The Godfrey Hotel Chicago (127 W. Huron St.; www.godfreyhotelchicago.com ) is currently offering a Pride Month hotel package for June that includes overnight accommodations, a table for two at the I/O Godfrey rooftop, a massage at the hotel's Spa Boutique with a $135 spa credit (optional enhancement, not included in package) and next-day breakfast delivery to the room for two. However, is the stay really worth your dollars?
—Location: The Godfrey Hotel Chicago is in the heart of the River North area—which means you're practically close to everything you need/want, from the shopping destination of North Michigan Avenue to public transportation to various attractions. So, the location is desirable, to say the least
—Feel/atmosphere: The Godfrey is a boutique hotel that's actually moderately priced, considering its location. (A deluxe king bedroom unit starts at about $155/night.) As for the feel, as fitting for such a hotel, The Godfrey has an intimate feel, even though the areas are spacious.
The room I had was spacious and immaculate. However, I must point out that although the room was spotless, the hallway floors were definitely not—with large dust bunnies throughout my floor and another one that I checked both days I was there. The hotel boasts of a Triple-A Inspector's Best of Housekeeping citation on its website's homepage, so I'm not sure what's going on with the hallways.
That aside, everything else operated like a well-oiled machine.
—Amenities: The spa experience—a facial—went along smoothly (no pun intended), with aesthetician Harmony providing soothing conversation and facial rubs. She was also helpful regarding information about her products and accommodated my requests. In the end, I was definitely glowing. (By the way, the gym—which has the basics to keep you fit—is located next to the spa.)
The I/O rooftop is a must-visit. The views are amazing; the vibrant, telegenic staff (including Ashley, Trigger and Jared, who probably has his own fan club) are helpful; the music (remixes of songs by Prince and more) warrant a dance floor; and the food is incredible. The "Godfrey Proud" package includes one pitcher of rainbow sangria and a rainbow maki roll; they both are worth having. However, please know that the fourth-floor rooftop is only accessible on the first floor by the hotel's front door, despite the fact that "I/O Rooftop" is prominently displayed in the main elevators—making people think they can access the rooftop without going through the lobby.
—COVID/health and safety: The Godfrey is probably one of the most safety-conscious hotels I've seen in some time. The website itself has a whole page devoted to health and safety. Regarding COVID guidelines, although fully vaccinated guests no longer need to wear masks (in accordance with the city), there are many other precautions in place, such as social-distancing placements, masked employees and many hand-sanitizer stations. Even room service is this post-COVID age, as a delivery person with a bag has replaced the employee who used to bring up your breakfast on a tray.
—Bottom line: Overall, I do give The Godfrey a thumbs-up. Not only is the boutique hotel a good deal, but the helpful staff, great amenities, and general commitment to safety and cleanliness make this a place worth visiting for Pride Month—or any other time.
Note: This hotel visit was based on an arranged invitation.
