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Tours in Chicago |
Whether seeking a basic room or an ultra-luxurious suite, Chicago has a plethora of each with a lot of in-between. With the exception of the Wheeler Mansion, which is near Chicago's huge convention facility, McCormick Place, the hotels listed are located Downtown. Guests should always check with hotels for special rates or promotions, and at the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau (tel: 1 877 244 2246/CHICAGO); website: www.choosechicago.com), particularly during Winter Delights (Nov-Feb) or during other special events. Hotel rooms can be reserved through the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau and other discount bookings are available from the no-fee discount hotel reservation service, Hot Rooms (tel: (773) 468 7666 or 1 800 468 3500; website: www.hotrooms.com), or through the Online Illinois Reservation Service (website: www.ghotw.com/list/country1/home/illinois.htm). Hotels in Chicago add a room tax and sales tax to all bills, which currently stands at 15.39%.
The hotels below have been grouped in four different price categories:
$$$$ (over US$300)
$$$ (US$200 to US$299)
$$ (US$100 to US$199)
$ (under US$100)
These prices are for one night in a double room, excluding room tax and breakfast unless otherwise specified. Travellers should be aware that winter rates are sometimes less than half the cost of summer and convention rates. Beginning rates listed reflect this.
The hotels below have been grouped in four different price categories:
$$$$ (over US$300)
$$$ (US$200 to US$299)
$$ (US$100 to US$199)
$ (under US$100)
These prices are for one night in a double room, excluding room tax and breakfast unless otherwise specified. Travellers should be aware that winter rates are sometimes less than half the cost of summer and convention rates. Beginning rates listed reflect this.
Business
Hilton Chicago
Overlooking Grant Park, Millennium Park, the Museum Campus and Lake Michigan, the Hilton Chicago combines modern amenities with historic splendour. When it opened in 1927, it was the world's largest hotel. It had an in-house hospital, ice rink, bowling alley, rooftop golf course and theatre. Through the years it has played host to Queen Elizabeth and 11 US presidents. The hotel's long Renaissance lobby, suites and crystal-laden, gold-gilt Grand Ballroom continue to emit an aura of elegance. Each of its 1,544 comfortable rooms, decorated in warm earthy colours, has state-of-the-art business facilities, classic cherry furnishings and marble bathrooms. Its facilities include four restaurants, a 24-hour business centre and complete fitness centre.
720 South Michigan Avenue
Tel: (312) 922 4400.
Website: www.hilton.com
Price: $$
Overlooking Grant Park, Millennium Park, the Museum Campus and Lake Michigan, the Hilton Chicago combines modern amenities with historic splendour. When it opened in 1927, it was the world's largest hotel. It had an in-house hospital, ice rink, bowling alley, rooftop golf course and theatre. Through the years it has played host to Queen Elizabeth and 11 US presidents. The hotel's long Renaissance lobby, suites and crystal-laden, gold-gilt Grand Ballroom continue to emit an aura of elegance. Each of its 1,544 comfortable rooms, decorated in warm earthy colours, has state-of-the-art business facilities, classic cherry furnishings and marble bathrooms. Its facilities include four restaurants, a 24-hour business centre and complete fitness centre.
720 South Michigan Avenue
Tel: (312) 922 4400.
Website: www.hilton.com
Price: $$
The Fairmont Chicago
This 37-floor, Rosetta-pink granite structure, which overlooks both Grant Park and Lake Michigan, has a spacious lobby that mixes contemporary furnishings with antiques and original art. A bath sommelier is just one of the luxurious amenities offered by this five-star hotel. Guests can relax after a busy day with a choice of candles, scents and bubbles in their drawn bath. The large and comfortably furnished rooms include premium mattresses, dressing areas, marble baths, built-in bars, multi-line phones, modem points and fax machines. Its chic Aria restaurant features a wide selection of wines and an interesting selection of regional American cuisines and its lounge has become a unique sushi bar.
200 North Columbus Drive
Tel: (312) 565 8000.
Website: www.fairmont.com
Price: $$
This 37-floor, Rosetta-pink granite structure, which overlooks both Grant Park and Lake Michigan, has a spacious lobby that mixes contemporary furnishings with antiques and original art. A bath sommelier is just one of the luxurious amenities offered by this five-star hotel. Guests can relax after a busy day with a choice of candles, scents and bubbles in their drawn bath. The large and comfortably furnished rooms include premium mattresses, dressing areas, marble baths, built-in bars, multi-line phones, modem points and fax machines. Its chic Aria restaurant features a wide selection of wines and an interesting selection of regional American cuisines and its lounge has become a unique sushi bar.
200 North Columbus Drive
Tel: (312) 565 8000.
Website: www.fairmont.com
Price: $$
W Chicago-City Center
The W Chicago-City Center merges the old, the new and the comfortable. A twin marble staircase, opposite the entrance, and the embossed, domed ceiling, on either side of the lobby, are reminders of the former Midland Hotel's 1940s splendour. The W chain totally renovated the property. Soft lighting, cushy couches, games and chessboards create the property's Living Room lobby while 1940s Hollywood is the décor of the glamorous guest rooms; chaises lounges, shadowboxes with antique cigar cases and four-metre (12-ft) ostrich leather headboards are mixed with 21st-century innovations such as CD players, Game Boys, high-speed Internet access, pillow-top mattresses and feather duvets. Tuscan cuisine is featured at the hotel's Ristorante Wé, where service is unhurried and attentive.
172 West Adams Street
Tel: (312) 332 1200.
Website: www.starwoodhotels.com
Price: $$
The W Chicago-City Center merges the old, the new and the comfortable. A twin marble staircase, opposite the entrance, and the embossed, domed ceiling, on either side of the lobby, are reminders of the former Midland Hotel's 1940s splendour. The W chain totally renovated the property. Soft lighting, cushy couches, games and chessboards create the property's Living Room lobby while 1940s Hollywood is the décor of the glamorous guest rooms; chaises lounges, shadowboxes with antique cigar cases and four-metre (12-ft) ostrich leather headboards are mixed with 21st-century innovations such as CD players, Game Boys, high-speed Internet access, pillow-top mattresses and feather duvets. Tuscan cuisine is featured at the hotel's Ristorante Wé, where service is unhurried and attentive.
172 West Adams Street
Tel: (312) 332 1200.
Website: www.starwoodhotels.com
Price: $$
Wheeler Mansion
The South Loop neighbourhood, close to McCormick Place, may be up and coming, but the Wheeler Mansion has arrived. The 130-year-old mansion is now an elegant, 11-room boutique hotel that offers a nice alternative to the big bustling hotels. Its lovely garden area, polished woodwork and special mattresses with goose feather duvets radiate warmth and comfort. Attention to detail is revealed in the property's original artwork and furnishings. Antique dressers function as bathroom vanity units and special amenities include errand service and free shoeshine service. A breakfast feast, such as crusted French toast topped with fruit, fresh juice and pastries, is complimentary. Parking is free.
2020 South Calumet, South Loop
Tel: (312) 945 2020.
Website: www.wheelermansion.com
Price: $$$ (including breakfast and parking)
The South Loop neighbourhood, close to McCormick Place, may be up and coming, but the Wheeler Mansion has arrived. The 130-year-old mansion is now an elegant, 11-room boutique hotel that offers a nice alternative to the big bustling hotels. Its lovely garden area, polished woodwork and special mattresses with goose feather duvets radiate warmth and comfort. Attention to detail is revealed in the property's original artwork and furnishings. Antique dressers function as bathroom vanity units and special amenities include errand service and free shoeshine service. A breakfast feast, such as crusted French toast topped with fruit, fresh juice and pastries, is complimentary. Parking is free.
2020 South Calumet, South Loop
Tel: (312) 945 2020.
Website: www.wheelermansion.com
Price: $$$ (including breakfast and parking)
Luxury
Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
At the Four Seasons, personal service, attention to detail and elegant appointments are basics. The whole hotel is currently undergoing a total renovation. The opulent seventh-floor lobby will take on a French art deco look, while spacious guest rooms in the 46-floor property will include 1940s French décor and, to better enjoy the stunning city and lake vistas, leather window seats. Spanish marble bathrooms will become spa-like. Expect twice-daily maid service, in-room Wi-Fi access and 24-hour technical support. There is an elegant spa and fitness centre and, just an elevator ride away, is the upscale shopping mall anchored by Bloomingdale's, the Shops at 900 North Michigan Avenue.
120 East Delaware Place
Tel: (312) 280 8800.
Website: www.fourseasons.com/chicagofs
Price: $$$$
At the Four Seasons, personal service, attention to detail and elegant appointments are basics. The whole hotel is currently undergoing a total renovation. The opulent seventh-floor lobby will take on a French art deco look, while spacious guest rooms in the 46-floor property will include 1940s French décor and, to better enjoy the stunning city and lake vistas, leather window seats. Spanish marble bathrooms will become spa-like. Expect twice-daily maid service, in-room Wi-Fi access and 24-hour technical support. There is an elegant spa and fitness centre and, just an elevator ride away, is the upscale shopping mall anchored by Bloomingdale's, the Shops at 900 North Michigan Avenue.
120 East Delaware Place
Tel: (312) 280 8800.
Website: www.fourseasons.com/chicagofs
Price: $$$$
Ritz-Carlton Chicago
The Ritz has always been a symbol of luxury and the Ritz-Carlton Chicago is no exception. An award-winning dining room, oversized rooms with a view, Bulgari bath toiletries, state-of-the-art business facilities and 24-hour concierge service are some of the reasons Condé Nast Traveler has named it 'best hotel' in North America for several years running. The hotel provides special rooms for allergy-sensitive guests, a full service spa, cookies and toys for kids and, for four-legged visitors, pet services that include gourmet room service. The hotel also has its comp-cierge service - at just a moment's notice, a technician will render personal computer assistance to guests who require help. Every Saturday night from 2100 to midnight, the Ritz sweetens it up with creative confections like coconut tres leches, hazelnut praline, and raspberry Sacher at the Cupcake Buffet.
160 East Pearson Street
Tel: (312) 266 1000.
Website: www.fourseasons.com/chicagorc
Price: $$$$
The Ritz has always been a symbol of luxury and the Ritz-Carlton Chicago is no exception. An award-winning dining room, oversized rooms with a view, Bulgari bath toiletries, state-of-the-art business facilities and 24-hour concierge service are some of the reasons Condé Nast Traveler has named it 'best hotel' in North America for several years running. The hotel provides special rooms for allergy-sensitive guests, a full service spa, cookies and toys for kids and, for four-legged visitors, pet services that include gourmet room service. The hotel also has its comp-cierge service - at just a moment's notice, a technician will render personal computer assistance to guests who require help. Every Saturday night from 2100 to midnight, the Ritz sweetens it up with creative confections like coconut tres leches, hazelnut praline, and raspberry Sacher at the Cupcake Buffet.
160 East Pearson Street
Tel: (312) 266 1000.
Website: www.fourseasons.com/chicagorc
Price: $$$$
The Peninsula Chicago
Service, discretion, understated elegance and attention to detail have made The Peninsula a sanctuary. The earth-toned guest rooms are spacious, and the bathrooms are equipped with a steam-free TV screen and a hands-free telephone that eliminates the sound of water. The fifth-floor main lobby, with its 6m- (20ft-) high ceilings, elongated French windows and huge metal mural, is the stylish place to meet for a meal or cocktails. During afternoon tea, live classical music adds to its ambience. The granite, mahogany and black leather Bar, the Asian-flared Shanghai Terrace and the upscale Avenues complete the hotel's gourmet offerings. A 1,300sq m (14,000sq ft) spa and adjoining fitness centre serve the needs of the tired traveller or fitness fanatic.
108 East Superior Street
Tel: (312) 337 2888.
Website: www.peninsula.com
Price: $$$$
Service, discretion, understated elegance and attention to detail have made The Peninsula a sanctuary. The earth-toned guest rooms are spacious, and the bathrooms are equipped with a steam-free TV screen and a hands-free telephone that eliminates the sound of water. The fifth-floor main lobby, with its 6m- (20ft-) high ceilings, elongated French windows and huge metal mural, is the stylish place to meet for a meal or cocktails. During afternoon tea, live classical music adds to its ambience. The granite, mahogany and black leather Bar, the Asian-flared Shanghai Terrace and the upscale Avenues complete the hotel's gourmet offerings. A 1,300sq m (14,000sq ft) spa and adjoining fitness centre serve the needs of the tired traveller or fitness fanatic.
108 East Superior Street
Tel: (312) 337 2888.
Website: www.peninsula.com
Price: $$$$
Moderate
Best Western River North
The friendly-staffed Best Western River North is a find. It has a great location, a little west of the Magnificent Mile, and it is of exceptional value. Spacious, pastel coloured, modern-styled rooms are well appointed with a work area, free high speed Internet access, free in-room movies, coffeemakers and 30 minutes of free local calls. In addition, the hotel provides free parking, fitness room and indoor pool. Pizzeria Ora, its onsite restaurant, specialises in Chicago-style deep dish pizza, plus it is walking distance from fine restaurants, shopping, attractions and Navy Pier.
125 West Ohio Street
Tel: (312) 467 0800 or 1 800 704 6941.
Website: www.rivernorthhotel.com
Price: $
The friendly-staffed Best Western River North is a find. It has a great location, a little west of the Magnificent Mile, and it is of exceptional value. Spacious, pastel coloured, modern-styled rooms are well appointed with a work area, free high speed Internet access, free in-room movies, coffeemakers and 30 minutes of free local calls. In addition, the hotel provides free parking, fitness room and indoor pool. Pizzeria Ora, its onsite restaurant, specialises in Chicago-style deep dish pizza, plus it is walking distance from fine restaurants, shopping, attractions and Navy Pier.
125 West Ohio Street
Tel: (312) 467 0800 or 1 800 704 6941.
Website: www.rivernorthhotel.com
Price: $
Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown-Lakefront
Conveniently located between Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue, the modern Embassy Suites meets the needs of the business traveller. Its airy, 17-floor atrium lobby, with fountains and reflecting pool, is just the place to unwind after a busy day. Enclosed glass elevators reveal city and lake views, as do the comfortably furnished, two-room suites, which are standard. Amenities include high-speed Internet access and two-line phones with voice-mail. The complimentary fitness centre, a nightly manager's reception and a full American breakfast make a stay at the Embassy Suites good value.
511 North Columbus Drive
Tel: (312) 836 5900.
Website: www.embassysuites.com
Price: $$
Conveniently located between Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue, the modern Embassy Suites meets the needs of the business traveller. Its airy, 17-floor atrium lobby, with fountains and reflecting pool, is just the place to unwind after a busy day. Enclosed glass elevators reveal city and lake views, as do the comfortably furnished, two-room suites, which are standard. Amenities include high-speed Internet access and two-line phones with voice-mail. The complimentary fitness centre, a nightly manager's reception and a full American breakfast make a stay at the Embassy Suites good value.
511 North Columbus Drive
Tel: (312) 836 5900.
Website: www.embassysuites.com
Price: $$
Red Roof Inn
Located one block east of Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile, the Red Roof Inn may be the perfect lodging for the budget-minded traveller needing a prime location. The 80-year-old property has been renovated. Clean rooms are small but adequate and each comes with a modem point, desk, microwave, coffee-maker, micro-fridge, cable TV and free local calls. There is a small charge for fax and photocopying services. No food service is available but the hotel is next door to Coco Pazzo Café (open for lunch and dinner) and within walking distance of other restaurants, the lake, Navy Pier, shopping and entertainment.
162 East Ontario Street
Tel: (312) 787 3580.
Website: www.redroof-chicago-downtown.com
Price: $
Located one block east of Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile, the Red Roof Inn may be the perfect lodging for the budget-minded traveller needing a prime location. The 80-year-old property has been renovated. Clean rooms are small but adequate and each comes with a modem point, desk, microwave, coffee-maker, micro-fridge, cable TV and free local calls. There is a small charge for fax and photocopying services. No food service is available but the hotel is next door to Coco Pazzo Café (open for lunch and dinner) and within walking distance of other restaurants, the lake, Navy Pier, shopping and entertainment.
162 East Ontario Street
Tel: (312) 787 3580.
Website: www.redroof-chicago-downtown.com
Price: $
Other Recommendations
The Drake
Long before the plethora of luxury hotels sprang up on Michigan Avenue, there was The Drake. Its elegance made it the destination of famous people, such as Princess Diana and before her, Marilyn Monroe. The Palm Court is still the place to meet for afternoon tea, and The Cape Cod Room serves excellent seafood. Public areas have been revitalised and now include wireless access. Newly enlarged rooms, half of which face the lakefront, have been equipped with in-room high-speed Internet access. Extras include fresh fruit on every floor, workout facilities and the use of the Red Door Spa.
140 East Walton Place
Tel: (312) 787 2200 or 1 800 553 7253.
Website: www.thedrakehotel.com
Price: $$
Long before the plethora of luxury hotels sprang up on Michigan Avenue, there was The Drake. Its elegance made it the destination of famous people, such as Princess Diana and before her, Marilyn Monroe. The Palm Court is still the place to meet for afternoon tea, and The Cape Cod Room serves excellent seafood. Public areas have been revitalised and now include wireless access. Newly enlarged rooms, half of which face the lakefront, have been equipped with in-room high-speed Internet access. Extras include fresh fruit on every floor, workout facilities and the use of the Red Door Spa.
140 East Walton Place
Tel: (312) 787 2200 or 1 800 553 7253.
Website: www.thedrakehotel.com
Price: $$
The Hard Rock Hotel
The staid 1929 Carbon and Carbide Building has reinvented itself and is now a sleek hotel. The 383-room, 13-suite musically-themed, contemporary venue pulsates with excitement. Piped-in music and rock & roll memorabilia are everywhere. Cushy leather couches and open space give the lobby a feeling of warmth and comfort. Rooms with zebra wood furnishings are accented in greys, blues, chrome, wood, mirrors and rock'n'roll artwork. Matchless Downtown vistas, flat screen television, and state-of-the-art amenities are standard, as is the business centre and fitness facility. China Grill, the hotel's trendy restaurant, combines Asian fusion fare with a comfortable setting.
230 North Michigan
Tel: (312) 345 1000.
Website: www.hardrockhotelchicago.com
Price: $$
The staid 1929 Carbon and Carbide Building has reinvented itself and is now a sleek hotel. The 383-room, 13-suite musically-themed, contemporary venue pulsates with excitement. Piped-in music and rock & roll memorabilia are everywhere. Cushy leather couches and open space give the lobby a feeling of warmth and comfort. Rooms with zebra wood furnishings are accented in greys, blues, chrome, wood, mirrors and rock'n'roll artwork. Matchless Downtown vistas, flat screen television, and state-of-the-art amenities are standard, as is the business centre and fitness facility. China Grill, the hotel's trendy restaurant, combines Asian fusion fare with a comfortable setting.
230 North Michigan
Tel: (312) 345 1000.
Website: www.hardrockhotelchicago.com
Price: $$
The James
Modern, sleek, compact and comfortable, The James is a nice departure from the big, glitzy chains. The narrow lobby has a clean and clubby look about it as does the adjacent, complimentary business centre and the J Bar. Rooms are designed to be more homey than hotelish. They are minimalist but comfortable with platform beds covered with down comforters, snack and cocktail bar, a dining niche, plasma TV, stereo with iPod/MP3 hook-ups, free Wi-Fi and marble bathrooms. Located next to the spa is a state-of-the-art workout room. The hotel restaurant, David Berk's Primehouse, is a meat-eater's delight.
55 East Ontario
Tel: (312) 337 1000.
Website: www.jameshotels.com/chicago
Price: $$$-$$$$
Modern, sleek, compact and comfortable, The James is a nice departure from the big, glitzy chains. The narrow lobby has a clean and clubby look about it as does the adjacent, complimentary business centre and the J Bar. Rooms are designed to be more homey than hotelish. They are minimalist but comfortable with platform beds covered with down comforters, snack and cocktail bar, a dining niche, plasma TV, stereo with iPod/MP3 hook-ups, free Wi-Fi and marble bathrooms. Located next to the spa is a state-of-the-art workout room. The hotel restaurant, David Berk's Primehouse, is a meat-eater's delight.
55 East Ontario
Tel: (312) 337 1000.
Website: www.jameshotels.com/chicago
Price: $$$-$$$$
Park Hyatt Chicago
The look may be traditional European but this elegant boutique hotel is strictly modern American. Rich woods and warm tones create comfortable and tranquil public areas. Throughout the hotel, there is original contemporary art including the lobby's Piazza del Duomo, Milan by Gerhard Richter. Because the hotel rises over Water Tower Square, dramatic lake and city views are standard in the state-of-the-art rooms. So are oversized soaking tubs, flat-screen TVs, DVD and CD players. Guests will find great attention to detail, exceptional personal service and handsome décor. A bilingual staff accommodates foreign as well as local visitors as does the hotel's full-service spa and award-winning restaurant, NoMI.
800 North Michigan Avenue
Tel: (312) 335 1234.
Website: http://parkchicago.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp
Price: $$$$
The look may be traditional European but this elegant boutique hotel is strictly modern American. Rich woods and warm tones create comfortable and tranquil public areas. Throughout the hotel, there is original contemporary art including the lobby's Piazza del Duomo, Milan by Gerhard Richter. Because the hotel rises over Water Tower Square, dramatic lake and city views are standard in the state-of-the-art rooms. So are oversized soaking tubs, flat-screen TVs, DVD and CD players. Guests will find great attention to detail, exceptional personal service and handsome décor. A bilingual staff accommodates foreign as well as local visitors as does the hotel's full-service spa and award-winning restaurant, NoMI.
800 North Michigan Avenue
Tel: (312) 335 1234.
Website: http://parkchicago.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp
Price: $$$$
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