The Grace Hotel

This timelessly chic 382-room hotel is housed in an 11-storey corner block – a loose copy of the Tribune Tower in Chicago – that began life in 1930 as the headquarters of department store giant Grace Brothers. During World War II General MacArthur directed South Pacific operations from here. A total refurbishment was completed in 2005, but many of the original features, such as the lifts, stairwells, marble floors and ornate ironwork, have been retained and restored to great effect. Rooms, however, are modern, large and comfortable, and all have bathtubs. The indoor heated lap pool is small, but there’s also a sauna and a steam room, plus a sun-filled fitness centre and rooftop terrace. While the rack rate here seems high, there are usually much more reasonable internet offers to be had. Bar77Grace serves cocktails and innovative bar food. Bars (2). Concierge. Disabled-adapted rooms. Gym. Internet (high-speed). No smoking. Parking ($30). Pool (indoor). Restaurant. Room service. Spa. TV (cable/pay movies). CityRail Martin Place or Wynyard.