Strange that the Claridge Hotels would cultivate a "get away from it all" feel one block from Division Street's bacchanalian parties, but the low-key Hotel Indigo fits the bill, nestled on a quieter residential street in a mid-rise building that resembles an upscale co-op.

A night at the Indigo feels like a vacation in itself. Adirondack chairs in the lobby, lush landscape paintings and bright Pottery Barn-hued walls rewire your brain, almost daring you to feel stressed. Even on the bleakest, windiest winter day, huge sawgrass murals in the hallways and seasonal design schemes will keep you in high spirits. This isn't really a link in a national chain, is it?

The rooms are small but attractive, resembling the "after" scene on one of those home makeover shows. Everything from the fixtures to the moldings to the appliances looks right out of the box. Grab a light bite at The Golden Bean cafe, or take one of 24 seats at Phi, a tapas and wine bar lounge.

You're only a few blocks from the lake and surrounded by Gold Coast energy and wallet-draining retail establishments, but a stay here, fittingly, won't stress the wallet. Rates start at $169 per night, and three special packages—Indulge, Invigorate and Interlude—include dessert, breakfast or sparkling wine for $20-$50 extra.

Centerstage Reviewer: Justin Sondak