With such a prestigious address in the heart of the famed Magnificent Mile, the kid-friendly Omni Chicago Hotel puts guests right in the thick of things: within a mile of world-class shopping, museums, galleries, restaurants and nightlife synonymous with the Windy City. They will love being so close to pristine Lake Michigan, where the 30-mile lakefront path is perfect for walking, jogging, biking and skating.

The Omni exudes the luxury and sophistication expected from a place bestowed by persnickety critics with four diamonds. Upon entering the lobby, guests first notice high ceilings, mahogany accents, leather furniture and domed art-deco chandeliers. The hotel's restaurant, Cielo, offers a prime people-watching spot above lively Michigan Avenue. Look! Isn't that Oprah? Cielo's patrons literally have front-row seats to the Magnificent Mile holiday parade and other annual events. The Italian bistro also dishes up pastas, seafood, steaks and extensive brunch buffets. While guests are savoring the delicacies, they can marvel at the trompe l'oeil ceiling mural of blue sky and puffy clouds that exaggerates height.

Meanwhile, guests relax in the indoor pool, fitness center or even work out in their rooms with Get Fit Kits, which include floor mats, elastic bands and dumbbells. During the summer, a rooftop sundeck makes an inviting vantage point for viewing the city. The Omni also offers a business center and complimentary house car to the business district.

Soft jazz greats guests as they return to their rooms, which come complete with book-lined shelves, wireless Internet access, bathrobes, wet bars, mahogany desks, and paisley bedspreads accented by velvet pillows.

Business travelers and VIPs appreciate the hotel's ambience of respected privacy. Families, meanwhile, love the Omni's Kids Program, which includes room childproofing, first-aid kits, backpacks filled with goodies, activity books, crayons and snacks.