InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile (Chicago, Illinois)

 hotel, Moorish Revival (architecture), interesting place, listed building / architectural heritage

The historic 41-story south tower was built in 1929 as the Medinah Athletic Club for the nearby Shriner's Club. The gold dome and tower which appears to be a chimney were originally to be part of a dirigible dock. It was sold in 1933, in the depths of the depression, and put to various uses before opening as the Continental Hotel in 1944.

The building became the Sheraton-Chicago Hotel in 1947. The smaller L-shaped north tower was added by Sheraton in 1961. The hotel remained a Sheraton until 1978, then converted to a Radisson. It was renamed the Continental Hotel in 1982, then closed in 1986.

In 1989, the 1961 wing was reopened as The Forum Chicago. (Forum Hotels were a business-class division of Inter-Continental.) The 1929 tower was restored and opened in 1990 as the Inter-Continental Chicago. When the Forum chain was dissolved in the late 1990s, the Forum wing was merged back into the main hotel.

Frequently referenced in architectural tours of the city, the original 1920's design of this world-class downtown Chicago Illinois hotel has been faithfully preserved through a series of renovations, which represent nearly a quarter-billion dollars of thoughtful investment. The end result is a charming destination, affording everything necessary for a relaxing visit. Enjoy an unrivaled array of recreational features–from its Junior-Olympic indoor pool and state-of-the-art fitness center, to three distinct food and beverage venues. Corporate travelers will appreciate high-speed Internet access, conscientious event support, and a full–service business center. Rediscover this beloved hotel in downtown Chicago, Illinois.

505 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 944-4100
www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/...