The Best Hotels in Chicago: Top 5 List

Kofi Bofah
Chicago, as an architectural hub, is a prime destination for the world's best hotels. In Chicago, you will find that the luxury hotel market offers countless options, in terms of opulence, finery, and overall grace. The best of the best hotels in Chicago, however, offer distinctions that set them head and shoulders above an already crowded pack. You will find that Chicago's best hotels are located near Michigan Avenue and the River North neighborhood.

#5 Best Hotel in Chicago: The W Chicago Lakeshore

The sleek W Chicago Lakeshore stands juxtaposed against Lake Michigan - at the corner of Lake Shore Drive and Ontario Street. From this location, you are easily within walking distance of both Northwestern University's downtown campus and Navy Pier. A favorite of young professionals, The W combines fine hotel amenities alongside the chic appeal of a trendy nightclub. Inside, the beautiful people are mingling over drinks at the W's Whiskey Sky bar and Wave restaurant. Guest room décor is minimalist and modern - with splashes of color for furnishings, artwork, and bedding. As a guest, you may enjoy the Extreme Wow Suite, which is made complete with 1,100 square feet of space, two bedrooms, one dining room, and panoramic views of Lake Michigan.

The W Chicago Lakeshore

644 N. Lake Shore Dr.

Chicago, IL 60611

(312) 943-9200

starwoodhotels.com

#4 Best Hotel in Chicago: The Park Hyatt Chicago

The Park Hyatt Chicago is understated elegance. From its Magnificent Mile location, the Park Hyatt greets guests with warm ambience, classic works of art, and plush furnishings. As a distinguished visitor to Chicago, you will enjoy power dining at the NoMI restaurant and bar that overlooks Michigan Avenue. After closing the deal, your room awaits. Park Hyatt Chicago room amenities include oversized work desks, large safes, marble baths, and stereo systems. The Lake Suite is a favorite of discriminating guests - with its striking views of Lake Michigan, marble foyer, cordoned off living room, and butler service.

The Park Hyatt Chicago

Water Tower Square

800 N. Michigan Ave.

Chicago, IL 60611

(312) 335-1234

parkchicago.hyatt.com

#3 Best Hotel in Chicago: The Ritz-Carlton Chicago

The Ritz-Carlton Chicago lords directly over Water Tower Place - at the very heart of Michigan Avenue shopping. The opulent Ritz hotel lobby overlooks America's most beautiful street with rich mahogany woods, fine ceiling tapestry, and brass metal work. The Ritz-Carlton Chicago features 524 rooms and suites that are each appointed with sweeping views of the cityscape, marble bathrooms, flat panel televisions, and wireless internet access. For entertaining, you may prefer the Superior Lakeside One-Bedroom suite. This suite features 1,000 square feet of space, one separate living room area, and unobstructed sightlines of Lake Michigan.

The Ritz Carlton

160 E. Pearson St.

Chicago, IL 60611

(312) 266-1000

fourseasons.com/chicagorc/

#2 Best Hotel in Chicago: The Peninsula Chicago

With its Michigan Avenue location, soothing off-white color scheme, and decadent spa treatments, the Peninsula Chicago was built for leisure and romance. In terms of restaurant dining, the Peninsula offers four separate options for your palette, in the form of Avenues, Shanghai Terrace, The Terrace, and The Lobby. Indeed, High Tea at The Lobby remains a standby for Chicago's elite. Away from the bustle, room décor features clean lines, cherry wood paneling, and classic style. The Peninsula is a fine respite from city life.

The Peninsula Chicago

108 E. Superior St.

Chicago, IL 60611

(312) 337-2888

peninsula.com

#1 Best Hotel in Chicago: The Drake

A fixture of the Chicago skyline, the Drake looms over Michigan Avenue, Oak Street Beach, and Lake Shore Drive as the Windy City's finest hotel. At Oak Street, you will find Chicago's most stunning collections of art and high-end boutiques. Continuing along Oak, you will run into Rush Street, which is yet another haven for fine dining and chic nightlife. At the Drake, ornate tapestry, custom woodwork, and a helpful staff will greet you in the lobby. Each room is outfitted with crown molding, Italian marble, and soft upholstery. The Drake is world famous for its Presidential and Princess Diana suites, which are the preferred mode of travel for international dignitaries. The Drake is pure elegance.

The Drake

140 E. Walton Pl.

Chicago, IL 60611

(312) 787-2200

thedrakehotel.com

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Published by Kofi Bofah

Kofi Bofah has been writing Internet content for one year. His articles appear on Associated Content and eHow, Trails and GolfLink via Demand Studios. He is originally from Silver Spring, Maryland. This...  View profile

1 Comments

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  • L B Woodgate3/1/2011

    Good article Kofi but my budget will only accommodate Motel 6

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