Name: The St. Regis Chicago
Price range: USD744.45
Rating: 4.3

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Historic hotels in Chicago

Chicago, the third-largest city in the United States, is immersed in history, some of which is encapsulated within its historic hotels. From architectural marvels that tower above the cityscape to smaller establishments that have housed famous guests, Chicago's vintage hotels each have their unique story. These properties provide a glimpse into the city's past, recounting tales from the roaring 20s, the cruise era, and beyond. Some of these famous historic hotels include the Palmer House, the Drake, and the Congress Plaza Hotel.

The Palmer House is considered to be one of the oldest hotels in Chicago, with its doors opened since 1871. It survives today as a classic representation of luxurious comfort coupled with historic significance. More than a century old, the Palmer House boasts a storied history, surviving the Great Chicago Fire, and hosting an array of prominent figures such as Mark Twain and Charles Dickens. The design reflects a lush, opulent style, with the lobby featuring a ceiling fresco by French painter Louis Pierre Rigal.

Another iconic hotel in Chicago, the Drake Hotel, is renowned for its luxurious accommodations that have been preserved since its opening in 1920. Overlooking Lake Michigan, the Drake Hotel has accommodated many famous guests, including Walt Disney, Frank Sinatra, and Queen Elizabeth II. The hotel’s grandeur is exhibited through its high-end dining and shopping options, as well as its traditional English-style Afternoon Tea, which has been a cherished tradition since the 1920s.

The Congress Plaza Hotel, built for the World's Columbian Exposition in 1893 and often referred to as the "Landmark of Chicago Hospitality," is another eye-catching historic hotel. Its impressive 14-story structure echoes designs from the 19th century with a mix of modern facilities. The Congress Plaza Hotel has a dubious reputation for being one of the most haunted hotels in the city, but it also carries an air of grandiosity and historic charm. These historic hotels serve as constants in the ever-evolving landscape of Chicago, offering unique stays enriched by the city's past.

Cultural attractions in Chicago Illinois

Art Institute of Chicago
Housing one of the largest and most impressive collections of artworks in the world, the Art Institute of Chicago is a must-visit for art aficionados. Wander through the extensive halls to gaze at masterpieces from across the centuries and continents.
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Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a state-of-the-art collection of architecture, landscape design, and art. Home of the famous landmark, Cloud Gate, also known as 'The Bean,' this park in downtown Chicago is a popular tourist attraction.
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Navy Pier
Situated on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is a Chicago landmark and a top tourist destination. With a variety of attractions including a Ferris wheel, theater, museum, and food vendors, it offers something for everyone.
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Chicago Cultural Center
Once the city's main public library, the Chicago Cultural Center now hosts a wide range of cultural events and exhibitions. Its stunning architectural features, including the world's largest Tiffany stained-glass dome, make it a destination in its own right.
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Field Museum
The Field Museum offers everything from artifacts of ancient civilizations, to interactive exhibits about today's cultures from around the world, to immersive recreations of various ecosystems, making it a must-visit for all ages and interests.
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Natural attractions in Chicago Illinois

Chicago Botanic Garden
The Chicago Botanic Garden is a 385-acre living plant museum situated on nine islands in the Cook County Forest Preserves. It features 27 display gardens in four natural habitats: McDonald Woods, Dixon Prairie, Skokie River Corridor, and Lakes and Shores.
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Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is a 1,208-acre park situated along Lake Michigan. It is also the home of Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in North America. Its sprawling green spaces, trails, ponds, and beaches make it a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike.
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North Avenue Beach
North Avenue Beach is one of Chicago's most popular beaches. With breathtaking views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan, it hosts various outdoor activities like swimming, volleyball, and biking.
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Garfield Park Conservatory
Garfield Park Conservatory, one of the largest and most stunning greenhouse conservatories in the US. It houses thousands of plant species from around the world, spread among eight indoor display gardens.
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Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan offers stunning views and a variety of activities like swimming, boating and fishing. This body of water borders the city to the east and is home to a variety of wildlife including several species of trout and salmon, making it a favorite among anglers.
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Top-rated restaurants in Chicago Illinois

Alinea
Alinea has long been synonymous with innovative and ground-breaking food. Its chef and owner, Grant Achatz, is well-known throughout the culinary world. Alinea has three Michelin stars and has been named one of the top restaurants in the world by numerous international publications.
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Girl & The Goat
Girl & The Goat, led by Chef Stephanie Izard, has been packing in diners since its opening in the summer of 2010. Plating a variety of imaginative dishes, particularly its roasted beets, escargot ravioli, and goat empanadas, the restaurant has proved it is well-deserving of its many accolades and hype.
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Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
Known for being a celebrity hotspot, Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse not only serves some of the best steaks in town but also offers a lively bar scene with classic cocktails. The restaurant is known for its exceptional service, expansive portions, and dedicated regulars.
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Au Cheval
Au Cheval is widely acclaimed for its burgers. Though the menu might be small at this egg-focused diner, the quality of the ingredients and the care in their preparation more than make up for it. Their burger is reputed to be one of the country's best, and patrons also rave about their thick-cut peppered bacon.
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Topolobampo
Opened in 1989 by celebrity chef Rick Bayless, Topolobampo is a delight for serious food lovers, serving gourmet Mexican dishes that are innovative and meticulously prepared. Regularly changing themed menus and an extensive tequila list have made it a standout in Chicago's dining scene.
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