Next Best Place to Stay in Chicago?
 

I just tried to book a room on Hotrooms.com for the Drake hotel in Chicago, and no luck- sold out supposedly at their cheaper rate. I have never been to Chicago, we have tickets for the Van Gogh/Gauguin and I can't wait! Which hotel would be nice for a weekend in late October?We won't have a car and would like to be in the center of things( up to $150 a night?) Any suggestions?

You certainly have good taste - the Drake is one of the most exclusive hotels in the city! We like the Hilton Garden Inn, located on Grand Avenue. It is not extremely fancy, but it is new, clean, and very nice. There is so much to see in Chicago that you'll never be in your room. We've gotten a good weekend rate there - I think around 200.00 Also - we think it is in a GREAT location - across from the new Nordstrom shopping complex, near DisneyQuest and ESPN Zone, and a short short walk to the heart of Michigan Avenue. It is also around the corner from a great restaurant - Joes Stone Crab.

We stayed at the Marriott right on the magnificent mile. We were able to walk to just about any destination we were interested in. Cabs were very convenient and not overly expensive for further jaunts.

Here's my vote for the Homewood Suites which is just between the Marriott and the Hilton Garden Inn (overlooking Nordstrom's). It's a suite hotel which includes breakfast and even light supper if you're so inclined. Very understated, excellent accomodations. Operated by Hilton if you're a frequent guest.

I suggest hotels on the north end of the mag mile. These are most convenient to shopping entertainment (other than Art Institute and museums) and restaurants. The Intercontinental is is nice. Four Seasons is hands down the best but very expensive. Look at Westin or Lennox Suites or for less money the Red Roof Inn. further south, I like the Renaissance whih is a short walk up mag mile. Just off mag mile but nie are the House of Blues Hotel and Embassy suites (a great pick for families) Down by the Art Institute but away from mag mile is Hilton Tower or Palmer House Hilton.

Mary: Also try www.quickbook.com for some deals.