The Holiday Inn has a great location (on the north side of the Chicago River, steps from the Loop) but it is confusing to access on foot from the west. Renovations were going on in the lobby, presumably to modernize it (i.e. remove the dark repeating floral patterns). I expect that they'll be doing the same to the guest rooms, which look dated. However, the views are outstanding, at least from the 21st floor. The room was fine, but the bed could have been a bit more comfortable. Also, the bathroom vanity is triangle shaped and faces a corner with two mirrors. You can see yourself fine in them together, but what you think is your left hand is really your right, making for a fun time shaving! It's a small thing, but those are what get you.
There is a skybridge from the hotel/office building to the Merchandise Mart and the el station, so you don't have to walk far outside if you don't want to.
After checking out and leaving the hotel, I realized I had left my suit jacket in the room. Housekeeping was nice enough to hold on to it for me until I could return to get it.
Overall, it was a good stay. This hotel will be near perfect once the renovations are complete.
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