What Kimpton Hotels Are and Who Runs Them

Kimpton Hotels is a chain of upscale, independent-style hotels owned by IHG Hotels & Resorts (InterContinental Hotels Group). The chain operates roughly 80 properties across North America, with locations in major cities, beach destinations, and wine country regions. Unlike many large hotel chains, Kimpton properties are designed to feel like local, boutique hotels rather than standardized corporate properties — each one has its own design, restaurant, and local character.

Kimpton is known for a few specific practices that differ from typical chain hotels. The chain does not charge resort fees, does not charge for pet stays (a major distinction), and does not charge cancellation fees if you cancel at least 24 hours before arrival. These policies are built into the brand, not promotional offers that change seasonally.

Key Takeaways

  • Kimpton is an upscale hotel chain owned by IHG with about 80 properties, each designed to feel independent rather than standardized.
  • Pets stay free at Kimpton hotels with no weight limit, and the chain does not charge resort fees or standard cancellation penalties.
  • Room rates vary widely by location and season, and you book directly through Kimpton's website, through IHG's loyalty program, or through third-party booking sites.
  • Kimpton properties include on-site restaurants and bars, and many offer fitness centers, though amenities vary by location.
  • If you have a problem during your stay, you contact the front desk or the property manager directly; corporate customer service handles billing and reservation disputes.

How Room Rates and Booking Work

Kimpton room rates depend on the specific property, the season, and how far in advance you book. A room in a smaller market during off-season might run $150 to $250 per night, while the same hotel during peak season could be $300 to $500 or more. Properties in major cities like San Francisco, New York, or Los Angeles typically cost more than those in secondary markets. The chain does not publish a single "standard" rate because each property sets its own pricing based on local demand.

You can book a Kimpton room through three main routes: the Kimpton website directly, the IHG One Rewards loyalty program (if you are a member), or third-party booking sites like Expedia, Booking.com, or Google Hotels. Booking directly through Kimpton's website sometimes offers the best rate, and it guarantees you get the no-resort-fee and no-cancellation-fee policies. If you book through a third-party site, confirm the cancellation terms before you complete the purchase, because some third-party bookings may have different rules.

Pet Policies and What They Actually Cover

Kimpton's pet policy is one of its main selling points: pets stay free, with no weight limit and no additional fees. This applies to dogs, cats, and many other animals. You do not need to request a pet-friendly room or pay extra — you straightforward tell the hotel when you book that you are bringing a pet. The hotel will assign you a room and provide a pet bed and food bowls at no charge.

The policy does not cover damage caused by your pet. If your pet damages the room, you will be charged for repairs. The hotel also reserves the right to refuse a pet if the animal poses a safety risk or has a history of aggression. When you arrive, the front desk will ask about your pet and may provide information about nearby parks or walking routes.

What Amenities Come With Your Room

Amenities at Kimpton properties vary by location, but most include a fitness center, free WiFi, and a business center. Many properties have a spa, pool, or hot tub, though not all. Every Kimpton hotel has at least one restaurant and bar on-site, and some have multiple dining venues. These restaurants are open to both guests and the public.

Kimpton does not charge a resort fee, which means you do not pay extra for access to the fitness center, WiFi, or other standard amenities. This is a significant difference from many competing luxury chains, where resort fees can add $20 to $50 per night to your bill. The room rate you see is the room rate you pay (plus taxes and any optional services you add, like parking or spa treatments).

Cancellation and Changes to Your Reservation

Kimpton's standard cancellation policy allows you to cancel or modify your reservation at no charge if you do so at least 24 hours before your scheduled arrival. If you cancel within 24 hours of arrival, you will be charged for one night. This policy applies to most rates, though some deeply discounted or non-refundable rates may have stricter terms — always check the fine print when you book.

To cancel or modify a reservation, log into your account on the Kimpton website, call the specific property directly, or contact Kimpton's central reservations line. If you booked through a third-party site, you may need to cancel through that site instead, depending on the terms of your booking. Keep your confirmation number handy when you call.

How to Handle Problems During Your Stay

If you have a problem during your stay — a noisy room, a broken amenity, a billing error — contact the front desk when ready. The front desk staff can often resolve issues on the spot, such as moving you to a different room or providing a credit. For more serious complaints or if the front desk cannot help, ask to speak with the property manager or general manager.

If you have a billing dispute or a problem with your reservation that you cannot resolve at the property, contact Kimpton's customer service line. You will need your confirmation number and the dates of your stay. For complaints about service or safety, you can also file a report through IHG's corporate office, since Kimpton is part of the IHG family. Response times vary, but most issues are addressed within a few business days.

Loyalty Program and Repeat Guest Benefits

If you stay at Kimpton hotels regularly, you can join IHG One Rewards, IHG's free loyalty program. Members earn points for each night stayed, which can be redeemed for free nights, room upgrades, or other rewards. You also get member-only rates, which are sometimes lower than the public rate for the same room.

Kimpton members in the loyalty program may also receive perks like late checkout, room upgrades (if available), or complimentary breakfast at some properties. The specific benefits depend on your membership tier, which you reach by staying a certain number of nights per year. Membership is free to join, and you can enroll online before your first stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay extra for WiFi at Kimpton hotels?

No. WiFi is included in your room rate at all Kimpton properties. You do not need to pay for a WiFi package or upgrade. When you arrive, the front desk will provide the network name and password.

Can I bring multiple pets, or are there restrictions on the type of pet?

Kimpton allows multiple pets and does not restrict by type or weight. However, the hotel reserves the right to refuse any animal that poses a safety risk. Exotic animals or animals with a history of aggression may not be permitted. Contact the property directly if you have questions about a specific pet.

What if I need to change my check-in date after I book?

You can modify your reservation at no charge if you make the change at least 24 hours before your original arrival date. Log into your account on the Kimpton website, call the property, or contact reservations. If you change your date within 24 hours of arrival, you may be charged for the original night.

Are there Kimpton hotels outside the United States?

Most Kimpton properties are in the United States, with locations in Canada and Mexico as well. The chain does not have properties in Europe, Asia, or other regions. Check the Kimpton website to see all current locations.

Do Kimpton hotels offer group rates or corporate discounts?

Yes. Kimpton has a group sales team that handles reservations for groups of 10 or more rooms. You can contact the group sales department through the Kimpton website or call the specific property. Corporate rates may also be available if your company has a negotiated agreement with IHG.