Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh occupies the James H. Reed Building at 620 William Penn Place, a Beaux Arts office block completed in 1903 that later housed an electric company and then the Reed Smith law firm. The exterior keeps its original stately look, while the inside is anything but buttoned-up: bold colors, patterned wallpaper and an art and sculpture collection give the hotel a playful personality that stands out among downtown's business hotels. The Commoner, the ground-floor restaurant and bar, is a popular downtown spot for comfort food and cocktails, and the Rooftop Biergarten adds beers and city views when the weather allows. Like other Kimpton hotels, the Monaco makes a point of friendly service and welcomes pets, and it offers packages tied to the city's culture, such as a recent Gallery Night Getaway with tickets to the Carnegie Museum of Art. The location is excellent, a few steps from the Omni William Penn and Mellon Square, with Market Square, the Cultural District and the Strip District all within an easy walk.

Location and getting around: from William Penn Place you can walk to most of downtown in ten minutes, including Market Square, the theatres of the Cultural District and the convention center. The Strip District food tour and the Senator John Heinz History Center are about fifteen minutes away on foot, and the North Shore stadiums and the Warhol Museum are a pleasant walk across the river. The T light rail runs under downtown for the North Shore and Station Square, and Oakland's museums are a short taxi or bus ride away.

Rooms and who it suits: rooms are bright and characterful, and the suites suit longer stays or travellers who want space to spread out. The Monaco suits couples and friends who want personality rather than a big chain feel, art lovers, and travellers with dogs. Business travellers like it for its central location and its lively restaurant, which makes dinner easy after a long day.

Good to know: the Rooftop Biergarten is weather dependent, so do not count on it on a cold November evening. The Kimpton pet policy is generous, but confirm details for your dates. Parking downtown is paid and the hotel can advise on valet, or you can arrive from the airport by taxi or bus and walk everywhere. Book The Commoner ahead on weekend evenings, and expect mid-to-upper range rates that rise on convention and event weekends.