Chicago’s Elysian and Peninsula are top U.S. hotels, Conde Nast Traveler readers say

What’s it like to stay in the best hotel in the United States? While that title is strictly subjective, Conde Nast Traveler readers singled out Chicago’s Elysian Hotel for that top 2011 honor for big-city hotels. And survey results released Tuesday also picked Peninsula Chicago as third best. Rooms at these places are pricey, but even luxury digs sometimes have special offers for those who want something extra with a splurge.

Elysian Hotel (11 E. Walton; 800-500-8511): Judging by the image of a bubblegum-snapping “guest” slinking her way through the lobby on the website, this high-rise hotel might not take itself too seriously. The City Break package good through the end of the year includes a $25 hotel credit (no idea what $25 buys at this top dog) and breakfast for two. I checked and found availability Oct. 28 starting at $525 a night plus tax.

The Peninsula Chicago (108 E. Superior St.; 312-573-6620): Under a category called “Enticements” on its website, the hotel features a Value the Experience package that includes free valet parking and breakfast for two. Rooms start at $560 plus tax for this package. I checked the same date (Oct. 28) and found availability starting at $640 a night plus tax; check other dates to find the lower rate.

The city: In the same survey, Chicago ranked fourth (after Charlotte, S.C., San Francisco and Santa Fe) as top U.S. city to visit. Check out all the results at Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2011.