Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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2002 renovation integrated the two sides into a cohesiv e whole, giving the public spaces
a more unified, upscale look.
A soaring, four-stor y r otunda, topped b y a 50-foot-wide dome, ser ves as the entr y
point to the hotel, providing a suitably dramatic welcome. Guest rooms have two distinct
identities, depending on location. R ooms in what 's called the M ain Building (the '60s
addition) have an elegant, urban style, with lots of dark wood, deep yellow walls, and red
velvet banquettes. The bathrooms feel brand-ne w but ar en't particularly spacious, with
small tubs. Rooms in the H istoric Tower (the original building) hav e a more old-world
feel: elaborately car ved headboar ds, gold accents, and deep-r ed-and-cream drapes and
bedding. The bathrooms, however, are completely modern; most come with both a tub
and a separate, larger shower stall. (You'll pay about $50 more for rooms in the Historic
Tow e r. )
While you're here, treat your kids to a swim in the city 's best pool: The InterConti-
nental's main claim to fame is the junior Olympic-size pool on the top floor. One of the
first aboveground swimming pools ev er built, it's decorated in a lavish “ Venetian” style,
with mosaics, marble columns, and painted tiles. Also be sur e to ask about the family
packages when making y our r eservation. I n the past, the hotel has offer ed deals for
families that include a backpack for your child, containing a T-shirt and other goodies, a
coupon for a fr ee in-room movie, and a 50% discount on all kids ' meals in the hotel.
Complimentary parking has been part of the package, as w ere complimentary milk and
cookies at turndown time.
The hotel's restaurant, Zest, is the only str eet-level restaurant on M ichigan Avenue,
and it offers a kids' menu. (Try to grab a table by the front windows to enjoy the never-
ending street scene.)
505 N. M ichigan Ave. (at Grand A ve.), Chicago, IL 60611.
&
800/327-0200
or 312/944-4100. F ax 312/
944-1320. http://chicago.intercontinental.com. 790 units . $235-$350 double; fr om $500 suit e. Kids 17
and under stay free in parent's room. Rollaways only in historic South tower $25/night; cribs free. AE, DC,
DISC, MC, V. Valet parking $43 with in/out privileges . Subway/El: Red Line t o Grand/State.
Amenities:
Restaurant (American); 2 lounges; indoor pool; fitness center w/sauna; concierge; business center; 24-hr.
room service; massage; babysitting; laundry service; same-day dry cleaning.
In room:
A/C, TV w/pay mov-
ies, high-speed and Wi-Fi Internet access, minibar, coffeemaker, hair dryer, iron, safe.
4
The James Hotel
One of the city's newest hotels (opened in 2006), the J ames
brought a much-needed small luxur y alternative to Chicago's hotel scene. Yes, you'll see
more business travelers here than families, but well-heeled families in the know stay here,
too (it's probably best for kids 8 and older). Cool and stylish, the hotel has a small lobby.
Rooms ar e a tribute to modern minimalism: dar k wood platform beds, leather cube
stools, chocolate-colored carpeting, and slate-tiled bathr ooms complete the decor . The
hotel's strength is its amenities. There's a good chance y our kids will har dly notice the
decor when they see the 42-inch plasma television in the room. There's also Wi-Fi and a
stereo with an iP od dock. A small spa and gym ar e located on the lo wer level. Parents
should get a sitter and tr y the hotel's steakhouse, David Burke's Primehouse, and check
out the nightlife at adjoining J Bar. One downside is the lack of views. Make sure to ask
for a street view, and you'll be able to admire the famed Medinah Temple down the street;
courtyard vie ws ar e dismal. F amilies might want to inquir e about the one-bedr oom
corner apartments that include a w et bar; they star t at $329 per night. Loft r ooms are
550 square feet in size and feature artwork by Chicago artists.
55 E. Ontario St. (at Wabash Ave.), Chicago, IL 60611.
&
877/526-3755
or 312/337-1000. w ww.james
hotels.com. 297 units (including 52 studios). $189-$529 double; $229-$569 studio; $289-$629 lof t;
$329-$669 apt; $1,400-$2,000 penthouse lof t. Kids 11 and under sta y free in parent's room. Rollaways
