Client Happenings: Turn Up the AC! New Lifestyle Hotel Opens in Chicago

There’s a new trend in the hotel industry…Known as “lifestyle brands” these new hotels are hoping to appeal to the “lifestyle” of a new generation of travelers. Of course, each hotel is unique in their own way, but they all seem to have certain common characteristics: all hotels offer high-tech features, reasonable rates, locally inspired amenities and grab-and-go options for the “on-the-go” traveler.

We recently started working with one such hotel: AC Hotel Chicago. In case you’re not familiar with the brand, AC Hotel by Marriott is a design-led hotel, inspired by the fashion houses of Milan that blends European style and simple lines to create a comfortable atmosphere for guests.

The AC Hotel Chicago Downtown opened in the heart of Chicago’s River North neighborhood this past May. Originating in Spain from renowned hotelier Antonio Catalan, the hotel celebrates the beauty of classic modern design with its European soul and Spanish roots. The result is elegant yet unpretentious style, innovative beverage & food programming and locally inspired experiences for both guests and locals.

One thing that sets the hotel apart from the rest is the innovative beverage and food program. For a fun twist on the traditional hotel bar, the AC Lounge includes craft beers (Revolution, anyone?), on-tap wines, hand-crafted cocktails and a selection of small ‘tapas-style’ plates served by city-savvy bartenders. Acting as both a mixologist and concierge, these beverage experts (dubbed “Barcierges,” get it?) connect AC guests to the pulse of Chicago with their insider tips and recommendations on the local area.

The Chicago location is AC Hotels’ first location in Illinois and second property in the Midwest. With a growing portfolio of more than 50 hotels expected to open in the next few years, we will certainly be seeing a lot more from this hotel chain in the near future!

- Morgan Bellock, Group Director

Photo credit: AC Hotels Chicago Downtown