W Chicago – Lakeshore

The scene at W Chicago - Lakeshore draws couples and business travelers more often than families, though young ones will likely appreciate the indoor pool. The airy, gray-black-and-white-lobby includes matching reception desks made of stacked copper cylinders. Walls are covered in matching white canisters. Circular black and white modular sofas are semi-hidden behind curtains of silver beads. The adjacent Living Room Lobby has a billiards table and super sleek bar counter with silver stools. Upstairs, guests gather on wicker furniture topped with colorful cushions to admire views of Lake Michigan and the Navy Pier.

Sandwiched between Lake Michigan and the rest of the Streeterville neighborhood, the W is within a short walk of several drinking and dining options, as well as various tourist attractions in Chicago. Neighboring Navy Pier offers plenty of festivals and fairs during the summertime, and the shops of the nearby Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue are always a popular pick.

Streeterville is one of Chicago's most affluent neighborhoods, with renowned restaurants and luxurious condos lining its streets. It's a great base for exploring the rest of the city: The neighborhood sits across the river from the Loop and Millennium Park, and most of Chicago's top tourist attractions are within walking distance. Expect a 25-minute drive to Chicago O' Hare International Airport and to pay for parking at the hotel.

Updated in 2014, rooms here are sleek and modern, and range from standard "Wonderful" rooms to the "WOW" suite. They're neither particularly large nor small, and feature and black-white-and-gray color palette with interesting touches such as funky light fixtures, pop art-esque prints (like framed photographs of lips on the walls), and brightly colored chairs. All rooms have work desks, flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and plenty of closet space. Bathrooms are relatively small, and are outfitted with slate tiling, shower/tub combos, and Bliss toiletries. Except for Starwood members, in-room Wi-Fi requires an additional fee and coffeemakers must be requested (but are free). Most rooms have amazing views of Lake Michigan or downtown Chicago, but some of them look into neighboring building's windows.

The W brand is known for its many extras -- not only including the Wherever, Whenever program (which basically promises anything you may request -- for a fee), but also its partnership with Bliss (this W property has a Bliss spa on-site). The indoor pool is flanked by chic sun loungers and the spacious fitness center includes Technogym equipment and strength-training machines. Current restaurant serves Italian and American dishes, while the uber-cool Living Room has billiards and a sleek bar. 24-hour room service is a nice touch. There's a rooftop terrace with views of Lake Michigan and a small bar area. Breakfast isn't included with the rate.

Business travelers will appreciate the expansive and stylish conference rooms. There's a business center with Mac computers and a copy machine. Wi-Fi is free on the first floor and in the rooms for Starwood members; non-members, however, have to pay a pricey daily fee.