RIU Hotels & Resorts has reached another significant milestone in its international expansion with the opening of the Riu Plaza Chicago. This new four-star establishment, featuring 390 rooms, is strategically located in the heart of Chicago’s renowned Magnificent Mile shopping district. Starting in September, guests and visitors will be able to enjoy panoramic views of the city from the 27th floor of the building at the hotel’s bar, The Rooftop.
The opening of this newly built skyscraper not only positions the RIU brand in a capital city with one of the most competitive real estate markets in the world but also represents a significant step in consolidating the chain’s presence in the United States. The Riu Plaza Chicago is the fifth RIU Plaza establishment to open in the country, highlighting the brand’s commitment to expanding its footprint in North America.
Located at 150 East Ontario Street, the hotel enjoys a prime position in a city known for having one of the best public transport systems in the United States. This makes it easy for residents and visitors to explore Chicago’s landmarks, making the hotel ideal for both business travelers and leisure tourists. The Magnificent Mile is known for its upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options, ensuring that guests of the Riu Plaza Chicago are in the midst of the action.
Inspired by the Chicago School architectural style, the 28-story building offers modern facilities and a wide range of services designed to cater to a diverse clientele. These include a fully equipped gym for fitness enthusiasts, a restaurant offering a variety of culinary delights, and a lobby bar for those looking to relax with a drink. The hotel’s star attraction, however, is its bar on the 27th floor — The Rooftop — which will open in September. Guests and visitors can enjoy the bar service and various food options while taking in magnificent panoramic views of the city from the glass balcony. This feature is reminiscent of the iconic attraction at the hotel Riu Plaza España in Madrid, promising a similar breathtaking experience.
The lobby of the Riu Plaza Chicago features an imposing mural that runs along the frieze, reminiscent of the iconic Art Deco style. It combines noble materials such as marble and wood with recycled elements, creating a harmonious blend of elegance and sustainability. The 390 rooms at the Riu Plaza Chicago offer modern and comfortable spaces where natural light flows from the sleeping area into the bathroom, characterized by light furniture with iron structures and walk-in showers. Each room is designed with the comfort and convenience of guests in mind, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
The hotel’s welcoming restaurant offers a full buffet breakfast included in the room rate, with a classic interior and abundant natural light creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, the lobby bar provides a Grab&Go service with a wide selection of snacks, coffees, and beverages, perfect for guests exploring nearby attractions. Some of these attractions include The Bean, an iconic stainless steel sculpture in Millennium Park, Willis Tower with its breathtaking city views, and Navy Pier, a historic pier featuring entertainment venues, restaurants, and panoramic views of Lake Michigan.
RIU Plaza hotels are known for their prime locations in the heart of major cities around the world. The Riu Plaza Chicago marks the Spanish chain’s first hotel in the windy city. This addition to the RIU portfolio underscores the brand’s strategy of situating its hotels in key urban centers, providing guests with easy access to city highlights and business hubs.
RIU now operates a total of eleven city hotels in locations including Panama, Guadalajara, Madrid, Berlin, London, Dublin, Miami, San Francisco, two in New York, and the newest addition in Chicago. The chain has plans to further expand its range of RIU Plaza hotels with an establishment in Toronto, currently under construction, and a third hotel in New York, where it recently acquired a plot on Broadway. This expansion reflects RIU’s ambition to offer high-quality accommodations and exceptional service in some of the world’s most vibrant cities.
The Riu Plaza Chicago is not just another hotel; it is a symbol of RIU’s dedication to providing luxurious and convenient accommodations in prime urban locations. With its strategic positioning, modern amenities, and commitment to guest satisfaction, the Riu Plaza Chicago is set to become a preferred choice for travelers seeking the best of what Chicago has to offer. Whether for business or leisure, guests at the Riu Plaza Chicago can expect a memorable stay that combines comfort, style, and the unparalleled excitement of one of the United States’ most dynamic cities.
