Raffaello Hotel Chicago (formerly the Raphael)

The Raffaello Hotel (formerly The Raphael) underwent a $20 million renovation in 2006 and boasts that they are "a comfortable combination of being high luxury and environmentally friendly."

ranging from $149 to $749

175 guest rooms

312-943-5000

201 E. Delaware Place, Chicago

Raffaello Hotel Chicago Website

The Raffaello Hotel was previously known as "The Raphael", but in 2006 they underwent not only a name change, but its South Beach owners made a $20 million investment in interior furnishings and completely updated the decor while maintaining the historic architecture of the building and lobby.

The hotel is in a great location, walking distance to the lakefront, Michigan Avenue shopping, Rush Street bars and restaurants, and the John Hancock Center.

Those millions of dollars went to good use when the Raffaello upgraded the rooms -- they now feature luxury items such as 500-thread-count sheets, flat-screen televisions, "rain showerheads" and Aveda products in the bathrooms. Other nice touches are in-room microwaves, radios with MP3 connectors, and wireless and wired internet connections. Suites are available with the same appointments and the addition of a separate living space with queen-size pull out couch.

The Raffaello has a full business center with video conferencing, computer workstations, and copiers/printers that are available all day and night.