Review: LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton

How did it strike you on arrival?
It's all about the views in this landmark building where the Magnificent Mile meets the Chicago River. The second-story lobby bar, crowded rooftop bar, and even the rooms make the river views their best feature.

What’s the crowd like?
You can definitely pick out the Hilton Honors members who used their points to stay here, but the second-floor lobby bar overlooking the Chicago River—and especially the rooftop bar on the 22nd floor—are huge magnets for the local party crowd.

The good stuff: Tell us about your room.
The gold coffered ceiling of the ground floor lobby makes a stunning first impression, but the best rooms, the Vista rooms, are in a new glass addition featuring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the river and the bridges that vault over it. Dark wood paneling and framed black-and-white photos lend a slightly masculine tone.

We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?
Luxury linens on the cozy platform bed.

How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?
Nice selection of black-and-white architectural photos framed over the beds. My favorite feature was the slipper chair stationed beside the window wall for gazing outside.

Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
Bright, marble-clad bathroom with a glassed-walled walk-in shower feels appropriately clean.

Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?
The Wi-Fi is good and free with your stay.

Anything stand out about other services and features?
There's a restaurant on the 21st floor that feels a bit like a nightclub, and a rooftop bar with one of the best views in the city one floor above that is consistently packed in the warmer seasons. Buy a glass of Dom Perignon ($50) and you can have the signature cupola atop the roof—the topper on the 1923 landmark building—to yourself (a popular engagement spot). On the opposite side of all those vices, the gym is well-equipped.

Any other tips?
It's worth the upgrade to the riverfront rooms.

Bottom line: What are we booking here for?
Great location and stunning views.