Opened in late 2010, this upscale hotel is housed in a historic neoclassical-style building with crystal chandeliers and a grand staircase in the lobby. But sophisticated rooms are thoroughly modern, and big, elegant bathrooms have separate showers and soaking tubs. The Loop location is convenient for business travelers, and the pool and 24-four fitness center is top-notch.

This mid-range hotel is centrally located in The Loop, on the northern edge of Chicago's Theatre District. Its 357 rooms — renovated in 2011 — are comfortable and spacious (though a tad generic for the price), and come with updated amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and iPod docks. The bright fitness center with great river and city views, the casual Hoyt’s restaurant, and its wonderful location make this a great pick, but for more stylish rooms, consider the often similarly priced Hard Rock Hotel Chicago, Allegro Chicago Hotel, or Hotel Monaco.

This 1,639-room historic hotel in the Loop has a storied past, and a breathtaking lobby with a painted ceiling and glittering chandeliers. But room quality is uneven -- some rooms still have dated decor and tube TVs -- and all the extra fees can add up. If you don't mind sacrificing the history, it's worth considering the similarly priced Hotel Monaco or Fairmont.

Like other hotel's in Starwood's boutique-inspired luxury brand, commons spaces in W Chicago - City Center impress with a whimsical blend of Beaux-Arts architecture and trendy, modern details. The hotel has an on-site restaurant, a lively bar and lounge, a host of meeting and event rooms, a business center, and a modern gym. Its 369 guest rooms and suites can feel comparatively small and bland, especially the entry-level option, though they have nice amenities like 42-inch flat-screen TVs and minibars (but no coffeemakers), not to mention the W brand's signature comfy beds. Expect some hefty extra fees for things like parking, pet stays, breakfast, and even in-room Wi-Fi. The location in The Loop is exceptional. The JW Marriott Chicago is a nearby alternative, featuring more straightforward decor but larger rooms and an on-site pool and spa.

Housed in the Carbide & Carbon building -- a Chicago landmark supposedly inspired by the design of a champagne bottle -- the Hard Rock stands out among the rest of Chicago's hotels. Inside, the property is sophisticated, stylish, and fun, with some original art deco embellishments on the floor and, of course, the rock-n-roll paraphernalia. Each floor showcases a different recording artist -- from Prince, to John Lennon, to Madonna -- and each of the 381 contemporary rooms has theme-appropriate touches, such as notable quotes on the mirrors. Located in the heart of the Chicago's business district, this Hard Rock is a popular choice with business travelers, and consequently, many meeting spaces can be found on-site.