Where To Find Wellness In Downtown Chicago And On The Magnificent Mile
Metaphysical wellness with the New Moon Ritual, poolside, at The Waldorf Astoria Chicago The Waldorf Astoria Chicago
My grandmother was raised in Chicago, and I can always feel her spirit brush against me whenever I'm there. Chicago is my 'Second City'—second, that is, only to a lifelong love affair with New York. But I never knew there was so much wellness in downtown Chicago, in unique and expected ways.
On my last trip to the Windy City, I finally made it to the renowned Second City comedy club for the first time, and it was well worth a visit, which is no surprise! It was a perfect time to visit because as my grandmother used to say, 'Laughter is the best medicine.'
And nothing is more healing in these troubled times than a good laugh. That night, at Second City, I laughed until I cried. It felt so good that I actually (briefly!) considered a career in standup. I could go to improv school, why not? Ultimately, I decided to just park that idea on a quiet side of my brain for now.
But finding that quiet isn't easy these days, which is why it's so important to find your way to wellness, even for an hour or two. Wellness means so much more than massage or meditation, but either of those, of course, can be a great start. Also, booking a meal with a friend, or visiting an amazing art museum, such as The Art Institute of Chicago, even if you only have an hour. Wellness can be physical, emotional, spiritual, soulful, cultural–seeking out and experiencing joy and self-care is an incomparable respite from stress.
Whether you're in town for work or play, consider carving out a bit of time to relax and show yourself some love, Chicago-style. Here are a few premier places to catch a wellness respite.
Waldorf Astoria lap pool mikeriveraphoto.com
Waldorf Astoria Chicago
The Waldorf's front exterior, with its cobblestone drive and bright indigo awnings, conjures just a little bit of Paris in Chicago.
If you want to spend an afternoon, book a spa treatment which entitles you to access a sauna, jacuzzi, lap pool and fitness center. 'No cell phone' signs abound, and the Waldorf Astoria Spa is, indeed, intended for deep relaxation. Apres-treatment, the Relaxation Lounge is a perfect place to chill with a glass of complimentary champagne and chocolates. (Throughout the summer, from Thursday through Saturday, the Clicquot Courtyard, a partnership with Veuve Clicquot, is a lovely spot to enjoy a charcuterie board, a bit of bubbly and live music surrounded by a splash of Veuve yellow pillows and champagne flutes.)
For those who are spiritually or metaphysically inclined, book the monthly New Moon Ritual program. Starting with a crystal meditation, led by Chicago-based healer Effie Kalaitzidis, the program takes place over the full moon and features a host of seasonal self-care rituals linking astrology with exercises in self-reflection, followed by a Tarot-card reading.
Bring a friend and stay for dinner at the Brass Tack, an American brasserie and bar with a French inflection, great cocktails and a menu that includes classics that range from oysters, shrimp cocktail, Waldorf salad to striped bass, salmon, lamb chops, along with vegetarian and vegan dishes such as 'scallops' made from trumpet mushrooms and a salad sourced from local greens. Background jazz plays at a perfect volume: it's enjoyable, but guests can still carry on a conversation.
Chuan Spa Spirit Suite at the Langham Chicago The Langham Chicago Asian Inspired Wellness
The Langham Chicago
The Langham is a Michelin two-key property, so it's no surprise that the Asian-inspired Chuan Spa is a standout, a lovely spot that offers topnotch spa treatments.
The spa decor is modern and luxurious, and everything on offer is designed to be utterly relaxing. Plus, it is rich in additional amenities that make it a great place to while away an afternoon. Try the herbal sauna, Himalayan salt stone sauna, special experience shower, and heated relaxation lounge chairs before–and after–a treatment. The 67-foot pool is stunning, and relaxing in the hydro-vitality tub will melt stress away.
The Langham is conceived of as a resort in the city and has partnered with Harborside International Golf Center to provide guests with a round of golf (18 holes), lunch at Harborside's Restaurant, and more. The concierge will also book behind-the-scenes tours of The Art Institute, mixology classes, a private cinema for movie night, a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright's home and studio, an on-property jazz club, Chicago helicopter tour, and a private meet and greet with the penguins at The Shedd Aquarium.
Sneak out of your conference and explore the city on a complimentary electric bike, a partnership with Specialized x Pendry Chicago. Christian Horan Photography Water Wellness
Pendry Chicago
A younger, hipper sister to Montage International, its parent brand, the Pendry Chicago, in the beloved Art Deco Carbon & Carbide Building, is full of delightful surprises. The Bar Pendry is one of the coziest hangouts in Chicago and may just have the best burger in town. (Indulge in a house martini while you're at it, which comes with olives stuffed with caviar.) Discover Ventoux, a French brasserie and raw bar–with delicious breakfast pastries and coffee, and outdoor seating. High up on the 24th floor, Chateau Carbide, a rooftop cocktail bar surrounded by skyscrapers, is a great little hideaway.
Pendry Chicago has partnered with Aire Ancient Baths in the West Loop, where guests can relax and soak in a soothing atmospheric subterranean bath house. Soft lighting, eucalyptus-tinged steam, massage and a range of wellness offerings themed around water round out the uniquely relaxing experience. The hotel offers a printed Wellness Menu with a selection of equipment that can be rented on a 24-hour basis to ease in recovery. Wellness rentals include recovery jet boots, a wave roller, go mat, among many more, to be enjoyed in the comfort and privacy of your spacious room.
The Gold Lounge at Fairmont Chicago DANIEL KELLEGHAN Wellness with Intention
Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park
A hotel grande dame, the Fairmont Chicago is well loved by travelers who appreciate classic creature comforts and great service. The rooms are bright, spacious and comfortable, some with picture windows that frame Millennium Park, a pretty pocket park, and a slice of Lake Michigan. Fairmont Chicago is not new but it offers something that is, perhaps, better than spanking newness: it is tried and true, always warm and welcoming. The Gold Floor, essentially a hotel within the hotel, offers access to private check in, dedicated concierge service, daily breakfast, appetizers, desserts and a full honor bar. The hotel features a house car for short distances, which comes in handy.
At Toro, the Latin American restaurant and bar helmed by Chef Richard Sandoval, every night is a party, with dancers and live drumming. The theatrical ambiance features a range of delicious grilled meats, ceviche and aguachile, along with (literally) fiery drinks and desserts.
The entrance to the Fairmont Leaf Spa features the Wish Tree, a place to stop, set intentions and breathe in the unique spa scent of relaxation, recognizable to anyone who has ever been to a spa. A variety of special treatments and practices include candlelight sound bowl healing, guided meditation and intention setting class, lavender love massage (designed to open the heart chakra and calm the nervous system with essential oils, crystals and a tuning fork), mindful meditation massage and an Ayurvedic dosha detox body treatment, plus a full range of facials.
About Last Knife, the vibey restaurant at the Arlo Chicago, where fun special events build community. The Arlo Chicago Meditative Wellness
Arlo Chicago
The Arlo is a cozy hotel, and I don't mean that as a euphemism for small. Granted, the spaces are not large and there is not an endless menu of amenities. But it is all done very well–designed for comfort, ease and a laidback experience in the landmark 1916 Atlantic Bank Building.
Rooms are well-lit, stylish and comfortable, with windows that let in lots of natural light. Guests are greeted with fortune cookies in the room, and stamped postcards to send messages to friends and family. The restaurant, About Last Knife, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with a full bar that offers a Happy Hour (known here as 'Lucky Hour') from three to seven every weeknight (that's right, a four-hour Happy Hour!). Hearty dishes range from a signature French onion soup, to healthy food choices such as hummus, veggie burgers. The in-room wellness menu, in partnership with Alomoves, features a selection of classes that includes mindful meditation, sound bath, and yoga, with mats in the room, and guests can also access a free 30-day membership to Alomoves.
Located near Lake Michigan, the Arlo offers jogging paths, complimentary bike passes and nearby access to a stroll through Millennium Park. In the spirit of fostering community, there is bingo night, live jazz, and a Post-It sharing board where guests can leave messages during their stay.
The Art Institute of Chicago. Modern Wing Entrance and Modern Shop. The Art Institute of Chicago Cultural Wellness
The Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago doesn't have a lot of museums, but it's a clear case of quality over quantity, because Chicago museums are topnotch. When I feel anxious or stressed, it always helps me to wend my way to a museum. And The Art Institute of Chicago is one of my favorite art museums in the world, a great place to feel uplifted by wellness in downtown Chicago. Not to be overlooked, The Field Museum is Chicago's version of New York's American Museum of Natural History, and the star attraction is Sue, the T. Rex. Sue is physically the largest Tyrannosaurus rex specimen ever discovered. Gaze in awe!
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Forbes
an hour ago
- Forbes
The 7 Best Sneakers For Women, According To Our Editors
It's not only socially acceptable to wear a sneaker pretty much anywhere these days, it's a smart style choice. Today's sneakers are appropriate—and stylish enough—for work, travel, fitness and even weddings. To curate the best sneakers for women, we tapped into the vast experience of our fashion team—which spends hours researching, evaluating and testing shoes and considering the features that matter most. Our top picks include a slip-on that's dressy enough for the office, a cushioned pair for achy feet and a comfy fashion sneaker. The best sneakers for women are comfortable, they offer a good fit, they're stylish—and they can be ... More worn anywhere. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS While comfort is key, of course, the sneakers on our list are also practical and they have style longevity. Whether you're looking for a timless option to add to your collection (like the Adidas Stan Smiths) or a versatile and wildly popular pair for everyday (like On's Cloud 6), ahead you'll find all the best sneakers for women. Best Everyday Sneaker For Women: On Cloud 6 Best Comfortable Sneaker For Women: New Balance 327 Best Retro Sneaker For Women: Adidas Stan Smith Best Slip-On Sneaker For Women: Rothy's The Original Slip On Sneaker Best Cushioned Sneaker For Women: Hoka Clifton 10 Best Fashion Sneaker For Women: Veronica Beard Valentina Sneaker Best Dress Sneaker For Women: Quince Italian Suede Everyday Sneaker First released in 2014 and now on its sixth iteration, the On Cloud 6 is a universal favorite for comfort. It features air pockets built within the sole and Zero-Gravity CloudTec foam, which gives the shoe a lightweight, cushioned and springy feel. The latest version has a wider opening and a sockliner for an easy step-in experience—ideal for airports, if you have mobility issues, or if you just don't want to exert a ton of effort into putting your shoes on and off. These aren't built for serious running, but they're a great option for walking and they look polished enough for lots of workplaces. To note: These come with both elastic speed laces or traditional laces, depending on your preference. New Balance New Balance 327 While New Balance is beloved for plenty of its designs (we've featured the Fresh Foam X 880v14 in our list of best shoes for standing all day), their 327 has become a women's sneaker staple since its debut in 2020. With the vintage look of a 1970s running shoe, this style is lightweight and complements a variety of foot shapes well. I love this pair because I can tighten the laces around my narrower foot but they also offer room in the forefoot for my toes to spread out. Wear them when running shoes feel too casual, and pack them for travel when you'll be doing lots of walking. There are few sneaker styles as timeless as the Adidas Stan Smiths, which was first released in 1971. The minimalist leather design and durable rubber sole will ensure these stay in your rotation season after season. This pair comes in eight colors, from metallic silver to collegiate navy detailing at the heel, although we're partial to classic Kelly green. Rothy's Rothy's The Original Slip On Sneaker Rothy's shoes are consistently at the top of several of our shoe lists because of their sustainable construction (made from recycled plastic bottles), easy care, comfort and style versatility. They have a soft upper that flexes as you walk, a plush footbed and durable outsoles that can withstand lots of wear. When they get scuffed or stinky, you can just throw them in the washing machine. The Rothy's Original Slip On comes in 13 wearable colors that can be paired with everything from denim to sleek work pants. The Hoka Clifton 10 has crossover popularity with everyone from hardcore runners to podiatrists to fashion It girls. The springy outsole features comfortable rocker technology, which helps efficiently harness your gait and is especially good for those with limited ankle mobility. This style is made with breathable mesh and a gusseted tongue to enhance the shoe fit and prevent debris from sneaking its way in. The Hoka Clifton 10 comes in 11 colors, including everything from fun brights to more subdued neutrals. Veronica Beard Veronica Beard Valentina Sneaker While some fashion sneakers are showy, Veronica Beard's Valentinas are an exercise in subtle style greatness. The retro-inspired design offers a two-inch lift—think like a heel, but infinitely more comfortable—and soft suede and leather accents give these a luxe vibe. There are 11 colorways, although they sell out fast so the biggest challenge with this shoe is getting your hands on a pair. Quince's pieces are notoriously well made and affordable while also being stylish. This understated, low-top pair is made from soft Italian suede with a padded insole and cushioned arch. Wear it everywhere from off-site meetings to the boardroom to dinners out. There are so many great sneakers on the market that even our editors had a hard time choosing our favorites. The following pairs are more elevated than styles you'd sweat it out in at the gym, but they're just as comfortable. Shopbop Veja Campo Sneakers Popular with celebrities and fashion insiders alike, these Brazilian-made sneakers are crafted from soft leather and suede and come in a variety of colors—from neutrals to pastels to bold hues. They have a roomy toe box to accommodate toe splay, and the sustainable rubber outsole is sturdy and durable. Sometimes, a shoe becomes so popular that it loses its luster, but that's not the case with Adidas' Samba OG. While it was originally made for soccer players, it has become a fashion staple for basically… everyone. It features a low profile and durable gum sole, so these are wearable and they will last. Nordstrom Autry Medalist Low Sneaker Inspired by a 1980s tennis sneaker, this perforated toe design looks stylish paired with everything from dresses to denim, and it will give you endless style street cred. The only issue with these: finding them in your size. Bergdorf Goodman Golden Goose Superstar Low Top Golden Goose practically invented the fashion sneaker with its glamorous spin on low-cut basketball shoes. This style is made in Italy, distressed by hand, and it features glittery accents, making it a with dresses, skirts and other formal clothing. They are pricey, but those who love them swear that they're worth the investment—you'll reach for them so often that you'll get great cost per wear. Amazon Converse Chuck Taylor All Star If there's one sneaker that never seems to go out of style, it's Converse's Chuck Taylor All Stars. This classic comes in a variety of canvas colors, although we're partial to the white, black and grey simply because they're versatile neutrals—meaning, they go with a lot. Tuckernuck Tretorn Rawlins Sneakers Tretorn is a heritage brand that's been around since 1891, and its new spin on the classic canvas sneaker features an EcoOrtholite insole and a sturdy, stable heel. But what really sets them apart is the retro styling and the classic, crisp colorways. Amazon Vince Blair Slip On Sneaker For a sneaker that's sleek and convenient, Vince's best-selling Blair Slip On is a winner. Elastic gores ensure they slip on easily but also have a secure fit. Overall, this low-profile pair is comfortable and breaks in easily, but some say it runs wide. The Blair Slip On comes in smooth leather, suede or perforated leather that offers extra ventilation. At Forbes Vetted, our fashion team invests lots of time painstakingly researching, testing and reporting on footwear. When it comes to women's shoes, we have written about the most comfortable flats, the most comfortable heels and the most comfortable wedges, because everybody deserves to have ache-free feet in addition to stylish shoes. Forbes Vetted fashion and beauty writer Molly Calhoun reported and wrote this story. She has written about lifestyle topics for two decades and has covered the best slides for women, the best slip-on shoes and the best knee-high boots. She regularly taps a variety of stylists and podiatrists to determine key factors that impact sneaker style longevity, comfort and durability. She also shared firsthand insights on styles she has personally worn. Forbes Vetted deputy editor Jane Sung—who heads the fashion vertical—oversaw the editing of this story and gave input on her favorite sneaker styles. To determine the best sneakers for women, we considered editor recommendations, evaluated versatility and comfort, and selected pairs for different use cases. We began by looking at a wide variety of sneakers from well-known brands that are top rated for style and comfort before narrowing down our selections. We considered sneaker recommendations from our editors, and Calhoun and Sung also included personal insights. We took color options, size availability, fit, comfort and value into account. We included women's sneakers for a variety of use cases and budgets, including a slip-on style, dress sneaker and an extra cushioned pair. We evaluated hundreds of user reviews so we could add context on factors such as fit and durability. What To Look For In The Best Sneakers For Women Wearability Sneakers run the gamut from functional to fashion-forward, so you'll want to think about what works for your lifestyle—where you'll be wearing your sneakers and what you'll be wearing them with. The reality is, most of us don't have the real estate or budget for 10 different pairs of sneakers. Neutral colors will get you the most mileage because they will go with the most outfits. For an easy-on, easy-off pair, the On Cloud 6 has bungee speed laces and is versatile style-wise. If you're looking for a slip-on pair that works for everyday but is also formal enough for the office, you may want to try Rothy's The Original Slip On Sneaker. For a plush pair that can accommodate long days on your feet, the Hoka Clifton 10 is a great choice. Fit Sneakers are only comfortable if they offer a great fit, so it's a good idea to consult user reviews if you have a foot that can be hard to accommodate. Lace-up pairs typically offer the best fit because adjustable lacing offers security and stability while walking. Slip on sneakers—like the On Cloud 6—offer comfort and convenience. If you're thinking for something with a wider toe box, we like the New Balance 327. If you have wide feet, many reviewers say the Vince Blair Slip On is a good choice. Support If you'll be doing lots of walking—or you want a sneaker that'll give feet a break from uncomfortable heels—cushion and arch support are a good idea. When it comes to plush cushioning, the Hoka Clifton 10 is at the top of our list. The On Cloud 6 is beloved for its springy feel, too. But some fashion sneakers also offer a supportive wear experience, like the New Balance 327 and Veronica Beard's Valentina Sneaker. What Is The Best Brand Of Women's Sneakers? There are lots of great women's sneaker brands, but the On Cloud 6 is our pick for the best women's sneaker overall, for its comfort and style versatility. For a dressy (and budget friendly) pair, we recommend Quince's Italian Suede Everyday Sneaker. For cushioning, we like the Hoka Clifton 10. And if you're looking for something with a retro feel, we like Adidas' Stan Smith, a vintage classic. What Are The Most Comfortable Women's Sneakers? Sneaker comfort is a little different for everyone because it can depend on your foot shape, but in general, cushioning is key. Our pick for the best cushioned sneaker for women is the Hoka Clifton 10. For overall comfort—and style—we recommend the New Balance 327, which has a stable heel, it can be adjusted through the midfoot, and it has a wide forefoot that allows toes room to splay. What Is The Best Women's Sneaker For Being On Your Feet All Day? Lots of walking and standing can take its toll on your feet, joints and back. If you'll be doing lots of standing, you'll want arch support, cushion to absorb impact on joints and a breathable upper to allow feet to breathe. The Hoka Clifton 10 checks all the boxes.
Wall Street Journal
2 hours ago
- Wall Street Journal
Is That Hotel Too Young for You?
The moment I realized it's possible to age out of a hotel scene came at 2:03 a.m. on a Friday night. My husband and I had splurged on a stay at a posh hotel in New York's SoHo neighborhood. A few hours after going to bed, I was jolted awake by a pounding bass vibrating up from the establishment's chic second-floor lounge. Though we'd enjoyed a quiet cocktail there earlier in the evening, it was a public nightclub now. Two floors above the fray, I felt like I was at the party against my will—and that the hotel was to blame. Your lodging actually can be too young—or too mature or too family-focused—for you. Many hotels target hyperspecific customers, and they will tailor everything from decor to guest amenities accordingly. So how do you avoid an unintentional nightclub suite, or a similar mishap? Deep research.
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Jake Paul drops $39 million on Georgia's iconic Southlands ranch
Professional boxer, social media influencer and content creator Jake Paul has bought the sprawling Southlands property just south of Bainbridge, Georgia, for $39 million. Paul, during an interview on the "The Iced Coffee Hour" podcast in mid-June, said he's been wanting to purchase a ranch for the last 15 years, according to 'It's kind of been my dream and why I work so hard," said Paul. He added the 5,746-acre estate was '… a little bit bigger than what I wanted, but when I got there, I was like, 'I have to buy this.' ' Paul, 28, is known for his brash commentary on YouTube and other social media platforms and co-stars alongside his brother, Logan Paul, in "Paul American," a reality show that premiered in March 2025 and offers a peek into their family life outside of the boxing and wrestling ring. Logan Paul is a pro wrestler and social media maven. More celebrity real estate: NBA star Kevin Durant's custom Oklahoma City townhome hits the market at $35 In November 2024, Paul went head-to-head against former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, 58, and defeated the veteran fighter in a unanimous decision. He was initially slated to receive $40 million for beating the retired boxer. The 5,653-acre property surrounds the eastern shore of Lake Seminole, just above the Florida panhandle, and was listed in October 2024 for $42.5 million. It features a "sport huntsman's paradise with an abundance of bobwhite wild quail, turkey and whitetail deer. It also includes a 20-acre fishing pond and a 30-acre duck pond," as previously reported in the Tallahassee Democrat, part of the USA TODAY Network. Jon Kohler, an expert in large plantation properties in the southeast, said there are few investments that can build "long-term wealth like owning a property such as Southlands." "While we can see the financial appreciation, what only the seller can measure is the immense intrinsic value – the lifestyle, the experiences, the memories. That's the most important kind of wealth. And that's what Southlands will create for Jake, his family, and his friends," said Kohler, in a statement. In a Facebook post announcing the purchase, Kohler described the property as "one of America's most iconic sporting properties." "From its roots with Herbert Stoddard, a legacy dating back to 1937, to its years as International Paper's flagship property, Southlands has long been a crown jewel of American land stewardship – and with Jake Paul's passion and commitment to conservation, its future has never been brighter," the post said. Contact Economic Development Reporter TaMaryn Waters at tlwaters@ and follow @TaMarynWaters on X. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Jake Paul drops $39 million on Georgia's iconic Southlands ranch
