The World's First Virgin Hotel Is In Illinois And It's A Bucket List Must
By Linze Rice|Published July 06, 2023
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Linze Rice
Author
Ope! From the rural cornfields of DeKalb County, Linze is an Illinois native and true Midwestern gal who can make a mean bonfire and whip up a perfect marshmallow salad. Since 2014, her bylines and photography have appeared in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, and Block Club Chicago/DNAinfo Chicago, Only in Your State, and more. She has interviewed Dolly Parton, written about beloved diners along historic Route 66, visited the last Rainforest Cafe in the Illinois, and reviewed luxurious English manor-inspired hotels. Whether it's writing about a local gem or world-renowned establishment, Linze brings a heartwarming and historical perspective to each story, using facts, wit, and personal experience to impress upon readers the importance of culture, food, travel, and all things local. Her favorite destinations in Illinois include Starved Rock State Park, Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood, the charming small town of Sycamore, and historic Rosehill Cemetery. When she's not writing or photographing, Linze enjoys gardening, spending time with her husband and pets, cooking, baking, and grilling, and relaxing with trashy TV.
As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
There is no shortage of great hotels to choose from in Illinois, especially in Chicago. From the small boutique to the tried-and-true chain, the vast variety means there’s something for everyone — yet the huge selection can also mean it’s hard to narrow one down. For those who love the Windy City’s architecture and history (like me), the convenience of downtown travel, and nearly every amenity you’d need right from the comfort of your room, this first-of-its-kind, unique hotel in downtown Chicago, IL just might be the next overnight stay on your bucket list.
Virgin Hotels Chicago is located at the corner of Wabash Avenue and Lake Street in downtown Chicago.
It's the world's first Virgin Hotel from billionaire owner Richard Branson, who owns the Virgin travel and lifestyle brands which operates luxury retreats, airlines, a casino, cruises, and space travel experiences.
The hotel operates 250 rooms in the former Old Dearborn Bank Building which soars 26 stories into the Chicago skyline, outfitted with an Art Deco style and endless artistic details with 1920s flare.
Warm woods, rich reds, and glittering golds welcome you immediately upon entering the hotel. The front desk is actually an original cigar bar from the '20s!
Rooms, called chambers, are divided by privacy doors into a sleeping area and a living area. Bathrooms have perfectly-lit makeup vanities and guests can order room service, change the temperature, valet a car, and chat with the front desk via a mobile app.
Updated technology like smart TVs and SMEG mini-fridges mingle alongside vintage brass flourishes like old mail chutes and gorgeous elevator doors.
Grab a drink and food from the stunning hotel bar, or head on over to one of the resort's restaurants. From in-room dining to homemade Italian food to a Euro-style coffee bar, you won't have to jump on the "L" for something delicious.
If it were me, I'd be heading up to Cerise, the rooftop bar, ASAP. With breathtaking views of the city, incredibly crafted cocktails, and decadent bites, this is something that truly sets the Virgin Hotel Chicago apart from the others.
The hotel also has major pet perks with no size or breed restrictions. Dog-friendly rooms are designated with a pet statue outside the door, and all dogs receive a water bowl, treats, a dog bed, and a Virgin Hotels bandana. The best part? They stay for free!
