Chicago - hotel questions

[scottsins]

looking at, in order of price (descending)

trump (new place)
fairmont
rafaello
the james
hotel blake

i know that blake is a little less convenient to stuff, location wise.

one advantage of the james is that the restaurant there is one I WILL NOT miss out on when i am there, but we could eat there easily without staying there.

we will be there 4 nights. our activities will be art institute, boat tour, magnificent mile, cubs game, aquarium, and general walking around.

at night, we will hit Bijan bistro, hancock tower bar, a sushi place, the restaurant at the james, etc.

any suggestions?

 

[bullzak]

I have no idea of your price range but some thoughts:

Trump is in the lower part of the Tower which is still under construction so if you arent getting a great deal you might not be hip on it. The curb appeal at present will be non-existent.

Hard Rock hotel is in the old Carbon and Carbide Building and they did a huge award winning renovation. Looks nice and its on the Mag Mile.

I have stayed in the Sofitel Chicago and that is kind of Euro chic but I liked it. Great location.

Check out the Whitehall hotel in the Gold Coast. Kind of a boutique. I dont know a lot about it but small, great location. My friends like it.

There is a Conrad on top of the Nordstroms on Michigan Ave. I hear great things about it and the location is unbeatable.

Just some ideas a little off the standard franchise fare.

 

[scottsins]

P/C,

have you eaten at david burke's restaurant there?