View Vibrant Downtown Chicago While Relaxing In One Of America's Most Luxurious Hotel Pools

There's something incredible about climbing to a high point in a big city and gazing out over the skyscrapers, streets dotted with tiny cars, and other structures that come to life in an urban setting. When visiting "The Windy City," many travelers flock to a few famous yet oh-so-crowded vantage points. However, as any seasoned traveler knows, it's more enjoyable to view Chicago's skyline from an underrated destination instead of a tourist trap that everyone visits. 

Situated in The Magnificent Mile, The Peninsula Chicago boasts a half-Olympic-sized pool on the 19th floor with incredible views of the bustling downtown and a glimpse of Lake Michigan. Even better, this peaceful oasis is indoors, so you can enjoy city views through the 20-foot floor-to-ceiling windows during the freezing winter months. Potted palms and turquoise accents create a luxurious feel as guests enjoy the heated pool, sun terrace, and spacious hot tub. The gym, steam room, and spa are also on this level or one floor above to round out a thoroughly relaxing day.

While there are many things you can skip on your next trip to Chicago, if you're a luxury traveler or celebrating a special occasion, The Peninsula Chicago and its stunning pool can't be missed. As one of the premier five-star hotels in Chicago, it has 339 guestrooms and suites, plus the ultra-luxurious Water Tower and Lake Suites. Although the Chicago location first opened in 2001, the hotel is part of the Peninsula legacy, dating back to 1866.

While the pool at The Peninsula Chicago is available to all hotel guests, non-guests can also enjoy the swimming pool (plus the gym and sun terrace) if you book two or more hours of service at The Peninsula Spa & Wellness Center. At this 15,000-square-foot facility, choose from lavish, personalized treatments, ranging from massages to facials to body treatments. In addition, members of The Peninsula Spa can also access the pool.

If you're staying at the hotel, all you need to do is grab your pool essentials and head to the 19th floor. Here, you can get comfortable on one of the dark wood sun loungers inside or soak up the sun on the outdoor patio. For a light meal or a refreshing drink, ask the attendant about the poolside dining menu.

We recommend checking with the front desk about the pool hours upon arrival. However, it's worth noting that there are family hours twice a day, which allow families with children to attend the pool for a one-hour chunk of time. This also means that couples or adults without children can swim and enjoy the peace without interruptions during specific hours. 

The 25-meter-long pool offers stunning views, but there are so many other things to do at The Peninsula Chicago. Dine at upscale restaurants, including Z Bar, Pierrot Gourmet, or Shanghai Terrace. Serving Cantonese dishes, dim sum, and Asian-inspired cuisine, Shanghai Terrace provides garden seating on the outdoor patio or tables in the dimly lit dining room. Choose from menu highlights, including the Peking Duck. 

After a day at the pool or an afternoon treatment at the spa, book a luxury excursion through The Peninsula Academy. This highly customizable service allows guests to craft tours to their exact specifications, ranging from a private yacht experience on the Lady Grebe along the Chicago River to guided jaunts through historic neighborhoods. Keep in mind that advance booking through The Peninsula Chicago's website is essential to secure these experiences. 

Guests can also view curated exhibits throughout the hotel that rival any of the best museums to visit when traveling to Chicago. Showcasing the works of local and international artists, the rotating exhibits range from contemporary installations that cover entire walls to intricate paintings referencing an artist's heritage. Check with the hotel's concierge to learn about the latest offerings.