Ideally positioned in Chicago’s affluent Gold Coast, which is replete with charming townhouses, luxury storefronts, and classy restaurants, the Viceroy Chicago poses the ultimate location for experiencing the beloved “Second City.”
Housed in a 120-year-old landmark, the modern hotel seamlessly blends past and present from the inside out. Its two contrasting exteriors—a historic four-story brick-and-terracotta façade of the circa-1920s Cedar Hotel countered by a striking 18-story glass tower containing the refreshed interiors—meet in harmony. An expansive yet intimate lobby welcomes guests with a teal-hued backdrop adorned with an installation of French novelist Marcel Proust’s inspirational writings in gold lettering, complemented by low-slung mid-century furnishings.
A specially curated aromatic scent permeates the check-in area, which boasts stately bronze check-in desks, adding to the already stylish and attractive atmosphere. At the same time, vintage black-and-white framed photographs hang next to an eye-catching mural depicting a music recital by famed South American cubist Aquíles Badi.
The hallways to its 180 guestrooms and 18 suites are clad in repetitive shape-centric patterned coverings and traditional wood doors swathed in sunshine yellow and maroon colors. Stepping inside, guests will find an apparent Art Deco influence resembling Chicago’s renowned architectural heritage: shiny gold and black-accented fixtures and geometric-oriented artworks spawn a retro-chic ambiance as floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the iconic cityscape—and in some chambers, Lake Michigan.
For more spectacular views of the “City by the Lake,” one of the metropolis’s cheeky nicknames, the Viceroy offers a cosmopolitan chic rooftop pool open during the summer. Soak in the prime weather upstairs, then head downstairs for al fresco dining at the ground-floor eatery, Somerset. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Somerset’s menu highlights elevated American cuisine, changing seasonally, and serves inventive dishes such as Lobster Benedict for breakfast and the Somerset Wagyu Burger with black truffle, maple-glazed bacon, and crispy parsnips.
It’s no secret that Chi-Town excels in entertainment, dining, and culture, and the Viceroy Chicago is one of the best places to experience the city at its finest.
Top Takeaways
Location: Gold Coast, Downtown Chicago
Address: 1118 N State St, Chicago, IL 60610
Rating: Five-Star
The vibe: A stylish Art Deco-inspired stay reviving a century-old landmark building in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast.
Food + Drink: Somerset, set on the ground floor of the iconic 1920s Cedar Hotel, serves classic American cuisine and cocktails. With its inviting indoor-outdoor ambiance and terrace dining, it’s an ideal spot for enjoying Chicago’s summer evenings.
Our Favorite Part of the Hotel: The signature scent at the Viceroy is not something we typically call out; however, it’s worth noting that its effervescence was splendid.
Amenities: Outdoor swimming pool; Fitness center; Restaurant & Bar; Room service; Free WiFi; Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms; Laundry services
What’s Nearby? Chicago Lakefront Trail; Magnificent Mile; Chicago Tribune Tower; Cloud Gate – The Bean; Millennium Park; Navy Pier
Any personal neighborhood recs? For a classic Chicago-style hot dog, visit the divey Devil Dawgs. Have drinks at LUXBAR for something fancier, followed by a fine steak dinner, plus a slice of famed carrot cake, at Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse. When it comes to activities, don’t miss the Chicago Architecture Tour along the Chicago River to learn about the city’s iconic buildings—including the Wrigley Building, Merchandise Mart, and Willis Tower—and discover the true origin of the “Windy City” and the “Second City” nicknames.
Rooms: 180 guestrooms, including 18 suites.
Pricing: Rates start at $335 per night.
Closest Airport: O’Hare International Airport (ORD) or Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
