The Blackstone Hotel

Housed in a 1910 beaux arts building across the street from Grant Park, this ornate hotel is 0.8 miles from natural history exhibits at the Field Museum, and a mile from Willis Tower.

Sophisticated rooms (some with lake views) offer flat-screens TVs, iPod docks and Wi-Fi (fee), as well as minifridges and coffeemakers. Club rooms provide access to a lounge with free continental breakfast and snacks. Suites add separate living spaces, and some have fireplaces. Room service is available.

There's a contemporary Spanish restaurant and a laid-back coffee shop. Other amenities include a 24-hour exercise room, a business center and 9 meeting rooms.

A contemporary 4-star hotel.