Designed by French architect Jean-Paul Viguier, the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower is as magnificent as the view it offers. From meeting rooms and internet access for the business traveler to a fitness center for those on vacation, this stylish hotel has it all. There's even a bar and a French restaurant. Its location in the downtown area is an added advantage for those who want to explore the lively city. Visit monuments, operas, concert halls, the zoo and a whole lot of other attractions. So, think of this hotel the next time you're in Chicago.

The Marriott Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile has both wonderful common areas and well equipped guest rooms. The lobby includes a coffee bar, cigar bar, two restaurants and a galleria of shops. The guest rooms boast modern furniture, carpeting, and bathroom amenities. In addition to the multitude of attractions nearby, hotel guests can also enjoy an indoor pool, sun deck, outdoor sports deck, spa, and basketball courts on the premises.

Only one block off the Magnificent Mile and half a mile north of the Loop business district, the newest Hilton in Chicago appeals to both business travelers and families. The thoroughly modern and comfortable lobby exemplifies the entire hotel. The guest rooms feature over-sized desks, retractable stands for laptop computers, two phones, modem ports and microwaves. An indoor pool and whirlpool are on the hotel's premises.

Originally built in 1928, the Whitehall was recently restored to its original grandeur. It now provides a perfect combination of historic elegance and modern luxury. The 221 rooms feature traditional 18th-century English-style furnishings and have spectacular views. There is a wealth of options to suit most budgets from the unbridled opulence of the Delaware and Pinnacle Suites to the more affordable, but no less affluent Superior Suites. It is conveniently located in the Gold Coast, near the Magnificent Mile, Water Tower Place and the lakefront. Moreover, the McCormick Place Convention Center is just a 15-minute cab drive away.

This hotel is conveniently located in the downtown area, adjacent to the Theater District. The ambiance is elegant and tasteful, and the service is fast and friendly. The guest rooms boast unique amenities with marble accents and stunning skyline views of the city's architecture. Guests can also relax at the indoor pool or make an appointment at the spa. The bar is a trendy and distinguished night-life scene serving delectable dishes and creative cocktails.

Hotel Monaco is a charming hotel close to the Loop, River North and the Magnificent Mile, and has a great view of the Chicago River. The French Art Deco style and lush furnishings provide elegance and warmth throughout. Special touches for the weary traveler are everywhere here, like goldfish at the front desk-visitors desiring companionship can bring a fishbowl back to their rooms. Whether you choose a suite or just a deluxe room you can expect intriguing comforts like window nooks that double as meditation areas, fancy writing desks and, just in case it rains, an umbrella. The suites also have jetted tubs.

The Hilton Suites Chicago is an upscale all-suite property in a prime downtown Chicago location within walking distance on many Windy City hot spots. This renovated hotel provides comfortable, well-appointed two-room guest suites and executive accommodations. Enjoy stunning city and lake views from the 30th floor rooftop fitness center, featuring a heated indoor pool, sauna and whirlpool. Over 10,000 square feet (2787 square meters) of flexible meeting and banquet space can easily accommodate groups of up to 400 people. Dining options include: The Down Bar, Blenz Coffee Bar and Pastry Shop and Mrs. Park's Tavern.

The exquisite chandeliers high above the Rococo interior peer down on you with pomp and grandeur in the elegant lobby. Built in 1927, this hotel reflects an era that once defined opulence in America with all the modern amenities, comfort and service that Hilton has to offer. The rooms are plush, too, but usually come with a price to match. However, weekend deals can be quite affordable. If you choose to stay elsewhere in the city, at least stop by the hotel's lobby to check out the architecture. There are four on site dining and lounge options to suit your every mood.

The term boutique hotel may conjure up images of quaint, country inns, but Hotel Allegro is far from kitschy and rural. In fact, it is the epitome of urban luxury and style. The historic 1894 building is situated in the Theater District has Art Deco rooms that look straight out of a postmodern painting. The rooms are suited to business travelers, and feature such amenities as cherry wood desks and fax machines. The suites have whirlpool bathtubs. For a true night of something different opt for one of the theme suites.

For a hotel of this caliber, you may be surprised to find that a few nights here, in one of their 347 fine suites, could be within your budget. Experience the daytime bustle of the city, and then come home to an intimate retreat in a real Chicago neighborhood. A luxurious and sophisticated four-diamond hotel located on Chicago's "Magnificent Mile," it is close to a ton of what the city has to offer, including world class shopping, museums such as the Art Institute of Chicago and attractions like HARPO Studios, home to the Oprah show. The hotel also boasts an indoor swimming pool as well as the renowned 676 Restaurant.