The InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile Hotel is the only hotel with an entrance on Michigan Avenue. The two tower property features dining at Michael Jordan Steakhouse and Eno and a health spa that includes a heated Olympic swimming pool. The south tower of the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile began in 1929 as the Medinah Athletic …
Hilton Chicago
The Hilton Chicago overlooks Grant Park in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood. Located on Michigan Avenue, the grand hotel is one of the city’s largest. In addition to being a favorite among conventioneers, it holds the distinction of hosting every United States President since it opened in 1927 until President Barack Obama. The building that houses …
Michigan Avenue Bridge
The Michigan Avenue Bridge was built in 1920 to connect the north and south sides of Chicago with a grand boulevard. The bridge was part of Daniel Burnham’s Plan Of Chicago, an ambitious vision that encouraged modernization of the civic infrastructure. A New Type Of Bridge The Michigan Avenue Bridge is a double-deck trunnion bascule …
Tribune Tower
With its flying buttresses and neo-Gothic architecture, the Tribune Tower is one of Chicago’s most distinctive skyscrapers. It was born out of a design competition and has become a destination in its own right, and the source of a little controversy. The Design Competition In 1922 the Chicago Tribune needed new offices so they held …
The Drake Hotel
The Drake Hotel, located at the north end of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, is synonymous with luxury and history. From its opening in 1920 until today it has remained a symbol of elegance. When it opened in 1920, the Drake Hotel was situated between the mansions of the Gold Coast and the new commercial district of …
The Berghoff Restaurant: A Chicago Institution
The Berghoff Restaurant in Chicago holds the fine distinction of being known not only for good food and beer, but also for its status as an historic treasure. Since opening in 1898 it has been a standby in the city’s landscape. It Began with Beer Herman Joseph Berghoff immigrated to the United States in 1870. …
How Chicago Got Its Name
Chicago may be the third largest city in the United States, but that doesn’t change the fact that it has an odd name. The origin of New York’s moniker is obvious. Los Angeles, while not considered angelic now, was named the City of Angels. Chicago’s name, however, is a bit more obscure. The Algonquins and …
Historic Water Tower
Located at the north end of Michigan Avenue, Chicago’s Water Tower is a cherished landmark that has stood the tests of both time and fire. For many, it is a symbol of the city’s indomitable spirit and its resurgence. The architect of this singularly recognizable landmark was William W. Boyington. He designed the water tower …
Butch McGuire’s: Rush & Division’s Standby for 50 Years
Butch McGuire’s bar in Chicago’s Gold Coast is a piece of Chicago history and is filled with tales of Windy City lore.
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Milking A Tall Tale: Mrs. O’Leary’s Cow and the Great Chicago Fire
I feel sorry for Mrs. O’Leary’s much-maligned cow. For 136 years, she’s been blamed for the Great Chicago Fire, despite Alderman Burke’s 1997 resolution to clear the Irish lass and her bovine of any wrongdoing. She certainly wasn’t responsible for the extent of the damage. The fire actually did start in the poor woman’s barn …
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Can't Keep A Good Church Down
Old St. Patrick’s is the oldest public building in Chicago, but it hasn’t been easy to get that title. Three times in its extended history it’s narrowly escaped destruction.