Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore Inner Harbor by IHG

I spend around 200 nights a year in hotels as a pilot, so I've slept in plenty of beds. This one is easily among my top five for comfort. Jay at the front desk was just as memorable: one of the most welcoming and helpful people I've met at any hotel. Out of the thousands of staff members I've encountered, he's in my top 0.1%. He deserves recognition for that service.

The people here made my stay from January 24th through February 3rd especially memorable. At breakfast, brunch, lunch, happy hour, and dinner, the wait staff were hospitable and made sure the meals were filling and enjoyable. The food added a lot to the visit too. The front desk team greeted me with bright smiles, and I was happy to return that positive energy. The valet staff had my vehicle ready whenever I asked, whether I was heading into Baltimore or elsewhere around the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. Reception, dining, and valet service all showed the courtesy I expect as a guest. Compared with my many stays elsewhere, the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore Inner Harbor stands out. It's at the top of my recommendation list.

The little welcome card for me and my dog in the room was such a thoughtful touch, and the restaurant attached to the hotel was very accommodating about having my dog with me at dinner. We had a lovely meal without any hassle. I also loved the wine hour, especially the cheese and crackers. Everyone I met was warm and friendly, and the valet team made arriving and leaving easy. The room felt luxurious, with a very comfortable, chic bed that was like sinking into a cloud. I had lovely views of the surrounding buildings too. I had a great stay at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore and can't wait to come back. Highly recommend!

The first floor is beautiful, which is why I gave it two stars, but I wouldn't stay here again. When we arrived early, we were told we had a suite, and the staff member even mentioned the sleeper sofa. At 4:00, though, we were given a regular room. When I explained what we'd been told, they said I was mistaken. My wife heard it too, so that felt like they were calling us liars. A manager eventually moved us. The bathroom design is awful. The sliding door has big gaps along both sides, so sounds and smells carry through, and the half glass shower panel leaves part of the shower open. Water splashes onto the floor, and when I called several times for towels before 10:00pm, nobody answered. There were some unsavory people across the street, including one man peeing in the street as we walked back at 9:00pm.