InterContinental Hotel

Like most of the hotels operating under the Intercontinental banner, this 790-room property on Chicago's Magnificent Mile (Michigan Avenue) is elegant, upscale and expensive. But it's particularly notable for the historic gems within its walls, from a grand hall filled with elaborate pachyderm engravings to an Olympic-size Art-Deco pool brightened by bright blue tile and grand stained glass windows. And how many hotels have a zeppelin landing dock on the roof? Guest rooms start at about $300, which makes it all the more unacceptable that our room had an uncomfortable, lumpy mattress. Otherwise, rooms are well-appointed, with oversize desks, flat-screen TVs, minibars and high-speed Internet. Windows are large and actually work; many have lovely views of the city and Lake Michigan. Bathrooms, especially in the suites, are spacious and opulent in marble, with separate shower and tub. Hotel amenities include a spacious fitness center, the renovated 1920s pool, the Zest restaurant and the excellent Eno wine bar, offering flights of wine, chocolate and cheese. Guests or other visitors interested in the hotel's history can take a free podcast walking tour.