Cheaper Hotel in Chicago/Hotel Blake?

Travel Info
I am going to Chicago in the middle of July to look at Columbia College of Chicago, it is located in Printer's Row. I want to stay in the Printer's Row, Grant Park, Navy Pier or The Loop Area. I have been on all of the "Priceline" types of websites. I am looking for personal experiences/preferences on good/clean/newer hotels for $250 more or less per night. Also, has anyone ever stayed in Hotel Blake? How is that? It seems good, but I have read mixed reviews. Thank you and have a Merry Summer!

Travel Tips

Hotel Blake was supposed to reopen this year after renovation as the Nicky O Hotel. Nicky O is named after Nicky Olivia Hilton, the younger sister of Paris. The project fell apart in February, and the developer is suing Nicky Hilton for breach of contract. It should be a nice small hotel.

Did you read this?
http://www.colum.edu/about_columbia/acco...
It says that you can get a discount at the Hilton, which is next to the school.

Essex Inn is also nearby (also next to the school).
http://www.essexinn.com/

Hard Rock Hotel is another good choice. It's a mile away from campus, on the same street, Michigan Avenue.
Others

stay at the Hilton on Michigan ave. It's basically right in the middle of the Columbia campus.
Stayed there before.
I suggest you use a Travel Agent. Travel agents have access to booking engines a price locator's that will not be on the Internet. Contrary to most belief a good Travel Agent for a hotel booking in most instances will not charge a fee.
You may find a travel agent that's been on a familiarization trip to Chicago and would be very familiar with most Chicago area hotels. Getting around Chicago is very easy and there are many hotels close to the areas you are interested in staying.
Its a nice area of Downtown, you will like it. Hotel has a lot of nice ammenities and people seem to like. Business travelers like it better than the hotels they have to stay in.
I live here.
Have fun in Chicago. Great city.

You can find the best selection here for sure. You can find the best deal as this site searches all the best sites to get you the cheapest rate. I'm positive you will find a great hotel for a great price to look at your college. Sorry I don't any personally, but try this out:

http://www.hotelscombined.com?a_aid=781b...