"Why book? Everything under one cool roof: sleek rooms, an outpost of crowd-loving Lure Fishbar, and a contemporary art gallery to challenge your gray matter. Set the scene Fittingly located between the commerce of the Magnificent Mile and the galleries of River North to the west, the 21c Museum Hotel Chicago attracts travelers across the tourist-to-hipster spectrum. What keeps them in-house are the dynamic art exhibitions, which guests are free to roam 24/7. It might take a few viewings to fully grasp the social, political, and economic issues explored in the galleries (beyond the Insta-begging appeal of a synthetic life-size bison carrying a rider draped in an American flag). To decode it all, take the free, hour-long docent tour offered weekly. The backstory The 21c Museum Hotel brand traces its root to Louisville art collectors Steve Wilson and Laura Lee Brown, who—though they retain a stake in the hotels—have since sold the majority of their interests in the art-championing collection to the massive French company Accor, managers of Fairmont, Raffles, Sofitel, and other portfolios. But the art remains undiluted and is the top reason to check in. The rooms Designers Deborah Berke Partners seem to want to bring temperatures down with their gray-toned color scheme anchored by cloud-like beds. But even the most modest room, facing an interior lightwall, have a sitting area with a couch and table that lends residential ease. You’re not missing much by booking the cheapest room—the action is in the public areas—but if you feel like splurging the corner suites frame the cityscape from two angles. Food and drink Chicagoans have embraced the New York spin-off Lure Fishbar for its conviviality—happy hour is back—lack of pretention, and soup-to-nuts seafood menu from sushi and oysters to sharable shellfish platters. The neighborhood/area Location is an advantage. Whether you turn right towards the designer brands lining Michigan Avenue or left towards the indie restaurants and exhibition spaces, most downtown attractions are within walking distance. The service For a hotel that’s all about challenging art, 21c makes sure no guest is left behind. Warm is the prevailing temperature here. Accessibility Yes. Anything left to mention? Events for which the brand are known—including gallery socials—remain on hold during the pandemic." - Elaine Glusac
