The world is full of famous historic hotels and the Prairie State has a few of its own. Among its most famous is the Palmer House located in the heart of downtown Chicago. With its long history, luxurious accommodations, numerous amenities, and world-class service, you will want to book a stay at the Palmer House, the most famous historic hotel in Illinois.
It all began in 1870 when the original Palmer House was built by Chicago businessman, Potter Palmer. He had it built as a gift for his socialite wife, Bertha Honoré Palmer. However, just 13 days after its grand opening in 1871, the hotel was destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire.
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Potter Palmer decided to rebuild the hotel, and by 1873, it reopened. Potter’s wife Bertha was responsible for the art and decor around the hotel.
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Over the years, the Palmer House has welcomed countless celebrities, musicians, authors, and politicians. In 1933, the hotel’s Empire Dining Room was even converted into a supper club to host its rich and famous guests.
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In 1945, Hilton Hotels aquired the Palmer House for a mere $20 million, and it became known as “Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel.” As one of the longest-operating hotels in the country, this hotel is a member of the Historic Hotels of America.
Jesus f/TripAdvisor In recent years, the Palmer House has undergone over $170 million in renovations.
The Palmer House has 1,641 well-appointed rooms, 21 floors, restaurants, numerous amenities, and is synonymous with luxury and history. When you spend the night, just know you are sleeping in one of the most iconic and historic hotels not only in Illinois, but in the country.
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Among the amenities for guests to enjoy are an 8,000-square-foot spa with a salon, a fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment, and a heated indoor pool.
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While you’re here, you may as well have a drink in the Lockwood Lobby Bar. We think you should order the signature house drink, the 1871 cocktail. You may also order shared plates here.
Palmer House (17 E Monroe St, Chicago)/Facebook As you imbibe in this historic lobby, make sure to look at the ornate ceiling covered in frescoes that depict scenes from Greek mythology.
Did you know that the brownie was invented here at the Palmer House? It’s true! In the late 19th century, Bertha Palmer helped create a dessert to be served at the 1893 Columbian Exposition World’s Fair. And the rest is history!
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Palmer House (17 E Monroe St, Chicago)/Facebook
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In recent years, the Palmer House has undergone over $170 million in renovations.
As you imbibe in this historic lobby, make sure to look at the ornate ceiling covered in frescoes that depict scenes from Greek mythology.
Wouldn’t you love to stay at the Palmer House, the most famous historic hotel in Chicago? Well, you can! Head to the Hilton Hotels & Resorts website to book your stay. If you have stayed here before, we would love to hear from you! Tell us all about your experience in the comments.
If you’re heading to Galena, check out the historic and luxurious Goldmoor Inn.
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Address: 17 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603, USA
