Chicago’s Blackstone Hotel Joins Autograph Collection
The Blackstone has found a new home in the Autograph Collection Hotels, given its rich history, exceptional design and iconic reputation. Known as the "Hotel of Presidents" for more than 100 years, the property has hosted U.S. presidents, foreign dignitaries, actors and more than a dozen movie productions.
By IvyLee Rosario
Autograph Collection Hotels is adding The Blackstone in Chicago to its portfolio of over 100 independent hotels worldwide.
Located at 636 South Michigan Ave., the 335-key hotel underwent a $139 million architectural restoration in 2008, which included incorporating state-of-the-art technology and modern amenities, as well as highlighting its early twenty-first century grandeur and craftsmanship. The renovation was led by The Gettys Group, which refreshed the work of the original architectural firm Marshall and Fox. Hotel amenities include the Mercat a la Planxa restaurant, a lobby lounge, fitness center, historic ballroom, valet parking, Wi-Fi, concierge service, a business center, a club lounge, pet-friendly accommodations and dry cleaning services.
Blackstone’s History
Blackstone Hotel
Known as the “Hotel of Presidents” for over 100 years, The Blackstone has hosted U.S. presidents, foreign dignitaries, political and mob exchanges, actors and more than a dozen movie productions. In 1920, The hotel became known for the Smoke Filled Suite following the Republican party leaders’ secret meeting to nominate Warren Harding as their candidate for president. The hotel’s Suite of Presidents saw the likes of President Dwight Eisenhower watching his nomination for president from the room in 1952, and President John F. Kennedy preparing for D.C. negotiations on the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. The Blackstone also became known as the location of Chicago gangster Al Capone’s barbershop, nestled below street level in a “barbershop” lounge that still remains today.
“The Blackstone has found its home as part of Autograph Collection Hotels given its rich history, exceptional design and iconic reputation,” said Julius Robinson, vice president & global brand lead for Autograph Collection Hotels, in prepared remarks. “Our one-of-a-kind hotels are known for providing differentiated, standout guest experiences, and we are thrilled to welcome global travelers and Chicago locals alike to this latest addition to our dynamic portfolio.”
Images courtesy of The Blackstone
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