Australia’s Gold Coast has nothing on Chicago’s — who needs killer surfing and rad weather when you have the Lincoln Park Zoo? Also in the neighborhood: class acts like The Talbott Hotel, built over 80 years ago, sitting a block off Michigan Avenue.

These days, the 149-roomer is Green Seal certified and rocks the LCD screens and free WiFi after a multi-comma-dollar upgrade. Its rates right now, however, are a throwback to last century: from $129/night, including breakfast and access to the Equinox gym, right around the corner, not that you, uh, need it. Good through the end of March, at least, but don’t be surprised to see this promo extended. Call (800) 825-2688 to book.