Kimpton Gray Hotel Chicago

We did stayed here as a quick anniversary getaway, and we had such an amazing time, starting with the check in that was so smooth and Andrew was so amazing , I’d say that he went beyond the extra mile with the Anniversary amenity that we weren’t expecting, we also had lunch at Fillmore , and our server was so nice , I can’t recall her name right now, but she was outstanding, besides that I laughed at a little awkward sign that was hanging over the wall In the bathroom… I will definitely stay there again

Nice hotel in refurbished older building, layout of room a bit wonky but still good. Arrived at noon before 3 pm check in, inquired if possible to get checked in early. Was advised that there were rooms available, however, would have to pay an early check in fee of $27. No, welcome iced water they advertise. Another day room was not cleaned. Not the end of the world, but when you pay $1500 for 3 days, I would expect a bit more from the hotel.

The Kimpton I usually stayed at in Chicago has closed. I have stayed at The Gray --years ago, too. This is a big hotel in the Loop -- great location -- but a very impersonal experience. It's like staying in an office building where you pretty much only see the security person at the front door (who was very nice). I should say that the women who checked me in were friendly and helpful, too. The man who checked me out was pleasant but neither asked how my stay was, nor seemed to understand when I offered my opinion (i.e. the room was less than I expected for a Kimpton). The rooms are okay, but in need of a refresh. The carpet in my room was tatty in places, and looked like it could use a deep cleaning. Some of the furniture and walls were more than a banged up. All and all an average stay, but disappointing as a longtime IHG member. Please excuse typos.

This was my first time staying at a Kimpton. This hotel was quite large. The doors to enter from the street are very heavy. Occasionally someone was there and opened them for you, but mostly not. For the high amenity fee they tack on, they should really hire a full time doorman. The building is beautiful. TONS of elevators so you never have to wait to go up or down. This is typically an issue at many other city hotels but definitely not at Kimpton Gray. The staff is very nice. They seem to have A LOT of rooms but I typically only saw 2 front desk staff at a time. It got crowded there at times and if you needed something you’d have to wait a while either in line or on hold on the phone. I didn’t see a chat option on the app as is typical with many other hotel chains. The coffee in the morning is STRONG! But good. They have ice water but it is infused with lemon or for most days it was orange which gave it a yucky aftertaste. You can go into the Fitness Center and fill your water bottle with regular cold water from the cooler in there. I had a drink at the rooftop bar. It was fine. I tried the “social” one night. The wine was junk. I’m not super picky. But I never went back. The person pouring it was very sweet though. For the high amenity fee, they should at least offer a good tasting, mid-grade wine! My first room smelled gross and also didn’t have the walk-in shower. I called the front desk and they showed me 2 different rooms and I was able to choose. Wound up in 1214. No view though. This hotel isn’t for you if you want a view! For a city hotel, it was amazingly quiet though. No blaring sirens and honking horns all night. Towels were decent. Linens were fine. I didn’t see anything particularly luxurious but they weren’t scratchy or anything. They DO NOT make the bed with a flat sheet. It’s just the down comforter wrapped and the “fitted” sheet. You’ll have to ask for an additional flat sheet and put it on yourself if you prefer one. I found the beds to be fairly uncomfortable (for me) and my friend wasn’t a huge fan either. They do put a foam AND feather pillows on the bed though so that is a small bonus. I did NOT use valet as it’s ridiculously expensive. Glad I didn’t as I saw a back up quite a bit at various times of the day. There are MANY garages in the area but not all are created equally! 55 East Monroe is just a 5 min walk down Monroe. Big spaces, clean, well lit, and SECURE. You can get a great deal using ParkWhiz (no in/out privileges!!). Also, I HIGHLY recommend using the Shoreline Sightseeing water taxi when it’s in season. The dock is a short walk from the hotel. Get an all day pass. It’s amazing. I paid a pretty high rate the time I went, lots of events in the city, but it was much cheaper than my usual spot. I’d go back if the rate was a bit more reasonable. It’s a good location. Near all the theaters, shopping, tons of restaurants. Decent service. Hopefully they’ll get better beds!

This is becoming my favorite, go-to hotel in Chicago. First, the location in the loop is perfect for work as well as getting out and walking to many of the attractions (Art Institute, Millenium Park, Mich Ave). Second, the blue from the airport is one block away so it is an easy and cheap commute. Third, the staff are helpful and ready to assist. Fourth, the daily happy hour in the lobby lounge is a perfect end to the work day and beginning to an evening of celebration. Fifth, my room, away from the elevator, is very quiet and comfortable.