What to expect: On weekdays, the atrium lobby overlooking the harbor bustles, as guests ride glass elevators or congregate in clusters of chairs on the first and second floor. Because of the Hyatt's proximity to the convention center, more than half the guests are with groups. Other guests include business and leisure travelers.

Amenity highlights: Guests can lounge by a sparkling outdoor pool (seasonal), enjoy the sundeck, or take advantage of the on-site jogging track, basketball court, or outdoor tennis courts.

Insider tip: One mile south of the Hyatt is Federal Hill, a funky neighborhood of 19th-century brick townhouses. One popular attraction is Cross Street Market, at the corner of Cross and Light streets, where produce and food stalls are open daily.

What to expect: Harbor Court Hotel guests include well-heeled business and leisure travelers, celebrities, and small groups. The two-story lobby of this 1986 hotel, with marble floors, a ceiling mural, and sweeping curved wooden staircase, is a favorite meeting place.

Amenity highlights: Located on the seventh floor, a health club offers everything from aquatic aerobics in the indoor pool to racquetball to aromatherapy body polishes. Guests can unwind with a drink and cigar in the Explorer’s Lounge; tucked away in the room’s southeast corner is an alcove with sweeping views of the harbor.

Insider tip: Less than one mile south of the Harbor Court Hotel is Federal Hill, an old neighborhood that’s been rediscovered. A popular attraction is Cross Street Market, a 19th-century brick building at the corner of Cross and Light streets where produce and food stalls are open daily.

What to expect: Most guests at this high-rise hotel are members of large groups or are attending events at the convention center, one mile away. Filmmakers also stay here; cast and crew members are occasionally spotted walking through the gleaming black-and-white marble lobby, with its frescoed ceilings, graceful columns, and plush sofas. A water-taxi stop is right outside, for easy access to numerous attractions.

Amenity highlights: An indoor lap pool has a seasonal outdoor deck with picture-perfect harbor views. Adjacent to the pool, a 24-hour health club includes women’s and men’s saunas.

The business center, open 24 hours and staffed during the day, includes computers with high-speed Internet access (surcharge). Wireless Internet access (surcharge) is available in the lobby. Dining options include an American grill, a harbor-view lounge, and a bakery and deli featuring Starbucks coffee.