Fodor's Expert Review Dukes at Queens

Although it retains its distinguished redbrick Victorian facade, the inside of this handsome hotel on bohemian Botanic Avenue has been revamped in a cool contemporary style with chic, modern guest rooms. The hotel is popular both with weekenders and the smart business set. Villeroy & Boch bathrooms add bliss with drench showers, while swank and comfy Rolf Benz swivel armchairs are added bonuses. The main public areas, including the bar and restaurant, have been refreshed and renamed The Practitioner in honor of an eccentric physician who dedicated his life to studying botanicals. Some cocktails are inspired by his herbal interests. The hotel's location is perfect: Queen's University and the Botanic Gardens are a five-minute stroll away, and if you want to eat out you can wander the leafy streets and choose from Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Italian, and Irish restaurants.