My friend and I will be spending a weekend in Chicago this August and are looking for a safe, reasonably priced hotel. We don't need suggestions for activities: two married women who have left the husbands and kids at home = shopping, shopping, shopping.

In the past we have stayed at the Palmer House which has a great location but we thought we'd look for something around the $100/night range (or less) to allow for more spending money. Our main criteria is to be within walking distance of the Magnificent Mile but more importantly to be able to walk there alone after dark. Any suggestions?

We like the Inn of Chicago (a Best Western Hotel) We have been to Chicago 6 times and have stayed there twice). It is right off of Michigan Avenue and is a delightful clean hotel. I't can't compare to the Palmer (we've stayed there twice too - man, what a treat that was!!!!), but the convenience factor and low cost of the Inn of Chicago is fantastic!!! Right in the heart of things. We used our Passbook Clubs of American and were able to get a rate of $96 per night this past December. I hope this works for you. Have a great time!!!!! You are going to one of the best cities in the World!!!!!!!!!

We are staying at the Inn of Chicago next week (Best Western from message above). Got a rate of $130/night for a suite through HotRooms. They have a rate of $89/night for a regular room. www.hotrooms.com

The Inn of Chicago is great (ask for a corner room when you check in). If it's full, or you don't like the rate, there's a high-rise Motel 6 next door of similar, if more basic, quality.

Brian--The Inn is in fact full the weekend we will be traveling. Is the Motel 6 directly next door? Julie

I don't remember if it's just around the corner or across the street. It's VERY close though. I would consider both to be in the same location.

You might also try Lenox House and the Embassy Suites. Both are just west of Michigan in the same mid-north location. Very safe and convenient. Sometimes the Raphael, east of Michigan up toward the Hancock, has good rates.

I live in the Chgo. suburbs, and also like the Inn of Chicago. Another place we loved was the Holiday Inn, City Centre.They have a great pool area.The address is 300 E. Ohio St., Chgo 60611. I have a phone of 312/787-6100. We enjoyed this, and it is as safe as any in downtown. (North) If I can look up something specific--just e-mail me.