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When it comes to hospitality, Chicago has you covered with its endless attractions, accommodations, restaurants, shops and the like. Need proof? Condé Nast Traveler readers have awarded it Best Big U.S. City honors for an unprecedented five years in a row now. But one hotel rises above the rest when it comes to an undeniably swanky Windy City stay: the Langham.

Artful Living | Why the Langham is Still Chicago’s Swankiest Stay

Photography provided by the Langham, Chicago

Conveniently located in the prime River North neighborhood, this five-star riverfront stunner is the world’s first hotel situated in a structure by legendary architect Mies van der Rohe (the final office building he designed, in fact, which took its rightful place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2010). It opened its doors in 2013, becoming the renown British hospitality group’s fourth stateside property. Right from the start, there was incredible fanfare for this “midcentury modern masterpiece,” as Forbes Travel Guide dubs it. The accolades have continued to pour in over the years from Forbes, Travel + Leisure, U.S. News & World Report, and the like. It even graced the cover of Artful Living back in winter 2014.

Artful Living | Why the Langham is Still Chicago’s Swankiest Stay

And what’s not to love? The hotel’s 316 guest rooms boast understated elegance, luxe trappings, and lovely water and cityscape views. The suites — in particular, the expansive Infinity Suite — can’t be beat. Discerning travelers can enjoy the best vistas from the 12th floor Langham Club lounge, complete with concierge services, boardroom use, a writer’s corner, multiple food presentations from sunrise to sundown, and more.

Artful Living | Why the Langham is Still Chicago’s Swankiest Stay

On the culinary front, in-house fine-dining institution Travelle is a must-try. Trinidad native and longtime Chicago talent Justin Gomes was named chef de cuisine last December, and he’s been putting his unique stamp on the innovative seasonal American menu ever since. Foodies can nosh on delectable dishes like foie gras with sunflower and strawberry; king crab with green curry, dumpling and watercress; and wagyu short rib with wild garlic and miso. The eatery also serves up breakfast, brunch and lunch. On Saturdays and Sundays, the extravagant British tradition of afternoon tea is on tap at Pavilion.

Artful Living | Why the Langham is Still Chicago’s Swankiest Stay

Chuan Spa is a wellness escape amidst the busy city. Treatments are focused around the five elements and range from facials to massages to all-in-one treatments such as the Chuan Tao of Detox, which includes full-body exfoliation, a warm marine algae wrap and acupressure massage to help release energy blocks. The 67-foot indoor pool is not to be missed, with its cooling showers, heated recliners, steam room, Himalayan salt sauna and herbal sauna.

All this adds up to unrivaled accommodations right in the heart of downtown Chicago. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, the luxurious Langham makes a visit to the Windy City pure pleasure.

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