Right in the heart of Oprah country, the intimate Essex Inn provides guests with excellent views of the city, Grant Park and Lake Michigan, along with convenient access to Chicago's Magnificent Mile, world famous museums and theaters, sporting venues, the Loop and McCormick Place. Complimentary shuttles stop along the Mag Mile. About five blocks from the hotel is the 20 mile path that runs along Lake Michigan, where guests can run, walk, bike or skate. They can rent bicycles, in line skates and pedal powered buggies at beachfront locations.

One of the focal points is the garden pool and Fitness Center on the fourth floor rooftop, where guests can get breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.

For the hungry, Chicago drips with boffo restaurants, but at the hotel's Savoy Bar and Grill, guests can watch the nifty activity in Grant Park as they nosh breakfast, lunch or dinner while listening to tunes on the old fashioned jukebox. For dinner, they can enjoy their fill of Greek, Mexican and Italian specialties, as well as ribs, roast sirloin and fried shrimp. The bar features an original mural representing the city's jazz history.

Back in their rooms, guests will love the art deco style accentuated by framed art and museum posters collected by the hotel owner. Rooms come complete with boldly patterned bedspreads, floor to ceiling windows and dial up Internet access.

The Essex House is popular with leisure travelers and families because of the location within one mile of theaters, museums and Lake Michigan. During the summer months, the Essex House buzzes with activity when scenic Grant Park and Millennium Park host events nearly every weekend.