The Buckingham Hotel

This is one of the most unusual hotels we've ever visited. For starters, there is no indication there's a hotel in this building, save for a small placard on the parking garage sign. It's on the 40th floor of the Chicago Stock Exchange building, so with that comes extra security. The parking garage is on a small street and it appears to be closed; there are three doors but rest assured the one on the right is the entry. You arrive, find a spot, then make your way up to the first floor of the garage, where you are met by a security guard who shows you how to get into the main part of the garage. From there, another guard meets you who takes you to another elevator that takes you to the main lobby. Again, this is not the lobby to the hotel; it's the lobby of the building. When yo exit this elevator you have access to set of buildings inside a security barrier. On one bank of elevators you will see a sign for the hotel. You take those elevators to the 39th floor, where you then switch to ANOTHER elevator that take you to the 40th floor. You've finally arrived; you see a modest front desk where the person will check you in. The views from the guest lounge and your room can be spectacular...we were lucky enough to get a lakeside view of Grant Park. This building is due west of Grant Park, about 7 blocks. It's an easy walk. When you're coming into the city, assuming no redirects because of closures or construction, taking 90N to Ida B. Welles Dr practically takes you right to the building. Very easy coming and going. We found our room extremely comfortable and the staff friendly and helpful. They serve a modest continental breakfast, but there is a restaurant just outside of the building's lobby if you'd rather eat there. All in all we really liked the privacy and seclusion of this place and will absolutely stay here again the next time we come to the city. I've included a few pictures that should help you finding the place.

Nice hotel with amazing views, especially from the higher floors – definitely a highlight of the stay. However, I give it 4/5 mainly because it’s unnecessarily complicated to find your way the first time. You need to go through a series of elevators (three in total!) to finally get to the hotel floor. It’s a bit confusing and not ideal after a long drive or with luggage. A small sign or clearer directions would go a long way. Once you’re in, everything is much easier. The room was clean and comfortable, and the lake view was absolutely worth it. Unfortunately, breakfast was disappointing – limited options and not on the same level as the rest of the experience. Still, a good place to stay for the views and location.

Great view. Hotel has only 20 rooms on the 40th floor. Staff were ok, there was a lounge with coffee and tea. Breakfast was minimal. The gym was closed on the weekend and hours left a lot to be desired. Location is good. Parking was overly expensive. Better off parking in the city lot next door.

Kinda scared to leave to good of a review, this place must stay protected!! lol! Definitely a hidden gem, nicest hotel I’ve stayed in so far in Chicago, the view is unbeatable.

Keep this a secret. The hotel is fabulous. Built for visiting CEOs to the financial district it has quiet halls, spacious rooms and views to die for. It's quiet and walkable to many sites from Union station to the art museum. Located on the loop.

Second time staying here, the views are immaculate. Got a free upgrade, the breakfast is a simple hotel breakfast but the views are great on the 40th lounge area. It’s a boutique hotel, only one floor and lake views are great, last time I had views of the Willis tower and that was great too. The price beats so many other hotels and airbnbs, while it’s not anything crazy it’s so affordable

The city views were spectacular. The room was clean, and comfortable. The only down side is parking, however it is the city.

Lovely hotel in a great location. Very easy to walk to main train station with city lines and metro. Short walk to millennium park and nearby galleries and Riverwalk. As mentioned in other reviews, the entrance is inside 425 financial building. Elevator up to the 39th floor and then transfer to another elevator up to 40. Front desk staff are very helpful in this but it can be tricky first time in. Great views from the rooms and a nice help yourself style continental breakfast.