Cambria Hotel Chicago Magnificent Mile

Located in one of Chicago's ritziest neighborhoods, the MileNorth succeeds at being both upscale and comfortable, relaxed for families, couples, and business travelers alike. The modern furnishings in the lobby are interspersed with whimsical touches like wooden rocking chairs, an old typewriter, overstuffed leather chairs, and modern art. The result feels like the shabby chic living room of an urban-dwelling friend (who also happens to serve any kind of Starbucks coffee you're craving -- or, later, something alcoholic -- from the well-stocked Barista Bar).

Less than a block from the shops and sights of the Magnificent Mile, this hotel is perfectly situated for hitting all of Chicago's highlights on foot, close to Lake Michigan yet still in the heart of the best shopping. The Museum of Contemporary Art is around the corner to the east and the Chicago Water Tower and some of Chicago's most exclusive stores are just a block west on Michigan Avenue. The area immediately surrounding the property is leafy and safe, mostly condos and apartments. The hotel is also within walking distance of the Hancock Tower and other area attractions are easily reached by the nearby public transportation -- the closest L stop is a few blocks away -- or a quick cab ride.

The most distinctive feature of the 215 larger-than-average rooms is that they are bi-level; the bed and sitting areas are separated from the desk and bathroom by a few carpeted steps, which make the room feel more like an apartment than a standard hotel room. The furnishings are modern and stylish, with a neutral color palette, save for the cityscape photos on the walls and brightly colored bathrooms. Bathrooms have either showers or combination shower-tubs, as well as Destination Earth toiletries, part of their environmentally conscious efforts, which also extend to linens and beyond -- the hotel embraces a "Green on the Mile" policy. The wall-mounted flat-screen TVs have premium cable channels and pay-per-view options. Rooms include all the standard high-tech amenities -- i.e. iPod docks and Wi-Fi -- as well as mini-fridges and coffeemakers. Higher floors have the best views, though some rooms look straight into office buildings and top-floor rooms share a wall with the rooftop bar and can be noisy. Past guests have complained of noise from adjoining rooms. A maximum of two dogs are allowed for a fee.

The Barista Bar in the lobby serves up Starbucks coffee, as well as light fare, in a comfortable setting. On the rooftop, there's a trendy indoor/outdoor 52Eighty Bar, which has skyline views, cocktails, and gourmet appetizers. The 24-hour fitness center has a wide assortment of free weights, cardio machines and circuit-type equipment. American Girl doll aficionados and their parents will appreciate the special "American Girl Package," where dolls are treated to their own mini-beds, robes, and slippers. There is also 3,000 square feet of meeting/event space, available for business or wedding events, but there isn't much of a business center -- only two computers in the lobby. It's also worth noting that the hotel valet is quite expensive and there is no free parking option; if you arrive with a car, consider looking for other budget lots in the area.