What to expect: The hotel’s opulent lobby features ornately framed 18th-century English paintings, ceramic vases, fresh orchids, mahogany furniture, crystal chandeliers, and marble tables, plus complimentary fruit, hot cider, and coffee. Conversation in the common areas is kept to a respectful, library-like murmur. The clientele ranges from upscale professionals to entertainers and world leaders.

Amenity highlights: The extensive fitness facilities include a 60-foot indoor pool, sundeck, spa tub, cardio equipment, free weights, steam room, and sauna. Classic fine dining is available in the Dining Room, and the hotel also has a café, lounge, and deli. High-speed Internet access is available in the business center. The attentive staff provides excellent service.

Insider tip: The hotel is located across the street from two of Atlanta's largest shopping centers, Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza.

What to expect: Guests are just as likely to be carrying briefcases as shopping bags. The excellent service provides travelers with the luxury and pampering they desire in elegant surroundings. It's a good location for meetings, conferences, and events.

Amenity highlights: Buckhead never sleeps and neither does this hotel, which offers 24-hour room service, business center, and fitness center.

Insider tip: The Atlanta History Center is just down the street from the Grand Hyatt and accessible via the complimentary shuttle. Besides the world-class traveling exhibitions, the Center has several signature exhibitions including “Metropolitan Frontiers,” which tracks Atlanta’s history, and “Down the Fairway with Bobby Jones,” which documents the beginnings of golf and the life of the Georgia golf legend.