Fodor's Expert Review The Palmer House Hilton

The epitome of a grande dame, this massive property in the center of the Loop recently underwent a $215-million renovation, but the lobby—with its wow-worthy ceiling mural and lots of gold, marble, and tapestry—preserves the original splendor. Guest rooms, which aren't quite as glitzy, have a boutique-hotel feel. This is the longest continually operating hotel in the United States; it's also the place where brownies were invented in 1893, thanks to socialite Bertha Palmer. The Palmer House celebrates its history along with its more modern attributes, among them a 10,000-square-foot fitness center and spa.