Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?

Diamond Ambassador - booked Classic King, received Exec King.

How are the rooms?

The room I was given is in the executive tower facing Mich Ave. Corner room with windows on three sides. Great views of the river and north up the avenue. The bathroom separates the doorway from the sleeping area so no issues with hallway noise, but lots of street noise during the day and in the evening. Bathroom had separate tub and shower stall. Huge flat screen tv.

How is the exec. lounge?

Did not book, did not use

What was good and what was bad?

Ambassador check in line was longer than the regular one. When one of those agents became available, he called me over. I was only offered points and had to ask for breakfast coupons. Breakfast restaurant attendants are super nice, friendly, and helpful. The room was clean and comfortable, but as I said kind of noisy from the street. The mini bar was empty so I did not use the drink credit. The door of the shower stall did not close completely, so I had to be careful to not get water all over the floor. Good water pressure in the shower. And I really like the soft close drawers.

Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?

I usually use points when staying at this property, but it was a very busy time and no reward nights were available. Booked far enough in advance that the rate was still reasonable, and I was not charged a destination fee per night. I will always return to this hotel, and may end up here more often in the future. I have heard that the Monaco will no longer be a Kimpton starting next year and that is usually my first choice in Chicago with the IC being second.