The James Chicago

During my two-night stay at The James Chicago, I was taken with the luggage art installation by Joel Ross every time I strolled through the lobby. In a motel between Texas and Chicago, the artist paid for a one-night stay and brought in 50 vintage suitcases, dismantling the entire room from bedsprings to light bulbs. The suitcases, filled with the motel room contents, are now the focal point that drew me in every time. Art is showcased throughout the hotel. I always love when hotels feature quirky art; it’s like a free, unexpected museum trip.

My king loft room was spacious, especially generous for a city hotel. The room opened into a living room area with a couch, chair, small end table and two large ottomans doubling as a coffee table. The other sitting area featured a corner booth and table, next to a private media room; an additional king-sized bed can be made up as a second bed or used to sprawl out and relax in-room while watching TV.

To the right of the door was a wet bar, which featured the in-room bartender, all the supplies needed to create custom cocktails in-room. The bedroom area was tucked away in a private corner a step up from the living area. A curtain of metal chains separated this area from the living room, and a large full-length mirror leaned against the wall immediately between — cool décor techniques.

I enjoyed lunch at the on-site David Burke’s Primehouse. My Caesar salad was prepared fresh tableside, and the menu features unique selections like bacon lollipops and pretzel-crusted crab cakes. JIMMY is the hotel’s speakeasy-style, intimate cocktail lounge, serving custom cocktails that change seasonally.

I utilized the 2,500-square-foot fitness center, located one floor down from the lobby and next to the hotel spa. Danny Errico, founder of Equinox Fitness Clubs, designed the gym.

The James Chicago

55 E. Ontario St.

Chicago, IL 60611

tel 312 337 1000