Loyalty is tricky when it comes to travel these days. Sticking with a particular hotel chain or airline can mean missing out on better deals, ideal locations or easier schedules—all in the name of earning points (you know who you are). Sometimes, you just have to throw caution to the wind and book what you actually like. In my case, it’s The Langham—a London-born luxury brand with only a handful of U.S. locations. I was wowed by my time at The Langham Boston and have been plotting my next stay since. The Langham Chicago—the world's only hotel in a Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe–designed building—exceeded expectations with its central location, oversized rooms and a grand 13th-floor lounge (12C—because superstition).
Why stay at The Langham Chicago?
I was never someone who cared about hotels—just give me a bed and a shower and I’d be out the door. (My vacation style used to be fast and furious.) But then I stopped being 25, had a child and suddenly became acutely aware of thread counts (ah, aging). Hotels like The Langham quickly climbed to the top of my must-stay list.
If you, too, care about soft sheets, warm greetings and next-level amenities, you’ve come to the right place. The Langham Chicago promises to wrap you in quiet luxury and deliver the rest and thoughtfulness you didn’t know you needed—but absolutely deserve.
What are the rooms like at The Langham Chicago?
I stayed in a corner suite overlooking the Chicago River and riverwalk. From the sixth floor, I was eye-level with the flapping American flag and had panoramic views of Lake Michigan, nearby restaurants, hotels and bridges. I spent most of my time on the living room chaise, admiring the city below—or attempting to read when people-watching wasn’t too distracting. I can only imagine how cool it must be to stay here during St. Patrick’s Day, when the river is dyed green.
The layout is thoughtful: a half-bath to the left as you enter (which did not go unused!), L-shaped floor-to-ceiling windows, a full living room with a couch, desk, hidden minibar and wet bar with ample storage and a sink. The hardwood floors, punctuated by built-in rugs under the seating and bed, gave the space a sleek, high-end feel and prevented unnecessary tripping, which I appreciated.
The luggage trunk minibar is a signature touch I remembered—and loved—from my last Langham stay.
The only downside to those expansive windows on a lower floor? City noise. I hadn’t heard that many sirens since living in New York over a decade ago. It was nostalgic, but the roar of fire trucks did have me questioning the number of emergencies in downtown Chicago.
Other highlights: a walk-in closet nook with plenty of storage (essential for containing travel clutter), and a spacious bathroom with a tub, rain shower, water closet and double vanities. My only gripe? Outlets are only on one side of the sink. My husband and I had to take turns plugging in our respective hair tools.
The Langham nails the nuance of a better home-away-from-home. I could control the solar and blackout shades with a button, order his-and-hers pillows from a customizable menu, and slather myself in Diptyque lotion in bed. (Lately, it seems every hotel is on a mission to mount their fancy soaps to the wall.)
What are the best bites and restaurants at The Langham Chicago?
Our suite included access to The Langham Club, which was a total game-changer for traveling with a child. It had everything: a quiet place to cool off, Champagne on demand and plenty of grab-and-go snacks.
Breakfast included a full buffet (eggs, bacon, potatoes, oatmeal, pastries) plus à la carte options like omelets and avocado toast. As an egg snob, I ordered my scramble directly from the kitchen—and it was creamy, cheesy and utterly perfect.
For a sit-down meal, Travelle offers seasonal American dishes with stunning views of the river. On weekends, afternoon tea is served in the Pavilion—a cozy spot I can only imagine is even better when it's snowing outside.
What are the amenities like at The Langham Chicago?
The Langham Chicago truly elevates the standard hotel experience with a host of wellness experiences. I found my Zen at the five-star Chuan Spa, where a 50-minute customized massage eased my sun-stricken soul. You can also book facials, foot therapies, manicures and more. Don’t skip the quiet room, stocked with teas and light snacks, either pre- or post-treatment.
There’s also a large indoor pool and a full schedule of fitness classes to help balance out all that Chicago deep dish.
What is the service like at The Langham Chicago?
Lest you forget you’re staying at a five-star property, there’s always someone ready to open a door, carry your bags, or bring ice after your toddler walks into the revolving door. (True story.) The staff made us feel genuinely special.
At check-in, my daughter was gifted an adorable Langham bear, which I noticed delighted other kids as well. While flipping through a magazine in the lounge’s aesthetic reading corner (an Eames chair! A typewriter!), a staffer quietly topped off my Champagne. Every interaction was warm, thoughtful and proactive.
What’s the area like around The Langham Chicago?
Located in the heart of downtown, expect a mix of locals, office-goers and tourists. Take full advantage of the riverfront location: walk the riverwalk, shop at Nordstrom, grab a bite at Eataly, or wander a few blocks to Michigan Avenue (a.k.a. the Magnificent Mile).
Why you should book a stay at The Langham Chicago
If you’re craving a luxe-yet-lowkey weekend in Chicago, The Langham delivers. You’re steps from Millennium Park, the Art Institute, and some of the best food in town. After a full day of sightseeing (or hot dog sampling), there’s no better retreat than your plush, quiet suite—with skyline views, soft sheets and Diptyque everything.
Address: 330 North Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611
Price per night: From $500, depending on dates and accommodations
Closest transport: Millennium Station