LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton

Skyline Views From a Restored Landmark

★★★★★📍 The Loop / Riverfront$$$

LondonHouse Chicago stands on a prime corner of the river at Michigan Avenue, in a historic 1920s building that was restored and reopened as a Curio Collection hotel. Its position is hard to match: the Chicago Riverwalk is below, the Michigan Avenue bridge and the Wrigley Building are next door, and Millennium Park is a short walk south. It carries 4.5 stars.

The building's character is a big part of the appeal. The rooftop, with its distinctive dome and views across the river and the lake, is among the city's best-known places for a drink, and hotel guests benefit from being on site. The setting suits architecture lovers well, because many of the landmarks that appear on river cruises are visible or only steps away.

Rooms are designed to take advantage of the setting, with river, lake or city views depending on the floor and side, so it is worth asking for a high floor facing the water when you book. Expect a contemporary hotel with a hint of the building's era, rather than a purely historic interior.

The Riverwalk, the Chicago Architecture Center boats and Millennium Park make this a very walkable base. The Loop is quieter in the evening than River North, but the hotel's own rooftop and the restaurants nearby provide a good night out without a trip. For transport, several L lines and Metra Millennium Station are close.

LondonHouse suits couples, architecture fans and first-time visitors who want skyline views and a sense of place. Rooms on lower floors can be less dramatic, and the rooftop can be busy on weekends, so plan your visits accordingly. Prices, as everywhere in downtown Chicago, climb sharply during peak summer weekends and major events, so book early and compare rates.

A few tips make the stay smoother. Because the rooftop is popular, arrive early if you want a table at sunset, and check whether there are dress or reservation requirements for weekends. If you are interested in architecture, step outside for a short walk along the river to the Wrigley Building, the Tribune Tower and the Michigan Avenue Bridge, which are among the best-known buildings in the city. The Chicago Riverwalk below provides a pleasant place to walk or have coffee, with views of the water and the skyscrapers. In winter, the river is quieter and the rooftop may be limited, but the lobby and restaurants offer a warm refuge. For an evening out, the theatre district and the restaurants of River North are within a short walk or a quick ride. Ask about packages that include rooftop access or dining if you are marking a special occasion.