Gwen’s Favorite Things: Moments in Bloom

Gwen’s Favorite Things is our way of bringing the year to life at The Gwen. We don’t just host experiences, we stage moments. Inspired by Gwen Lux’s mastery of form, light, and movement, the year unfolds as a narrative shaped by the seasons, the city, and the ways people come together. Each chapter celebrates a different feeling, a different rhythm, and a different way to experience the hotel.

From April through June 2026, Moments in Bloom marks a new chapter at The Gwen, where the arrival of spring invites connection, celebration, and a return to the outdoors. With the terrace reopening, florals in full expression, and the city reawakening, this season is all about shared experiences, effortless elegance, and the joy of coming together again.

Moments in Bloom Tipsy Tea

Moments in Bloom transforms The Gwen’s beloved Tipsy Tea into a celebration of springtime elegance, available April through June. Delight in fragrant botanical teas, artfully mixed floral-inspired cocktails, and delicately crafted bites designed to reflect the vibrancy of the city in bloom. Rooted in creativity and connection, this experience captures the fresh energy and refined charm that define The Gwen in spring.

Cocktail with Chicago skyline view for Terrace & Tunes at The Gwen Hotel

Thursday Terrace & Tunes

Elevate your Thursday evenings at Upstairs at The Gwen with Terrace & Tunes, where the vibrant pulse of live DJ beats, expertly crafted cocktails, tantalizing seasonal menus, and breathtaking panoramic skyline views await.

tipsy tea

The Queen's Drag Tipsy Tea

Dearest Gentle Reader, please enjoy a most distinguished afternoon at The Gwen on Saturday, June 6 at 12:30pm, where refinement and revelry meet in perfect harmony. Guests are invited to arrive in their most exquisite attire, embracing the elegance and drama of the occasion, as fashion becomes part of the spectacle itself. Your ticket includes access to enchanting drag performances throughout the experience, one glass of bubbly upon arrival, one pot of Rishi tea, and an elegantly composed sweet and savory tea tower for your table. One exceptional guest will be crowned the “Diamond of the Season”, a celebration of standout style and presence.

Upstairs at The Gwen Terrace

See You Upstairs: Summer Terrace Party

Join us on Thursday, June 11, from 6PM to 8:30PM for an elevated rooftop experience at Upstairs at The Gwen where music, skyline, and summer energy come together. Enjoy passed hors d’oeuvres, unlimited frozen Lillet Rosé spritz and blue paloma, and a curated selection of Pernod Ricard wines. Experience live DJ beats, a custom scent bar, and a live cityscape painting with raffle, then get your fortune read by Jennifer Billock, the world’s only professional tyromancer, who interprets patterns in cheese through her signature “Witch Kraft” readings.

Glamping

Glamping

The Gwen offers the city’s first urban glamping experience on the private terrace of the Gwen Lux Suite, perched on the 16th floor of the landmark McGraw-Hill building. With over 1,000 square feet of open-air space and sweeping Michigan Avenue views, this exclusive stay invites guests to spend the night under the stars in a multi-bedroom suite with a glamping tent, complete with a welcome amenity, s’mores fondue turndown, VIP services, and round-trip airport transportation. Available May through September 30.

Little Lux Campers

Little Lux Campers

Let the adventure begin with Little Luxe Campers, where luxury meets imagination in a glamping experience curated just for families. Special amenities include a welcome gift, VIP guest services, round-trip airport transportation, classic board games with sweet treats, a s’mores fondue turndown, and a gift card to Lola + The Boys, located in The Shops at North Bridge. Available May through September 30.