No. 01
521 NORTH RUSH STREET CHICAGO IL 60611Chicago88 verified reviews
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Skyscrapers and Storybooks: Sleeping in Chicago's Architectural Icons
Chicago is not just the birthplace of the skyscraper; it is a living museum of architectural innovation. For the discerning traveler, the true magic lies not just in viewing these structures, but in sleeping inside them. This curated collection invites you to stay within the walls of history in neighborhoods like The Loop and the Magnificent Mile. From the Venetian Gothic splendor of the Chicago Athletic Association to the Art Deco brilliance of the Carbide & Carbon Building (now the Pendry), these properties have been meticulously restored. Experience the grandeur of the roaring twenties at LondonHouse or the neoclassical elegance of The Blackstone, where modern luxury meets the storied past of the Windy City.
Why Choose Chicago for Skyscrapers and Storybooks: Sleeping in Chicago's Architectural Icons?
Choosing to stay in one of Chicago's architectural icons is more than just booking a room; it is an immersion into the narrative of American ingenuity. Chicago's skyline tells the story of the Great Fire and the subsequent boom that gave rise to the world's first skyscrapers. Hotels like the JW Marriott Chicago, housed in a Daniel Burnham-designed masterpiece, or the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, with its historic tower originally built as a luxury athletic club, allow guests to physically touch history. These properties offer a unique juxtaposition where guests can enjoy high-speed Wi-Fi and spa treatments beneath gold-leaf ceilings and within marble-clad lobbies that have hosted presidents and royalty.
Top Areas to Stay
To experience the best of Chicago's architectural heritage, focus your stay in these two primary districts:
- The Loop: The historic commercial center of Chicago. Here you will find the Kimpton Gray Hotel in the old New York Life Insurance Building and the Virgin Hotels Chicago, a stylish reimagining of the Old Dearborn Bank building. It is the heart of the architectural river boat tours and close to Millennium Park.
- Magnificent Mile (North Michigan Avenue): Famous for luxury shopping and towering structures. This area hosts the InterContinental and is just steps away from the riverfront elegance of LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton, offering breathtaking views of the river and the Wrigley Building.
What to Expect
When booking a stay at these icon hotels, expect a blend of museum-quality aesthetics and top-tier hospitality. The lobbies are often destinations in themselves, featuring restored frescoes, intricate mosaics, and grand staircases. However, the rooms are thoroughly modernized. Expect plush bedding, smart technology, and often, unique floor plans dictated by the historic nature of the building. Dining is also a highlight; many of these hotels, such as the Pendry Chicago and Chicago Athletic Association, feature rooftop bars and restaurants that offer panoramic views of the very skyline they helped define.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.Which hotel in this collection has the best rooftop view?
LondonHouse Chicago and the Chicago Athletic Association (Cindy's Rooftop) are renowned for their spectacular views of Millennium Park and the Chicago River.
Q.Are these historic hotels modernized inside?
Yes, while properties like The Blackstone and JW Marriott preserve their historic facades and lobbies, the guest rooms feature modern luxury amenities and technology.
Q.Which historic hotel is best for being near Millennium Park?
The Chicago Athletic Association is located directly across from Millennium Park, offering immediate access to the Bean and local attractions.
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