Starwood Preferred Guest - Where to stay for Chicago Marathon

I'm going to surprise my father (who's running in the marathon). Which hotel should I stay at from the following available starwoods: Westin Chicago River North, W Chicago City Center, W Chicago Lakeshore, or the Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers?

I'm looking for something that will near fun things to do, but also, I think my parents are staying at the Intercontinental and don't want to be too far from them, unless one hotel is highly recommended over the others.

Thx.

All but the W City Center are not far from the Intercontinental. As a runner, I love the Westin Michigan Avenue. If you're planning to take a run aside from the marathon itself, from the hotel it's a short two blocks up Michigan Avenue to the lakefront where you can go for the classic Chicago run. The others are also pretty close, but I really like the Westin Michigan Avenue's location.

I have stayed at the Westin River North four or five times, and it has always been great. Upgrades of some kind have not been too tough, even if you're just gold, and most of the rooms seem to be nice. The hotel is a large property that fills up when conventions or groups are in town, but it seems to maintain a certain tranquil vibe. Service is generally great from the front desk and other employees.