The Kimpton Gray, nestled in the heart of Chicago’s bustling Loop district, seamlessly blends historic charm with modern sophistication. Housed in a striking building dating back to the early 1900s, the hotel is a must-stay location when taking a trip to the windy city. LLM contributor Megan Lawton checked in to find out more.
Hotel
Upon entering, you are welcomed into a chic lobby adorned with bold artwork and plush furnishings, setting the tone for a luxurious stay. If the interior doesn’t make you feel welcome, the complimentary station of refreshments will – when we checked in, we were offered wine and by the following morning, a selection of coffees and syrups.
For animal lovers, this hotel is an obvious choice. Here, furry friends are welcomed with goodies from a dedicated treat stand upon arrival. Treats aside, the hotel building is full of character and boasts spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows where you can take in stunning views of Chicago’s downtown streets. Though, with a rooftop bar, restaurant, separate cocktail bar and fitness centre, there’s little reason for you to leave.
Room
Stylishly designed with smart furnishings, plush bedding, and a soothing colour palette; our suite was the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring the city. We checked in around dusk, but thanks to the grand windows, the room was bright and glowing as the sun set. At 345-495 square feet, the room is spacious and comfortably fits a workspace and lounge area, as well as ample storage.
The bathroom added to this relaxing feeling, offering a deep free-standing bathtub and walk in shower. The room is lined with bright Mediterranean tiles, stocked with luxurious lotions, as well as soft, fluffy towels. Getting ready here felt like a treat.
Despite overlooking one of Chicago’s busiest streets, the suite was silent allowing us to get a peaceful night’s sleep in our most comfortable king-size bed. In the morning, we enjoyed a Nespresso coffee in bed, while watching the city’s streets come to life beneath us.
Food and drink
With an impressive restaurant and separate cocktail bar, the Kimpton Gray offers the full experience. On the rooftop of the hotel sits Boleo, a South American eatery with knockout views of the Chicago skyline. It’s here that the restaurant’s friendly team talked us through the enticing menu, with a range of ceviches and empanadas on offer.
For starters, I tried the Ceviche Mixto, blended marinated shrimp and tuna, drizzled in zesty dressing. It was light and moreish and complemented our sweet and tart pisco sours beautifully. For mains, I’d highly recommend the fire roasted salmon dish, served with lime rice and mango salsa, as well as the crispy pork belly, which comes with a generous side of avocado salsa and pickled red onions.
Thirteen floors down from Boleo is Vol. 39, an elegant cocktail bar, which transports guests back to mid-century Chicago, with its dark panelled walls, leather armchairs and marble tables. After careful consideration of the eclectic cocktail menu, we decided to keep it classic and go with a spiced margarita and negroni. The negroni was smooth and bitter whilst the margarita perfectly balanced the flavours of zest, salt and spice.
To do
In the heart of the Loop, the Kimpton Gray is surrounded by culture, fine dining, and entertainment. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the hotel’s close proximity to the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, it boasts notable paintings including American Gothic by Grant Wood and The Old Guitarist by Pablo Picasso.
Additionally, the nearby Millennium Park is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy outdoor concerts, art installations, and the famous Cloud sculpture (but you might know it as the bean). During our stay at the Kimpton Gray, the local philharmonic orchestra were rehearsing in the park, and we enjoyed a leisurely morning taking in their soul-stirring melodies in the late summer sun.
For those wanting to try a classic deep-dish pizza that Chicago is known for, Giordano’s is a short stroll away and offers loaded slices, stacked with cheesy goodness.
In a nutshell
The Kimpton Gray hotel is an ideal base for exploring Chicago. Whether you’re a foodie, late night cocktail bar aficionado or a lover of architecture, this hotel has something for everyone. Its grand, Art Deco interior; peaceful, quiet rooms; and friendly midwestern service has given me many reasons to return.
Factbox
Address: 122 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States
Phone: +1 312-750-9012
Website: grayhotelchicago.com
