The Buckingham Hotel

Keep this place a secret, it's fabulous. Built for visiting CEOs in the financial district, it has peaceful hallways, spacious rooms, and views to die for. It's in the Loop, quiet, and within walking distance of lots of places, from Union station to the art museum.

The room was spacious, the bed comfortable, and the view was great. The hotel is older and can be a maze to get into, which might also help people feel safer and more secure. There's an athletic club, a bit outdated, but still a nice feature. After booking, I saw an earlier review mentioning an unexplained charge, and then found a random charge on my own account. I couldn't reach anyone by phone to ask about it. I didn't park at the hotel, use anything in the mini fridge, or touch the wine, and I checked out on time, so I can't figure out what the charge was for. It also looks like there's a facility fee for an outdated property with few amenities. The front desk didn't mention it, and someone on the phone cheerfully said it's their version of a resort fee. The property isn't worth an extra $15, let alone $28. I wouldn't recommend staying here. You can spend your money elsewhere.

The views from the room were lovely, and breakfast was an easy, help-yourself continental spread. The location made getting around simple: the main train station, city lines, and metro were all walkable, as were Millennium Park, nearby galleries, and the Riverwalk. Getting upstairs takes a little figuring out the first time. The entrance is inside 425 financial building, then you take an elevator to the 39th floor and switch to another one for the 40th. The front desk staff were very helpful.

That view is unbeatable. This is a hidden gem and the nicest hotel I’ve stayed at in Chicago so far. I’m almost nervous to leave too good a review because I want this place to stay under the radar, lol.