What to expect: Corporate types appreciate this hotel's convenient location (10 miles from businesses along the O'Hare International Corridor) and soothing duck pond. Guests can borrow books from the library, or relax on a cushy sofa by the fireplace and large-screen TV. As colleagues settle in with after-work drinks, families and wedding parties also enjoy the lounge as a living room away from home.

Amenity highlights: The hotel's courtyard garden (and namesake) is a relaxing, warm-weather retreat, with a brick path, several benches, and walkway lights for evening strolls. Adjacent to the garden is a sundeck with chaise lounges and easy access to the indoor pool. Complimentary towels, bathrooms, and a snack machine are in the pool area. A complimentary shuttle is available to transport guests within a 5-mile radius of the hotel.

Insider tip: Just 6 miles north of the hotel, the Schaumburg area offers hundreds of stores and dozens of restaurants. Woodfield Mall includes Todai, an outstanding, inexpensive Japanese buffet open for lunch and dinner.