For a record ninth consecutive year, Condé Nast Traveler readers crowned Chicago the 'Best Big City in the U.S.' in their 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, positioning Chicago as a premier destination, drawing those seeking world-class experiences and luxury offerings.
Chicago continues to rack up prestigious awards and expand its luxury offerings, but the increasing focus on high-end experiences could create a perception of exclusivity.
Based on Chicago's consistent accolades and expanding luxury market, the city is likely to further solidify its position as a global luxury travel hub, attracting high-spending visitors and driving continued investment in premium hospitality.
A Foundation of Culinary Excellence and Global Connectivity
Chicago's 20 Michelin-starred restaurants, recognized in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide, confirm its culinary excellence, according to Choose Chicago. O’Hare International Airport, ranked the world's busiest for aircraft movements in 2025 by Airports Council International, also reported by Choose Chicago, ensures robust global connectivity and accommodates a significant influx of luxury travelers.
Innovative Experiences and High-Quality Stays
Hotel Zachary offers the immersive “Ferris’s Day Off” package, inspired by Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, according to Choose Chicago. The Chicago Athletic Association, a 4.5-star Hyatt Hotel, also elevates the city’s offerings, as indicated by Expedia. These creative packages and high-rated properties demonstrate Chicago's commitment to evolving its luxury sector with unique, quality experiences, suggesting a strategic pivot to capture high-value travelers.
Scale and Scope of Premium Accommodations
The Chicago Athletic Association, a Hyatt Hotel, offers 240 rooms, as detailed by Expedia, confirming the city's capacity to host a large volume of luxury guests.
Ensuring Continued Traveler Satisfaction
The Chicago Athletic Association, a Hyatt Hotel, boasts an overall rating of 10.0 out of 10 for its 'Room, 1 King Bed, Roll-in Shower' from two reviews, reported by Expedia, ensuring continued high satisfaction among discerning travelers.
With its consistent 'Best Big City' accolades, 20 Michelin-starred restaurants, and competitive luxury hotel pricing like the Chicago Athletic Association's $286/night for May 10, 2026, Chicago appears poised to further cement its status as a premier global luxury travel hub, attracting high-spending visitors well into 2026.
