No. 22 Waldorf Astoria (formerly the Elysian), Chicago

Score: 94.67

Architect Lucien Lagrange created a 60-story skyscraper reminiscent of 1920’s Parisian grand hotels, complete with a brick motor court that makes arrivals seamless and private. The lobby, with dark swirls running through the white marble floor is—there’s no other way to put it—drop-dead gorgeous. The 188 swank rooms start at a spacious 614 square feet and were created by Simeone Deary Design Group with platinum and champagne color schemes, tufted headboards, fireplaces, and Rivolta Carmignani Italian bed linens. From the pin-tucked curtains to the jewelry design-influenced light fixtures, it’s all tres Chanel and Dior. (You’ll find coffee table books on these designers in some rooms.) The Elysian Spa & Health Club is above the hotel’s open-air courtyard and offers gyrotonic pilates as well as Lava Shell massages. For dining, there are two options: the European bistro Balsan and the Michelin two-star RIA.

See the full results of the 2012 World’s Best Awards.