Eurostars Magnificent Mile

New York may be America’s most recognizable cityscape, but for fans of skyscrapers and the utopian optimism of modernist architecture there’s no place quite like Chicago. And for an introduction to Chicago-style vertical living, with a healthy dose of both modern design and contemporary luxury, it would be hard to do much better than Eurostars Magnificent Mile.

With over two hundred rooms it’s not small, but the look and the atmosphere are pure boutique, from the exclusivity of the nightspots to the forward-looking design in the guest rooms. Floor-to-ceiling windows make the bedrooms feel enormous, and the minimalist décor, including hand-hewn hardwood floors and bare concrete columns and ceilings, wisely doesn’t distract from the views. Best yet, a new building means no compromises when it comes to modern conveniences — not just high technology like LCD televisions and iPod docking stereos, but such concrete luxuries as fully enclosed shower rooms with overhead rain spouts.

The ground floor is given over to a full-service spa and fitness center, surely a big draw, and there's also a restaurant, called Portsmith. Leviathan, the lobby lounge, pours a mean cocktail, but the more impressive space is Apogee, the open-air rooftop lounge. When the weather permits, Chicagoans go mad for a chance to socialize outdoors, so you can expect a very full house.

How to get there:
Eurostars Magnificent Mile is located two blocks from the Chicago Ave. station on the red "L" line. Taxi prices range from $26-$45 from Midway Airport and $32-$48 from O’Hare.