Have finally narrowed my choices down to 3 hotels (actually have reservations at all 3 - cancellable:

1)Hard Rock Hotel
2)Homewood Suites Downtown
3)Hilton Suites Chicago/Magnificent Mile

Any feedback on the 3 for access to subway, restaurants,bars etc? All 3 are around the same rate so I am not concerned about price.

In the search box, type in "Homewood Suites" and look at the 8th thread in the list.

Had seen that thread. Thats when I booked the rooms there. Its just been tough to decide b/w there and the Hard Rock as they are close in location and price. The Hilton is just a backup as I realize it is not close to the subway.

My thinking is that for 4 30 year old guys, Hard Rock may have the better atmosphere and worth the slightly higher cost but then when you take into account, the free breakfast at Homewood Suites, is it worth the extra money.

Not that breakfast. If you're lucky, you'll find a table in the cramped room. They may refill food when it's run out, maybe not. I had a miserable stay with a group of friends at the Homewood Suites and would not send a group there. The slop served as "breakfast" was atrocious. The elevators were always slow, broken or full. Our bill was messed up and they were rude. Great location, though! Probably the worst place I've ever stayed in Chicago.

We decided to go with the Hard Rock Hotel last night. Figured it was a better atmosphere.

(probably a bit late, but)

Have you looked at the Marriott Residence Inn, River North? Brand new and very nice indeed. Decent free breakfast. Lovely suites.

Had looked but got much better rates for these 3 hotels.

You'll feel like a rock star at the Hard Rock. Great old building, too.

You made the right choice.