Aqua at Lakeshore East

We chose this building in part because of the advertised amenities, but our experience with them has been consistently disappointing, as has the level of responsiveness from the management office.

• Sauna: To our knowledge, the sauna has been out of service since we moved in. It was working when we toured, but we have not seen it operational at any point since becoming residents.

• Hot tub cleanliness: On February 28, 2026, when we turned on the hot tub jets, a grimy black film resembling dirt... began accumulating in the water. I took photos that night. This raised serious concerns about maintenance and cleanliness.

• Swimming lessons representation and lack of response: During our tour in November 2025, a leasing staff member told us that free swimming lessons were offered to renters, and we confirmed this multiple times because it mattered to us. After moving in, an onsite swimming instructor told us that, to his understanding, there are no free lessons. When we mentioned we had been told the lessons were free and asked whether he had heard similar questions from other residents, he told us yes. We emailed management on February 19, 2026 asking how to enroll or to clarify whether free lessons are offered, and as of March 1, 2026, we have not received any response.

In other replies to reviews that complained about amenities, the rental office has said the hotel manages the amenities. But these amenities are still advertised as part of the residential experience, and from a resident perspective the distinction doesn’t change the outcome—we relied on what was represented when deciding where to live.

If these issues are resolved or clarified, I will update this review. For now, prospective residents should independently verify the current status and availability of any amenities that are important to them. Read More

The leasing office will tell you that only certain floors allow pets. However, if you are dishonest you can get away with a pet and not have to pay.

I’m on a floor that doesn’t allow pets. My loud neighbor has a barking dog. “And how can this be?” you ask. Well, after I asked why he’s allowed a barking dog, I found out (after contacting the office many times) that he has an “emotional support” dog. No proof needs to be provided.

So, bring your pets to any floor, lie to management because... they wont check and you won’t pay the pet fees. If you get caught, just claim the dog was a gift from a family member and is an emotional support animal. My loud neighbor gets away with it.

The office has no interest is supporting the honest tenants. Read More

Have been a resident for six years and enjoy everything about the place. Excellent downtown location, fantastic amenities, connected to the led way system and well managed. Add a local public/private park, a high-end Mariano's supermarket and restaurants and it has to be amongst the best locations in Chicago. High cost per square footage but includes basic cable, electricity, water and gas and all the pluses. Can't go wrong. Can look for availability through rental management company and... local condo owners. Read More

This is a very nice building, location is well suited for downtown work. Good value for money