Thank you for the information.....My wife and I are looking for a hotel in the River North / Mag Mile area.

Do you think we will be ok as far as availability and price if we are checking out on the 15th? I know some times hotels jack their rates if an event or large conference is scheduled.

We will be vacationing December 10-15 to shop, dine and sight see the city decorated for Christmas. We are looking for a luxury hotel with nice rooms and good service. The Peninsula, Ritz, Four Seasons and Park Hyatt all look to be a little rich for me. We don't want GENERIC but are looking for a nice luxury feeling hotel with bigger rooms that don't have the 5 Star price of Four Seasons/Pennensula.

Any recommendations?

have you researched sofitel? that might align to what you are looking for

I think you'll be OK. Try www.hotels.com or similar site and see what comes up for your dates. Mag Mile or River North areas are best.

If you're not too picky, Hotwire is showing a ton of availability for your dates. 4 1/2* for $161/night. 4* - $108/night.

I'm not exactly sure how Hotwire works, but if I am going to stay for 5 nights and spend close to $1000.00 it scares me to not know what hotel I will be placed in.

There was a recommendation for Sofitel. What is that place really like?

check out hte sofitel reviews on this site. it is definitely not a "generic" hotel. there are also some good traveler photos of the hotel, the views, and the rooms as well.

im sure a chcago expert could also recommend other hotels as well. it really depends on your budget and when u are going.

we stayed at the sofitel this past weekend and would definitely return again

"I'm not exactly sure how Hotwire works, but if I am going to stay for 5 nights and spend close to $1000.00 it scares me to not know what hotel I will be placed in."

www.betterbidding.com for Hotwire and Priceline information and bidding tips.