Typical Holiday Inn, but with a view
Overall, we were not overly disappointed with our stay at this location. But that is mostly because we got it for under $100 through Priceline. I would bet this is the go to location for Priceline when you check Chicago's River North and a 3 star place. 
The location is not a long walk from Michigan Avenue or some pretty nice restaurants, but compared to many other places, this one is quite a bit off the beaten path. 
The views, as many say, are pretty good. Can they be beat? From experience, yes. This one offers a nice view of the river and the Willis Tower topping other buildings. We believe our view from the Hyatt on Wacker was better this past winter (river and Hancock building if you get a west facing room). 
Room here was a typical outdated Holiday Inn room, but it was clean and somewhat comfortable. You could sometimes hear the El, despite being so high up, but it did not keep me awake. The air conditioner was somewhat noisy and older type. 
We did not use the other areas of the hotel, except to have the breakfast buffet at the in house restaurant. Get there early if you want a decent buffet. We slept in after a late night at Second City. Our 10:00 am buffett was cold. Upon complaint, we were not charged.
Keefer's, Smith and Wolensky, Harry Carey's, Sullivan's, Gene and Georgetti are nearby restaurants. I can only vouch for Keefer's as being very nice!!. Howl at the Moon and House of Blues are nearby great entertainment. 
Parking is on site, but a little bit of a walk and $39 per night. There is a parking garage about 1-2 blocks west, but I did not catch the price for comparison. 
Given the price we got, we were certainly satisfied. If you have to pay the nomal, full price, I would recommend elsewhere. 
Best of all, the staff were very courteous !! 
Probably a decent stay for a family with the decent size indoor pool.