Arrival / Check-In: I arrived on one of Chicago’s coldest days and was immediately greeted by the hotel’s doorman and a staff member in The Langham’s signature pink uniform, a cheerful contrast to the winter weather. Check-in was handled efficiently in The Langham Club Lounge on the 13th floor (listed as 12C on the elevator). The lounge, designed with a mid-century modern sensibility that complements the Mies van der Rohe–designed building, offers comfortable seating that flows into the breakfast area and provides expansive views of the city. While I enjoyed a cup of tea, the brief check-in was completed, and Carlos, the director of butler service, escorted me to my room.
Guest Quarters: My Grand King Riverview felt more like a suite than a standard guest room. The centerpiece was the hotel’s signature Blissful Bed, a generously sized king that lived up to its name. The room included a large flat-screen television and a spacious desk equipped with convenient desktop outlets—ideal for working. A stylish stand-alone minibar and coffeemaker unit sat nearby, and two comfortable chairs offered a place to relax while taking in the views. A large vanity in the foyer added practicality and style.
The bathroom was expansive, with dual sinks, a large soaking tub, and a separate shower featuring a monsoon-style rain showerhead. The water closet is separate for added privacy. Chuan by Laura Tonatto toiletries were provided, matching the overall sense of thoughtful, high-quality detailing throughout the room.
Services & Amenities: The hotel’s Chuan Spa and wellness facilities include a fully equipped fitness center and a 67-foot indoor lap pool, giving guests multiple options for fitness and relaxation. The property also houses Travelle, an on-site restaurant where chef Tim Graham presents contemporary Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Travelle includes a bar and lounge with impressive city views, and Pavilion, adjacent to the lobby, serves afternoon tea and light fare for casual dining or a quick bite.
The Langham is well suited for meetings and events, offering roughly 15,000 square feet of flexible event space with modern audiovisual systems. Among the meeting options is the Cinema Suite, a small private theater useful for screenings, presentations, or immersive company events.
The Experience: Located in the landmark IBM Plaza, a Mies van der Rohe design listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Langham, Chicago honors the building’s architectural heritage while presenting a refined, contemporary hotel experience. Its position on the Chicago River places it between the Loop and the beginning of the Magnificent Mile, making it convenient for both business and leisure travelers. While the location and facilities are excellent, the standout feature is the service: friendly, attentive staff who enhance the stay. Based on this visit, The Langham, Chicago is an outstanding choice for anyone visiting the city.
GT Checklist
Doorman/valet — Yes
Check-in under 10 minutes — Yes
Separate tub and shower — Yes
Large vanity — Yes
High-quality towels — Yes
Powerful, unattached hair dryer — Yes
High-quality bed linens — Yes
Large flat-screen television — Yes
Large desk with convenient outlets — Yes
Large complimentary laptop safe — Yes
Complimentary in-room WiFi — Yes
Complimentary bottled water — Yes
Stocked minibar — Yes
Ample lighting — Yes
In-room coffeemaker — Yes
Iron and ironing board — Yes
On-site restaurant — Yes
24-hour room service — Yes
24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center — Yes
Turn-down service — Yes
The Langham, Chicago
330 N. Wabash Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611
tel 312 923 9988
langhamhotels.com