A modern palace on the glitziest street in the Windy City.

Low key or budget-friendly.

Guests enter the gleaming ground floor parlor of the tony North Michigan Avenue building and take the private elevator skyward to the lively seventh floor lobby. It’s there that they are met with a handsomely polished welcome - detailed with morning coffee or afternoon lemonade. The 345 rooms and suites, which begin on the 30th floor and climb to the 46th, are the highest in the city. The incredible views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan are complemented by the hotel’s rather impressive art collection - one that ranges from Warhol to Matisse. Contemporary, but inspired by the clean, frill-less lines of 1940s French design, the rooms are all studies in subtle elegance. They feel like lush, mini residences set in the clouds.

Back downstairs, contemporary farm-to-table creations are served at Allium - book early as it’s one of the hot spots in town. The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago offers a bevy of treatments, topped off by a sauna and the 50-foot indoor Roman swimming pool many will remember from Home Alone 2.

The service is, of course, renowned here: name your fancy and it’ll come true - right down to the Bedtime Story Butler, the Hot Chocolate Doc or the Martini Man.

You want something superlative. Over the top butlers that make sundaes for the kids right in your room, views of the lake from the highest peak in the city, and one of the most convenient addresses in town.

Back from day’s wander through Old Town (following the itinerary of must-see’s from the concierge) you return to your room and find yourself on the leather window bench, looking out at Lake Michigan. Dinner reservations downstairs at Allium’s chef’s table are in an hour, so there’s no need to tear your gaze away.

Allium Restaurant and Bar - Modern American cuisine in a chic, vibrant setting