I agree with Gardendiva. Hubby and I stayed at The River hotel last August, rooms were small but the place was very clean, nice people, and there is a restaurant. I think the parking was around $40 a night. Volare is the best!!! You might want to make reservations. We are going at the end of January, we are staying at the Hilton Garden Inn and we are having dinner at Volare. I looked at The Intercontinental Hotel, The Palomar Hotel and the Embassy Suites Lakeview. They all look great. I chose the Hilton Garden Inn because it is close to a couple irish bars and restaurants we want to visit, parking is $45 a night.We are going to see Late Night Catechism at the Royal George Theater heard it is really funny. Parking is expensive so definately plan for that. I googled chicago hotels and put where I wanted to stay, just do some research and have fun for your anniversary!!

I recently stayed at the Park Hyatt. It's very nice, but I didn't find it particularly "special" -- and my cell and email service (AT&T) were downright horrible in my room. I have also stayed at the Sheraton (as described above - big convention-type hotel, perfectly nice), Marriott (same, but right on Michigan Avenue), Swissotel (same, but maybe a little more upscale -- I had a great view of the fireworks from my room), Westin River North, Holiday Inn Merchandise Mart, and others. All of these are similar to their counterparts in other big cities, big, impersonal, but comfortable, well-located and functional. Among that category of hotel, I'd choose by price.

As I am starting to narrow my choices I have decided to stay away from convention type hotels. Currently looking at The James and The Peninsula.

Thanks so much for helping, great suggestions. Will post soon.

Vittoria....we are going to Chicago to celebrate our 25th Anniversary too this year...in April:) We are flying in and want to stay on the Magnificent Mile...thinking about the Doubletree Hotel...we want to be within walking distance to many things including the Navy Pier. Anyone have any thoughts on the Doubletree on Ohio?

Thanks!

Congratulations! Try the Avenue Hotel Crowne Plaza. It's has a great location in downtown Chicago close to all the good shopping, bars, restaurants, etc. The rooms are really large and the beds are so comfortable and the Sky Lounge is a great place for a cocktail and a view! Have Fun