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8.1

1,794 reviews

Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

221 North Columbus Drive, Chicago, 60601, Illinois, United States

Choose dates to view prices

Restaurant

Indoor swimming pool

Outdoor swimming pool

Business center

Free wifi

Room service

Fitness center

Air conditioning

Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

Experience the vibrant energy of Chicago from the luxurious Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, located at 221 North Columbus Drive. Just 3mi from the city center, this 4-star haven offers a perfect blend of rest and adventure amidst the Windy City’s iconic sights. With over 1,800 reviews, guests rave about its fantastic amenities—from sparkling indoor and outdoor pools to a state-of-the-art fitness center, all designed to keep your days as lively or relaxing as you wish. Start your stay with rates beginning at just $144, an affordable luxury for a memorable urban escape.

Step into a world of comfort with smart amenities like free Wi-Fi, room service, and air conditioning, making your stay seamless and enjoyable. Whether you're unwinding in a non-smoking room or celebrating a special event in the meeting facilities, this pet-friendly hotel ensures you and your furry friends are welcome (extra charges may apply). For moments of sunshine or tranquility, head to the sun deck, garden, or rooftop terrace, or take a dip in the outdoor pool for a perfect Chicago afternoon.

Venture beyond the hotel walls to explore the local flavor and excitement, or stay in and indulge at the on-site restaurant and bar. Accessibility is a priority here, with wheelchair-accessible upper floors, elevators, and kid-friendly options, including kids’ meals. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel offers a dynamic base to enjoy everything Chicago has to offer, all wrapped in stylish comfort and thoughtful amenities.

After a day of exploring Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods or catching a game at nearby Soldier Field, unwind with a visit to the hotel’s outdoor heated pool. It’s the perfect spot to cool off or soak up the sun during warmer months, offering stunning views to elevate your relaxation. For those who prefer keeping their fitness routine on track, the state-of-the-art fitness center is equipped with everything you need to stay energized without ever leaving the hotel.

When it’s time to refuel and socialize, head to FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar. This on-site restaurant serves up American and local cuisines in a family-friendly, modern ambiance, making it an ideal place for breakfast before a busy day or a leisurely dinner. Afterward, enjoy a handcrafted cocktail at the bar, unwind with some delicious bar bites, or simply savor the lively atmosphere. It's a culinary experience that complements your Chicago adventure perfectly.

For a taste of the city’s skyline, take advantage of the hotel’s rooftop terrace, garden, or sun deck, where you can soak in breathtaking views of the cityscape and Lake Michigan. Whether you’re catching the sunset or just enjoying a peaceful moment with your favorite beverage, these outdoor spaces add an extra layer of charm to your stay. Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel ensures every moment in Chicago is memorable, fun, and perfectly tailored to your relaxed or active mood.

Closest airports

Chicago Midway International Airport

9.4mi

Chicago O'Hare International Airport

16mi

Most popular amenities

Restaurant

Indoor swimming pool

Outdoor swimming pool

Business center

Free wifi

Room service

Fitness center

Air conditioning

Bar

Sun deck

Terrace

24-hour front desk

Non-smoking rooms

Wheelchair accessible

Beach chairs/Loungers

Elevator

Picnic area

Garden

Bathtub

View

Upper floors accessible by elevator

Rooms

Premium Corner King Room with Balcony and Park View - Non-Smoking in Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

Show 5 photos

Premium Corner, King Size, Park View, Balcony

1 King Size Bed

400 sqft

Minibar

Air conditioning

Tea/Coffee maker

+

More details

The spacious double room features air conditioning, a mini-bar, a tea and coffee maker and a TV with cable channels. The unit has 1 bed.

Queen Room with Two Queen Beds and Balcony - City View/Non-Smoking in Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

Show 4 photos

Room - 2 Queen, City View, Balcony

2 Queen Size Beds

400 sqft

Minibar

Air conditioning

Tea/Coffee maker

+

More details

The quadruple room offers air conditioning, a mini-bar, a tea and coffee maker and a TV with cable channels. The unit offers 2 beds.

King Room with City View - Disability Access/Non-Smoking in Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

Show 4 photos

King Room, Accessible, City View

1 King Size Bed

355 sqft

Bathtub

Minibar

Tea/Coffee maker

Shower

+

More details

The spacious double room features a mini-bar, a tea and coffee maker, a safe deposit box, as well as a TV. The unit has 1 bed.

Queen Room with Two Queen Beds and City View - Disability Access/Non-Smoking in Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

Show 4 photos

Room - 2 Queen, Accessible, City View

2 Queen Size Beds

400 sqft

Bathtub

Minibar

Air conditioning

Tea/Coffee maker

+

More details

The air-conditioned quadruple room provides a TV with cable channels, a mini-bar, a tea and coffee maker and heating. The unit offers 2 beds.

King Room with Balcony and City View - Non-Smoking in Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

Show 5 photos

King Room, City View, Balcony

1 King Size Bed

355 sqft

Minibar

Air conditioning

Tea/Coffee maker

+

More details

Ambassador King Suite with Park View - Non-Smoking in Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

Show 5 photos

Ambassador Suite, Park View

1 King Size Bed

560 sqft

Bathtub

Minibar

Air conditioning

Tea/Coffee maker

+

More details

Show 5 photos

Suite, King Size

1 King Size Bed

Free wifi

Minibar

Flat-screen TV

Refrigerator

+

More details

Queen Room with Two Queen Beds and City View - Non-Smoking in Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

Show 4 photos

Room - 2 Queen, City View

2 Queen Size Beds

400 sqft

Minibar

Air conditioning

Tea/Coffee maker

x4

+

x3

More details

King Room with City View - Non-Smoking in Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

Show 4 photos

King Room, City View

1 King Size Bed

355 sqft

Minibar

Air conditioning

Tea/Coffee maker

Shower

x4

+

x3

More details

Superior, 2 Queen Size Beds

2 Queen Size Beds

Non-smoking rooms

+

More details

The unit has 2 beds.

Show 2 photos

King Room

1 King Size Bed

350 sqft

Wifi

Refrigerator

x4

+

x3

More details

Show 2 photos

Room - 2 Queen

2 Queen Size Beds

400 sqft

Wifi

Refrigerator

x4

+

x3

More details

Guest reviews

8.1

1,794 reviews

Categories of assessments

Cleanliness

Comfort

Location

Facilities

Staff

Value for money

WiFi quality

Featured reviews:

🇨🇦

Abdul

9.1

July 2024

Hotel has a good jacuzzi, indoor and outdoor pool. I really like the gym, 3rd floor running track, and indoor basket ball half-court. Lobby gives an upscale look and its better than many 4 star hotels. The staff is friendly and helpful. The hotel is located in excellent spot and we can visit millennium park and river walk within 10 mins.

The following things were small hiccups which didn't impact our experience much but worth mentioning: - wifi was getting disconnected and could be a lot better. We had roaming on so it didn't matter much. - ice machine on 13th floor was not working for 4 days. - we called valet from room more than 30 mins before coming to the lobby, but he didn't not bring the car. It happened twice in our 5 days stay. However, the valet acted fast and brought the car in 5 mins once I mentioned that I called from the room.

🇺🇸

Larencia

9.1

May 2024

Convenient for local food and events. Walking distance of plenty restaurants and river walk navy pier etc

The rooms don’t have daily maids /housekeepers . To make your bed , do laundry and get clean towels daily. I had to keep asking everyday. Trash for 4 days no trash bags in the rooms. No microwaves in rooms and tubs or shower for the price but overall it was a beautiful room very clean polite staff just a bit pricey for what I got which was really nothing for $1,300 just the room no food or parking included . Parking $75 a day valet

🇺🇸

Kirk

9.1

July 2025

Location is fantastic next to the parks and easy walking distance to just about everything. Amenities are also great with a fantastic weight room in one of the nicest outdoor pool areas in all of Chicago. Rooms are not humongous, but they are comfortable.

It has been a couple of years since we stayed at Aqua. I did not recall that the rooms did not have refrigerators other than the mini bars that you cannot use for your personal stuff. We are quite disappointed when we came back from pizza the first night that we had no fridge to put the leftovers in. Seems like an odd mess and today’s day and age to not have a mini fridge.

🇺🇸

Cook

9.1

July 2025

Loved the outdoor seating on the 3rd level with the outdoor pool, hot tub, and walking track. The landscaping and furniture are lovely. There are various seating areas so you can find privacy or be available to meet new people. There was also a fire pit area which was nice. The view is amazing especially at night when all the lights come one.

The bed was ultra squeaky but comfortable. I would recommend that they fix the squeakiness. There is very little to dislike about this hotel. The staff and location are premiere.

🇨🇿

Luckylife11

8.2

May 2025

Great location, beautiful room, friendly staff who take care of the cars.

I accidentally booked the date one day earlier. I paid the full price for my mistake, which is fine. However, we had bad luck at the reception desk with a very unpleasant receptionist who was not interested in finding a solution. He couldn't help us with a new reservation. He was unhelpful, looked bored, and made it clear that he would like us to leave and not bother him. Fortunately, his colleague became available, and I asked him for help. He was very helpful, we explained the situation, and the problem was solved immediately.

🇺🇸

Sara

9.1

May 2025

The property is in an architecturally notable building with unusually shaped balconies that form rippled patterns over the sides of the building. We upgraded our room to one with a balcony so we could step outside and that was really worth the extra expense. The view was tremendous - night and day! Our room had a nice tub, separate shower and private WC toilet area. Bedding was white, crisp and comfortable. We had breakfast in the morning and it was excellent!

The lobby is very small, and each time we needed something at the front desk, we waited in line for at least 10 minutes each time to speak with someone at the desk. The hallways are not carpeted and so noise carries. People who were loud coming off the elevator were echoey and obnoxious late at night.

🇺🇸

Christina

9.1

January 2025

It is a quick walk to several tourist attractions, including Millenium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago. The building is beautiful, modern, and clean. The staff was helpful and polite. The room was a comfortable size for our family of two adults and two kids. We really enjoyed our stay here and plan to come back in the warmer weather to enjoy the outdoor pool!

There is no refrigerator or microwave in the room. However, there is a mini bar and snacks placed on top of the desk with a sensor so that you are charged if you take anything out. It felt like a sneaky way for them to make money, especially for guests with kids who might not understand the rules initially. We would have loved a space to keep leftover food and I think the mini bar should be replaced with an actual refrigerator.

🇺🇸

Tyler

10

July 2025

Everything that was offered was exceptional. Staff was friendly and very nice, views are incredible.. The windows are floor to ceiling all the way around the room, The room was also massive compared to most hotel rooms, in my opinion.. its a small apartment. Best hotel experience my wife and I have ever had, loved the balcony.. we will be back.

The only thing we didn't like was that there was no refrigerator or microwaves in the room.although when asked, ice was delivered to the room in a very timely manner. Other than that, everything was spectacular.

🇺🇸

S

10

January 2025

To be honest I don't think i have EVER recieved such hospitality from the two guest service employee's I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with. Jordan and Alex who had helped me during my significant other and I's stay was impeccable. To be able to recieve such an outstanding level of service from both of them on our extended stay let's me know not only did we make the right choice in where to stay, it encourages us to continue to visit not only the Aqua but other hotels by your company in all honesty. With traveling for work quite often it was a pleasure to be able to have such exceptional service on one of the very few personal trips we had the ability to take. Thank you for having BOTH of them as members of your staff. It's indisputable they set a extremely high standard for service!

It was delightful, we have 0 complaints

🇬🇧

Laura

8.2

August 2024

Location is great, really central - we were able to walk to most places easily. Facilities - swimming pool, outside area, including pool, bbq, various seating areas and running track, as well as gym, sauna etc. are brilliant and ideal for families. You really feel on top of the world on a sunny summer's morning in the outdoor pool surrounded by all sky scrapers.

Bathroom set up was strange, there is no privacy really as the door does not shut properly (sliding door). Also, you are not allowed to use the mini fridge unless you get a permission, that was somewhat strange and just unnecessary.

Points of Interest Around Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

Attractions

Chicago Pedway

0.3mi

Marquette Building

0.7mi

Harold Washington Library Center (Chicago Public Library)

0.8mi

Chicago Board of Trade Building

0.9mi

Chicago River

0.9mi

Shedd Aquarium

1.3mi

Prairie Avenue Historic District

2.3mi

Chicago Chinatown

2.4mi

United Center

2.8mi

Chicago Loop

3.3mi

Trickery

4.3mi

Wrigley Field

4.6mi

Wrigleyville

4.7mi

University of Chicago

6.8mi

Jackson Park

7.2mi

Restaurants

FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar

Cuisines

  • American
  • Local

Ambiances

  • Family Friendly
  • Modern

Pools

Location

  • Indoor

Features

  • Heated

Availability

  • All season

Location

  • Outdoor

Features

  • Heated

Age restrictions

  • Adults only

Availability

  • Seasonal

Amenities of Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

Restaurant

Indoor swimming pool

Outdoor swimming pool

Business center

Free wifi

Room service

Fitness center

Air conditioning

Bar

Sun deck

Terrace

24-hour front desk

Non-smoking rooms

Wheelchair accessible

Beach chairs/Loungers

Elevator

Picnic area

Garden

Bathtub

View

Upper floors accessible by elevator

Stay rules - Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

  • Check-in / Check-out

  • Pets

  • Internet

  • Age restrictions

  • Parking

  • Children and beds

  • Cards accepted at this property