Chicago
Illinois


The Experience

In the last few years, Chicago has cast aside its reputation for being the dowdy Midwestern cousin to its more glamorous counterparts like Los Angeles and New York. And the boldest statement that the Windy City has arrived is arguably the Peninsula Chicago, an offshoot of the Hong Kong flagship and -- like its colonial cousin -- located in the heart of the city in a historical building right on the Magnificent Mile. The minute you enter the lobby, there's the hushed but unpretentious atmosphere that marks the best international hotels. All in all, it's in a new league of the city's properties.

The Rooms

Many hotels boast a "state-of-the-art" electronic system, but you have to be a technical genius to figure out how to work it. At the Peninsula Chicago, even Luddites can operate lights and temperature from bed. Huge rooms start at 530 square feet, with an extremely comfy bed as the centerpiece. Bathrooms have the thoughtful touch of a flat-screen TV that's -- yes! -- steam-free. While the rooms at Four Seasons are grander, this property wins for its more understated elegance.

The Service

In a city where friendliness is one of the defining factors, staff here take that reputation and add a dose of the very professional service that's come to define Asian properties. Check-in is quick and efficient while still friendly, and staff –- from room service to bellboys -- seem to know when you want to chat and when to leave you alone.

The Highlights

If you're enamored with dramatic views, then head straight for the 14,000-square-feet spa and fitness center on the top two floors. Even if you're not swimming, bring your swimsuit: Here's where you'll find a large lap pool with some of the best views of the city, courtesy of enormous floor-to-ceiling wraparound windows. And on sunny days you can even camp out on the outdoor deck. Less exciting are the four restaurants, which all serve pretty standard hotel fare, but afternoon tea, transported from Hong Kong and served in the grand lobby, is a wonderful way to spend an hour.

-- Ondine Cohane

Find Hotel Deals on Yahoo Travel»