Hotel loyalty programs; which are best? (USA) (cities, holiday, stay)

[SnugBuffalo]

This probably has been covered before, so apologies.

I am back to traveling extensively, to cities of all sizes across the U.S.

Which chains have the best loyalty programs - accrual policy, ease of cashing rewards, upgrade availability?

My company's policy is relatively liberal - they don't want us staying in the bottom-tier chains. Holiday Inns, Hiltons and the like.

Many thanks.

[Dd714]

Hilton I would hardly qualify as "bottom-tier". I like there program the best - the ability to double dip and use the points for both frequent flyer and hotel points at the same time. Also, they have some outragious deals for frequent flyer points during some months.