Talk about prime location. With rooms overlooking the Chicago River, Hotel Monaco is convenient to the Loop, the Museum Campus, and nightlife and restaurants of River North and the Magnificent Mile. Just walking in the doors you’ll get the sense of old-fashioned chivalry, as a doorman greets you and leads you inside. The lobby stretches into two rooms with cushy sitting nooks, a fireplace, and communal tables with lots of outlets. Behind the reception desk, backlit bright art of women in hats is a reminder of the building’s history as a hat factory dating back to 1912. High ceilings make standard rooms feel even more spacious, and each of the units has a cushion-lined window seat, peering down on the city. Bathrooms are small, with a single sink and modest tub, while suites have tubs so big they just might qualify as wave pools. Nightly wine receptions are a lovely way to unwind. Plus, the hotel offers guests bikes to borrow.