Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Encore, the Jetsons-esque cafe that hosts DJs at night, or at the complimentary
evening wine reception in the lobby. The hotel's restaurant, 312 Chicago
(p. 117), attracts nonguests in search of excellent Italian cuisine.
171 W. Randolph St. (at LaSalle St.), Chicago, IL 60601.
&
800/643-1500
or 312/236-0123. Fax 312/236-
0917. www.allegrochicago.com. 483 units. $149-$299 double; $225-$399 suite. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Valet
parking $30 with in/out privileges. Subway/El: All lines to Washington. Small pets allowed.
Amenities:
Restaurant (northern Italian); lounge; exercise room (and access to nearby health club w/indoor pool);
concierge; business center; salon; limited room service; same-day laundry service; dry cleaning. In room: A/C,
TV w/pay movies, high-speed Internet access (upon request), minibar, coffeemaker, hair dryer, iron.
2 South Loop
For accommodations listed in this section, see map “Where to Stay in Chicago” p. 84.
The South Loop is less about glamour and more about old Chicago. Running
the length of Grant Park, South Michigan Avenue is ideal for a long city stroll,
passing grand museums, imposing architecture, and the park's greenery and stat-
uary. But the overall feel is stately rather than lively. Over the last decade, how-
ever, the surrounding neighborhood has revitalized itself with the conversion of
industrial buildings into loft apartments. Old-timers might complain about gen-
trification, but it's good news for visitors who can now find more restaurant
options and a more active street life.
EXPENSIVE
Hilton Chicago
When it opened in 1927, this massive brick-and-stone
edifice billed itself as the largest hotel in the world. Today, the Hilton still runs
like a small city, with numerous restaurants and shops and a steady stream of
conventioneers. Its colorful history includes visits by Queen Elizabeth, Emperor
Hirohito, and every president since FDR—and riots outside its front door dur-
ing the 1968 Democratic Convention. The classical-rococo public spaces—
Kids
Family-Friendly Hotels
Chicago has plenty of options for families on the go. The
Hampton Inn
& Suites
(p. 101) keeps the kids in a good mood with a pool, Nintendo,
and proximity to the Hard Rock Cafe and the Rainforest Cafe. Children
under 18 stay free in parent's room. Kiddies also stay free at the
Holi-
day Inn-Chicago City Centre
(p. 98), which has a large outdoor pool
and is near Navy Pier and the beach.
When you want a little extra room to spread out, both
Homewood
Suites
(p. 99) and
Embassy Suites
(p. 100) offer affordable ways to
travel en masse (and keep your sanity).
Of course, luxury hotels can afford to be friendly to all of their
guests. At the
Four Seasons
(p. 91), kids are indulged with little robes,
balloon animals, Nintendo, and milk and cookies; the hotel also has a
wonderful pool. The concierge at the
Ritz-Carlton
(p. 93) keeps a stash
of toys and games for younger guests to borrow, and kids' menu items
are available 24 hours; the hotel even provides a special gift pack just
for teenage guests. The upscale
Westin Chicago River North
(p. 101)
and the
Omni Ambassador East
(p. 102) also cater to families with baby
accessories and programs for older kids, respectively.
