Chambers Hotel New York

Sure, the Chambers is boutique hotel-chic, but its very "Brady Bunch" lobby staircase—complete with an under-stair seating area—may have arrivals humming a certain infectious theme song. Thankfully, the cool Brazilian music pumping from the speakers and stylish mezzanine-level bar will snap guests out of any momentary Nick-at-Nite flashbacks. Glass-walled elevators stop at 15 uniquely decorated floors, each featuring hotel-commissioned artwork from the likes of John Waters and Do-Ho Suh. (Be sure to catch the pictures of shoe-covered feet, hanging inches from the ground, on the top floor.)

The spacious and stylish guest rooms resemble artists' lofts, albeit modern, high-tech ones; enormous windows and shelves packed with glossy art and film books co-mingle with flat-screen TVs, yoga cards and one-touch dialing to Henri Bendel and Exhale Spa. The color palette is classic and neutral, with touches of vibrant color and texture scattered throughout; the beautiful tiled bathrooms feature soaking tubs or rainwater-head showers. Guests are guaranteed that at least five of the hotel's 500 original works will adorn their suites. The hotel is absolutely fabulous and is likely to be an experience you have never had before and will never forget.