The property currently is undergoing a $7 million renovation and already has completed extensive upgrades to its exterior, including a completely new exterior, new signage and lighting and expansive landscaping.  Interior work is well underway with new lobby furnishings and carpeting in place, as well as the installation of the Crowne Plaza Sleep Advantage program and other brand amenities.  When completed, the renovation will include refurbishing of the public and meeting space, and the spa and pool, as well as upgrading guest rooms and bathrooms.  The Crowne Plaza Chicago O�Hare is the sixth hotel to be re-flagged by MeriStar this year as part of an extensive upgrading and repositioning strategy. 

�We are on schedule with the timing of our renovation program, and expect to invest approximately $125 million in our hotels in 2004,� said Paul W. Whetsell, chairman and chief executive officer.  �Through our proprietary purchasing and design program, we have been able to move forward rapidly with reduced costs compared to traditional methods.�

Whetsell noted that the Crowne Plaza Chicago O�Hare has more than 55,000 square feet of meeting space and 503 guest rooms.  �By re-flagging to the Crowne Plaza brand, we expect to attract more higher-rated, group business seeking an upscale, first-class, full-service meeting experience.  We are seeing a very positive rebound at our hotels that have completed our renovation program, in terms of guest satisfaction and higher revenue per available room.  We expect to convert one additional hotel to a new brand before year-end.�

Arlington, Va.-based MeriStar Hospitality Corporation owns 76 principally upscale, full-service hotels in major markets and resort locations with 21,210 rooms in 22 states, and the District of Columbia.  The company owns hotels under such internationally known brands as Crowne Plaza, Hilton, Sheraton, Marriott, Ritz-Carlton, Westin, Doubletree and Radisson.  

This press release contains forward-looking statements about MeriStar Hospitality Corporation, including those statements regarding future operating results, the timing and composition of revenues, expected levels of capital expenditures, and expected proceeds from asset sales, among others.