Located "where the river meets the lake," Swissotel Chicago offers scenic views of the city from a structure made entirely of glass. Navy Pier, Grant Park and Lake Michigan are only a gaze (and a short cab ride) away.

Named one of the six best hotels in Illinois by Travel and Leisure, Swissotel's 632 oversized, contemporary guest rooms average about $200 a night. Each room offers up high-speed internet access, a desk with a two-line telephone system and a mini bar. The suites average 1,200 square feet and include such gems as the Duplex Suite, a two-story loft with its own dining room (about $409 a night). The Executive Suite (about $709 a night) offers a panoramic view of the city skyline. At the top of the building (and of every high roller's list), the Presidential Suite is souped up with a marble foyer, a fireplace, a grand piano, a Jacuzzi and dining table for ten.

In-house restaurants include the Lobby Lounge, where guests can rev up on cappuccinos and pastries in the morning or kick back with cocktails come evening. The Manhattan-based Palm Restaurant dishes out tender aged prime beef, Italian eats and generous portions of lobster. For those working for the weekend, 32 function rooms and an onsite business center take care of briefcase-toting travelers; the heart-conscious crowd gets going with cardio and strength equipment in Penthouse Health Club.

Centerstage Reviewer: Jennifer Berg