5 Best Hotels in The Loop, Chicago

On a quiet block between bustling Michigan Avenue and the Lake Michigan shoreline, this 45-story pink-granite building has suites with stunning views of Millennium Park. The standard rooms, with their neutral colors and contemporary decor, are spacious at 425 square feet, and the bathrooms include both a tub and a shower. The on-site Leaf Spa has eight treatment rooms for those seeking a relaxing respite from sightseeing. This spot is ideal for visitors wanting to take in Millennium Park's popular summer concerts.

The Swissôtel's triangular Harry Weese design allows for panoramic vistas of the city, lake, or river—and the comfortable, contemporary rooms feel like condos. A 42nd-floor fitness center and pool are both a big draw, thanks to the bird's-eye views. Guests also enjoy the convenience of having a Palm steak house on the premises. Meeting rooms and an on-site UPS outlet ease the business traveler's burdens.

The world's first Virgin Hotel offers loads of tech-age amenities: a custom app called "Lucy" lets guests check in or out remotely, order room service, control the thermostat, and more, plus there is free Wi-Fi at unlimited bandwidth, and outlets are everywhere. Decorated in red and white, the rooms (called "chambers" here) feel airy and bright; each has a dressing area and a sleeping space separated by a sliding door. Pet-friendly digs have cute porcelain dogs stationed outside.

With a clublike lobby and spacious high-tech rooms done up in graphite and cream, this financial district hotel attracts both business travelers and tourists. The sleek, modern rooms are notable for incredibly comfortable beds with upholstered leather headboards, glass-top desks, and stylish bathrooms that feature more-than-the-usual toiletries. The location is also good, as it's within walking distance of theaters, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute.