Chicago Staycation / InterContinental Chicago

Sometimes I forget how great of a city I live in.  There is so much culture, art and history within the city of Chicago - it really is full of hidden gems.  

I recently had the opportunity to tour one of Chicago's best kept secrets, The InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile. Originally known as the Medinah Athletic Club, built in 1929, this now historic building features two towers, offering 792 guest rooms, 8 meeting rooms, six ballrooms and a Junior Olympic-sized indoor pool.  But, perhaps the most amazing thing about The InterContinental is the immense amount of ornate detailing that is held within and on its walls.  

Historic Junior Olympic-sized indoor pool aka Johnny Weismuller Pool, located on the 14th floor of The InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile. / Photo provided by InterContinental Chicago

When the building was purchased by InterContinental in 1988, most of the beautiful detailing that makes the building so unique, was discovered under plaster coverings and faux walls.  When the building reopened its doors in 1990, officially an InteContinetal hotel, most of the uncovered murals, stained glass windows, intricate carvings, tiled floors and indoor fountains had been restored to their original appearance.   

The elegant Grand Ballroom, a two story, one hundred foot long elliptical space, was decorated with Egyptian, Assyrian, and Greek ornament and surrounded by a horseshoe-shaped mezzanine. In its center hung a 12,000 pound Baccarat crystal chandelier, the largest in North America. My favorite room, The King Arthur Court, built to function as the men’s smoking lounge, featured heavy timbering, stained glass, and a mural depicting the stories of King Arthur and Parsifal. 

The Grand Ballroom, one of six ballrooms located inside The InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile. / Photo provided by InterContinental Chicago

If you haven't had an opportunity to  experience The InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile for yourself, there is no better time then now!  Currently offering a variety of special packages and rates starting at $199 per night, this one-of-a-kind hotel is the perfect place for a special staycation in the city this Labor Day weekend!