What's wrong with "Chi-town"? Is it something locals bristle at? Most people I know who use the term use it are neither members of the mafiosa or rubes.

I stayed at the Allerton in 1994, and found it to be in a great location, and was satisfied with the room. For the money, I wasn't expecting luxury. It was clean, and fairly large. So now that it's been renovated, it must really be a good bargain.

Just: We have stayed at the Best Western toward the lake (there are two) several times. They are perfectly adequate and have a reduced weekend rate. The restaurant across the street is very good for breakfast and quick meals.

A few years back I stayed at the Executive Tower (might be called the Executive Plaza). It's a couple short blocks west of the Hyatt Regency, on Wacker Drive across from the Wrigley Building. Great location and a very nice property. I paid about $130 for a single and would think you could still get a room for 4 people at under $200.

Sarah - whereever you end up, be forewarned, there is MAJOR construction on Wacker Drive (which is directly south of the river in the Loop) and having worked from an office directly above it, I can confirm it is LOUD.

The HOB is not too far from Wacker, so if you make reservations, you may want to check on noise level and/or leverage that knowledge to get a cheaper room.

If you don't mind the noise, both the Monaco (new, very cool and fun for 20-somethings) and the Renaissance are on Wacker and maybe the noise would discourage bookings leading you to be able to negotiate a lower rate.

Both of these are a few blocks from Michigan Avenue, so you wouldn't be quite in the heart of anything, though.

Thank you everyone for your feedback (especially Gina). We called the HOB and confirmed that there will be construction going on during our stay. Due to this, the hotel agreed to lower our room rate!!!

I'll post a trip report when we return.

Hey Sarah,
Only living 150 miles south of Chicago, we usually go stay at the Downtown Marriott or the Palmer House which are both centrally located near Michigan Ave. We also come up here to go shopping. Your right about the HOB(I feel the same way too). We're not old either, but like the tall & "classy" hotels which are under or around $200. Great nightlife in Chicago, you'll enjoy your stay wherever you go to....Enjoy your trip and have fun!!!