Chicago Core Tour – Amenities & Access

Chicago brought the contrast again—this time in luxury vs. location.

My first stop was Reform Pilates, and wow—this place is a full experience. From the moment you walk in, you feel like you’ve entered a high-end wellness club. The locker rooms were stunning, the showers immaculate, and the product selection felt curated just for me, my favorite dry shampoo was well stocked! It’s a Pilates studio that understands the power of thoughtful details. The class itself was exactly what I needed: structured, challenging, and taught by an instructor who clearly knew their stuff.

Reform also offers self-guided reformer sessions, which is such an interesting concept. You can book a time and follow pre-programmed workouts on a screen at your own pace. I love the flexibility this gives you—especially if you’re an experienced mover—but I found my attention drifting. I’m the kind of Pilates person who thrives under live, instructor-led cues. Still, I love that this option exists for travelers or locals who need to squeeze in a session on their own time.

Next, I visited Pilatesville, perfectly located in Streeterville. It’s easy to pop in before or after exploring the city, which I loved. The studio is well-appointed with top-quality equipment and an inviting atmosphere. I joined a beginner class, which meant the pace was dialed back, but I could tell the instruction was solid, and the studio would definitely offer a more challenging experience at the next level. I’d come back here in a heartbeat for an intermediate or advanced class.

Chicago’s Pilates scene balances luxe experiences and practical spaces. You just have to know what kind of core work you’re craving that day.