Kimpton Gray Hotel Chicago, an IHG Hotel

Kimpton Gray Hotel Chicago, an IHG Hotel Overview

First Impressions

Walking into the Kimpton Gray Hotel Chicago, an IHG Hotel feels like stepping into a piece of Chicago’s architectural history — and honestly, that’s exactly what you’re doing. This four-star gem sits right in the Loop at 122 West Monroe, housed in what used to be the New York Life Insurance Building from 1894. The lobby still has those soaring ceilings and original details that make you pause and look up, but they’ve layered in this sophisticated, modern vibe that doesn’t feel stuffy at all.

Location That Actually Matters

You know what I love about this spot? You’re literally in the thick of everything without feeling overwhelmed by tourist chaos. The Art Institute is a quick walk, Millennium Park is right there, and you can easily hop on the L at any of the nearby stations. I mean, couples rate the location 9.3 out of 10 for good reason — you can walk to dinner in River North, catch a show in the Theater District, or just wander down to the lakefront when you need some air. The Loop can feel a bit corporate during the day, but evenings bring this great energy when office workers mix with theater-goers and hotel guests.

The Room Experience

Here’s where this place really shines — the beds are genuinely fantastic. I’m usually skeptical when hotels brag about their bedding, but guests consistently rave about getting amazing sleep here, and I get it. The room design strikes this perfect balance between Chicago industrial chic and actual comfort. Think exposed brick details, rich fabrics, and windows that frame the city in a way that makes you want to linger with your morning coffee. The bathrooms are spacious too, which honestly feels like a small miracle in downtown Chicago.

Dining and Amenities

The restaurant situation here is solid — they serve American breakfast that’s actually worth getting up for, not just continental pastries and sad coffee. What I really appreciate is that they have parking on-site, which anyone who’s driven in the Loop will tell you is basically gold. Sure, it’s not cheap, but when you’re dealing with Chicago street parking or trying to find a garage, having that option right at the hotel is pretty clutch. The fitness center and business facilities do their job without any fuss, and the staff genuinely seems to know the neighborhood well enough to point you toward hidden gems.

Why Guests Love It

This hotel gets an 8.7 rating because it delivers on the fundamentals while giving you that distinctly Chicago experience. It’s not trying to be flashy or over-the-top — instead, it’s confident in what it offers. You’re staying in a piece of the city’s history, sleeping incredibly well, and waking up in the heart of one of America’s great downtowns. The Kimpton touch means you get those thoughtful details (like the evening wine hour) without feeling like you’re paying for stuff you don’t want. For the price point and location, it just works.

Kimpton Gray Hotel Chicago, an IHG Hotel Accommodations

Reviews of Kimpton Gray Hotel Chicago, an IHG Hotel

• Fiona from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Excellent stay at the Kimpton. Staff were friendly. Free bike hire was simple and only a few mins cycle to the lake and the trails there. Loved the free tea and coffee station in the mornings. Room on the 11th floor was large, well equipped (great bathrobes for guests!) not too noisy and the bed was super comfy. I was able to check my bags after I checked out & collect later.

• Daquiri from United States (8/10)

  Beautiful inside and out.

• Melissa from United States (9/10)

  We had a very weird room with a giant column right I the center of the room. That was the only thing we didn’t like.

• Kathy from United States (9/10)

  Great location, comfy rooms, beds, staff was amazing!

• Maria from United States (9/10)

  The staff is super accommodating and the rooms are very quiet.

• Steven from United States (9/10)

  Great hotel with polite and helpful staff, on site bar and restaurant options, and spacious/cleanly rooms! Would recommend staying here for a weekend in Chicago!

• Yasmina from Canada (8/10)

  The hotel was very clean, the staff were very friendly, the location was amazing, the room was very spacious and comfortable.

• Melody from United States (9/10)

  it was in a spot next to good restaurants

• Craig from United States (9/10)

• Curran from United States (9/10)

  The room was very comfortable.

Facilities