Planning in a downtown locale offers a bevy of options.  Here are just a few of our favorite venues for meeting downtown:

The James Chicago-Magnificent Mile (Chicago)- In all of its incarnations The James brand is chic and stylish. A boutique brand that offers all the elements of a classic business oriented property, The James Chicago provides an extra dose of downtown cool. Steps from many Chicago attractions, such as Millennium Park, and offering more than 6,700 sq. ft. of meeting space, The James is a great option for your next event.

The Waldorf-Astoria (New York City) Tap into a piece of New York City history with this old school favorite—the Waldorf Astoria has seamlessly preserved its vintage charm and illustrious aesthetic while implementing a level of service and luxury that is decidedly modern. With 60,000 sq. ft. of flexible function space, and a location in the heart of midtown, the Waldorf is the place to meet.

Clift San Francisco (San Francisco)-A favorite of Ian Schrager fans everywhere, San Francisco’s Clift Hotel is the perfect marriage between the bohemian rhapsody of the Gramercy Park Hotel and the sleek lines of Public while still maintaining Schrager’s almost surrealist edge.  With a wide variety of spaces to choose from, and a 24-hour business center on-site, the Clift goes beyond being just a hip hotel.

Hotel del Coronado (San Diego, Calif.)- Recently the location of Smart Meeting San Diego Smart Mart, The Del really lives up to the hype.  With a rich history involving all kinds, from politicians to movie stars, this historic property is situated beach-side, just moments from the bustling riverfront promenade. Featuring 65,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, the Del is a great place to mix business and pleasure.

Hotel ZaZa, (Dallas)-A property with as much exuberant as its name, Hotel Zaza is a modern and luxurious hotel with a distinctive theatrical flair. Located right in the heart of downtown Dallas, Hotel ZaZa can accommodate groups from ten to 300.