What to expect: Located above The Shops at North Bridge, the Conrad Chicago at Michigan Avenue is within the Magnificent Mile’s retail district and a half-mile from Lake Michigan and the Loop business and theater districts.

Amenity highlights: The Conrad Chicago offers access to the business center and concierge services 24 hours a day. The 11th-floor fitness center provides a range of exercise equipment amid city views. Dining options a restaurant and two lounges. Other amenities include complimentary wireless Internet access in the lobby and both valet and self parking (surcharge).

Insider tip: The concierge at the Conrad Chicago can order horse-drawn carriages for hotel guests. Blanket-covered rides are available along North Michigan Avenue (surcharge). With regard to shopping, The Shops at North Bridge is accessible via a covered pedestrian bridge from the hotel’s fifth-floor lobby.

What to expect:This 32-story Chicago hotel designed by award-winning French architect Jean-Paul Viguier features a two-story atrium lobby with low chenille sofas, illuminated glass blocks embedded in the slate floor, and flickering candles in the evenings. Located within two blocks of the John Hancock Center, North Michigan Avenue shopping, and Rush Street nightlife, the hotel attracts business travelers and vacationers.

Amenity highlights: The 24-hour fitness center offers cardiovascular and strength-training equipment. The hotel has 10,000 square feet of meeting space with wireless Internet access (surcharge). A lobby boutique sells jewelry, handbags, chocolate truffles, and French bath products.

Insider tip: The Sofitel is located 1.5 miles from the Art Institute of Chicago, which offers complimentary museum admission on Tuesdays.