I don't want to burst your bubble, but as Chris hinted, I do think you will have to shop hard to find something really nice for $200 in Chicago. Hotel beds usually go for a pretty penny in the Windy City! I tend to find better pricing for "upscale" properties at http://www.quikbook.com than I do when researching the usual online travel agencies, eg, Orbitz, Expedia, Travelocity, etc. I have successfully used QuikBook several times for both online and phone bookings, without a hitch and with great service. Of course, you should always call your preferred hotel with the best online price you've found to see if they will match or beat it so you can make a direct booking.

The Talbott is another property you might want to consider.

Don't forget to check current traveler's hotel reviews at http://www.tripadvisor.com

If you have any interest in GTG'ing with Chi-Town residents, contact me by email, and let's give it a try on TheTravelzine GTG Calendar located at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TheTravelzine/files/

Chicago in October should be wonderful! Have a great visit.

Diana Ball near Houston, TX