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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Streeterville

Unique relaxing spots

Made for those who seek out unconventional environments that offer a departure from the standard ways of unwinding.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Kiln Floating Sauna image 1
Kiln Floating Sauna image 2
Kiln Floating Sauna image 3
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Floating on calm water, the sauna offers a modern, Scandinavian design with stunning craftsmanship and direct lake access. The atmosphere is serene and intimate, surrounded by tall pines and quiet lake views. Aromatherapy and cold plunge features add to a luxurious, relaxing experience.

Aromatherapy adds a lovely touch to the relaxing atmosphere. The space feels unique and social, welcoming both friends and unrelated groups.

Direct access to the lake creates a unique sauna experience that stands out. The sauna is stunningly crafted and offers a restorative atmosphere perfect for couples, families, or friends.

People are saying

"The sauna and cold plunge into the lake was invigorating."

"Zoe's amazing hosting made this relaxing spot feel so special."

"The sauna and cold plunge experience is truly unique and invigorating."

Good to know

1

Kiln Floating Sauna is docked at Gordon Lodge.

2

Parking is convenient at Kiln Floating Sauna.

3

Two towels, electrolytes, and water are provided during the visit.

02
Le French Patisserie image 1

Elegant bakery with European decor and marble interiors creates a bright, luxurious atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a quiet escape with comfortable seating and soft music. Pastries and desserts stand out as artfully crafted and authentic.

Welcoming and comfortable atmosphere invites you to stay and relax. Clean space pairs well with a quick coffee or a sweet treat for a calm break.

Pastries showcase intricate layers and unique flavors. Furniture and decoration add a distinctive look to the space.

People are saying

"I thought the desserts were awesome and yummy."

"The pastries here are beautifully designed and offer unique flavor experiences."

"The pastries here are fresh, flavorful, and beautifully made."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $21 at Navy Pier, where the bakery is located.

2

Cash payments may offer discounts compared to credit card transactions.

3

The bakery often runs out of popular pastries early in the day.

03
the Albert image 1
American restaurant

Space combines vintage scholarly decor with modern touches and thousands of old books. Atmosphere feels vibrant and lively with live music from guitar duos or three-piece bands enhancing the mood. Guests enjoy outdoor seating and a full bar offering standout cocktails like the Smokey Old Fashioned.

Cozy and inviting ambiance creates a comfortable setting for meals. Attentive care from staff adds to the relaxed atmosphere during dinner.

Unique Italian dishes and steaks from the grill stand out here. The atmosphere and ambiance feel very unique and add to the overall experience.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here are seriously so good and delicious."

"The atmosphere here is so unique and artistic."

"The atmosphere here is cozy, inviting, and perfect for a relaxed vibe."

Good to know

1

Wednesdays feature live music, enhancing the dining experience.

2

Unlimited mimosas for two hours at $26 are available during brunch.

3

Happy hour offers three daily bar specials, perfect for budget-friendly drinks.

04
Chapel Street Cafรฉ and Restaurant image 1

Open, light-filled space blends stylish decor with Aussie sunshine vibe and welcoming neighborhood feel. Bar area features a massive TV and offers knowledgeable cocktail service with unique drinks. Indoor and outdoor seating create a relaxed atmosphere suited for casual meals and socializing.

Space offers both indoor and outdoor seating with a charming, relaxed vibe. Service moves at an easygoing pace, making it ideal for a laid-back meal or hanging out with friends.

A unique take on brunch shines through with first class silverware and fresh food that creates a truly distinctive dining experience.

People are saying

"I loved the Aussie-style brunch and excellent coffee."

"It's a cozy, unpretentious spot with a welcoming neighborhood feel."

"I experienced a unique take on brunch here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

Trivia night is every Monday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Expect a wait time of about 40 minutes during peak hours.

05
Paris Baguette image 1

Corporate bakery style blends with French cafรฉ decor and clean, fresh design. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and relaxed to enthusiastic and lively, suitable for breakfast or casual meetups. Seating includes indoor comfort and outdoor patio, with self-serve pastry selection adding convenience.

Quiet mornings create a relaxed atmosphere ideal for breakfast. Spaces support easy conversation and unwinding with friends.

A large selection of unique pastries, breads, and drinks stands out here. The cream donut offers an Asian-preferred taste rarely found in the US, and the service feels distinctive.

People are saying

"I found the selection of food and coffee amazing."

"I loved their unique pastries, especially the cream donut."

"The pastries here are fresh, delicious, and have a great variety."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for special cake orders.

2

The bakery is open until 8pm on weekdays.

3

Expect limited pastry selection later in the day.

06
CloudBar at 360 CHICAGO image 1

Bar atop a skyscraper offers 360-degree city views and a rooftop lounge with ample seating. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed during sunset to lively as night falls, with a mix of tourists and locals. Entry requires a ticket, and the setting includes unique attractions like a thrilling tilt experience.

Comfortable seating and a relaxed atmosphere make it easy to unwind. The spot offers great views of the skyline while enjoying a cocktail.

Each drink features unique ingredients and careful crafting. The experience pairs this with an amazing view for a truly unique atmosphere.

People are saying

"The city views from here are amazing and totally unbeatable."

"The views from this relaxing spot are absolutely stunning."

"The views here are unique and absolutely stunning."

Good to know

1

Entry to the bar requires a general admission ticket costing around $40.

2

Expect a 30-60 minute wait for seating during peak hours.

3

Drinks take about 15 minutes to arrive after ordering.

07
Sable at Navy Pier Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton image 1

Rooms offer spectacular lake and city views with a quiet, peaceful atmosphere enhanced by restricted pier access at night. The hotel includes varied dining options and convenient valet parking. Guests experience comfortable, well-appointed rooms with upscale amenities.

Rooftop space offers great vistas and a nice spot to relax or enjoy a drink. Rooms are spotlessly clean and beautifully designed, creating a comfortable and modern atmosphere away from outside chaos.

Offers a unique location on the pier with stunning views. Price matches most downtown hotels but delivers a very distinctive experience.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of the lake and skyline."

"The unique location on the pier offers stellar views of Lake Michigan."

"The views of the lake and city from this relaxing spot are fabulous."

Good to know

1

Fireworks occur on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10pm, visible from many rooms.

2

Check-in is at 4 pm; early check-in incurs a $50 fee.

3

Checkout is at 12 pm; late checkout may incur additional charges.

08
Apple Michigan Avenue image 1
Electronics store

Wide open space with riverfront views and unique architecture creates a stylish, welcoming atmosphere. The environment feels calm and organized despite some noise from the prime location. Comfortable seating and charging ports make it a relaxed spot to spend time.

Plenty of seating area invites you to unwind while enjoying a relaxing view of the river. The space feels like a chill coffee shop, making it easy to soak in demonstrations and relax.

A very large store with distinctive architecture along the river stands out. The servicescape features no cash registers or fixed point-of-sale systems, making it unique to the brand.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful view of the river from the glass."

"It's a great spot to sit and relax with a view."

"I found the architecture and building to be very unique."

Good to know

1

There is usually a fun event or activity happening at the store.

2

The store offers training for devices, which can be helpful for new users.

3

Reservations are recommended for tech support appointments at the Genius Bar.

09
Palm Court image 1
Restaurant

Elegant decor centers around a large fountain, creating a grand atmosphere enhanced by a live harpist playing throughout. The space feels overcrowded with tightly packed tables, contributing to a bustling energy. Guests often add champagne to their tea, complementing the refined setting.

A calm, laid back atmosphere invites slow, relaxing moments filled with conversation and laughter. Women's bathrooms offer a unique retreat with beautiful couches and private stalls featuring their own sinks and benches for extra comfort.

Offering a second round of one dish shows a unique Midwestern touch. Having tea at The Drake adds a fun and distinctive experience.

People are saying

"The tea options are incredible, with delicious cakes and crumpets."

"The live harp music and elegant decor make tea here truly unique."

"The live harp music here creates an outstanding atmosphere."

Good to know

1

High Tea is available year-round at Palm Court.

2

The Holiday Tea experience costs $77 per person.

3

Reservations are recommended for the High Tea service.

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Streeterville, Chicago

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