Rob

I would like to stay in a good quality hotel which is close to Chicago's nightlife (bars/clubs) - but want to stay in a safe area. Any suggestions?

Jerry

Yes.
Most anything within 3 blocks of North Michigan Avenue will solve your problem.

Doug

Rob, check out Priceline.com (Do your homework before bidding and compare where you want to be vs the areas Priceline divides the city into.) The Magnificent Miles area is very convenient & SAFE. It's well lit at night and there are lots of people on the streets at night (I don't n\mean "street people!" I mean people walking from the theater, dinner, shopping etc.) You can easily walk to the House of Blues etc. Depending on when you need to be there you should be able to book a 4* hotel (2 people per room) for under $100. I found that Chicago is a very easy city to get around in, and very walkable (or grab a cab for longer treks)

Sara

I stayed at the Omni once when I was going to Chicago for a weekend. It is right near Division St. (where lots of fun bars are) and it very nice. I found it online for well under $200 but I don't know what they would be going for now. It is a very nice area and walking distance to the fun but cabs are right outside. The doorman will hail one for you and it is very inexpensive to go anywhere in the downtown area.

Faith

We stayed at the Hampton Inn in the River North area. It was within walking distance of a lot of places, near the L, and a cab ride was inexpensive.

Lisa

The Fitzpatrick, is only a block off Mich Ave and is within walking distance of nightlife and shopping. Very friendly staff, parking(28) across the street. We paid about $125 in March.

Dan

I'd reccommend hotrooms.com, great prices.
Le Meridien has some specials through the end of the year for $115.