Palmer House Hilton
17 E Monroe St., Chicago, IL, 60603
An architectural masterpiece in the downtown Loop District, the historic Palmer House Hilton has been a major Chicago landmark and a favorite of dignitaries and celebrities for over a century. Among the longest continually operating hotels in the US, the Palmer House Hilton offers guests access to more than 1,600 luxurious rooms, fine dining, and a full range of amenities.
The Basics
Even if you’re not staying at the Palmer House Hilton, it’s worth visiting for the opulent decor—check out the gilded lobby with art deco ceiling murals and Tiffany light fixtures. Step into the Empire Room, where legends such as Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louis Armstrong have performed, then take high tea in the lobby or enjoy a meal amid old-world splendor.
Several Chicago sightseeing tours feature the Palmer House Hilton, particularly those focused on history or architecture. Combine a stop there with a hop-on hop-off bus tour or a cruise on Lake Michigan. The hotel offers a luncheon-included heritage tour highlighting its rich history. On weekend evenings, be amazed by the Magic Parlour show.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Palmer House Hilton is a must-visit for history and architecture buffs.
The hotel is wheelchair-accessible and features 74 accessible rooms.
The hotel is animal-friendly—guests can take up to two pets.
It’s possible to purchase monthly memberships to the hotel’s health club, which includes access to the pool, Jacuzzi, and steam room.
How to Get There
The Palmer House Hilton is located in Chicago’s Loop District. Take the Red Line train to the Monroe stop, the Blue Line train to Monroe/Dearborn, or the Orange Line train to Adams/Wabash.
When to Get There
The heritage tour takes place Tuesday through Saturday, and the Magic Parlour show is held on Friday and Saturday. Occasionally, Palmer House hosts special events in the Empire Room.
Loop District Attractions
Chicago’s main commercial hub, the Loop District is home to lots of government offices and businesses. You’ll also find a number of attractions there, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, Chicago Cultural Center, the downtown Theater District, the Field Museum, and Millennium Park, which stages regular concerts and events.
Ways to explore
Even if you’re not staying at the Palmer House Hilton, it’s worth visiting for the opulent decor—check out the gilded lobby with art deco ceiling murals and Tiffany light fixtures. Step into the Empire Room, where legends such as Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louis Armstrong have performed, then enjoy a bite or drink in the lobby amid the old-world splendor.
Several Chicago sightseeing tours feature the Palmer House Hilton, particularly those focused on history or architecture. Combine a stop there with a hop-on hop-off bus tour or a cruise on Lake Michigan.
Accessibility
The hotel is wheelchair accessible, with several specially adapted rooms.
Age limits
The minimum age for room rental is 18; the spa and on-site eateries may operate their own age restrictions.
What to pack
Camera, swanky outfit (if you plan to enjoy a bite or drink), luggage (if you plan to stay)
What to wear
Wear weather-appropriate layers and comfortable shoes if visiting as part of a walking tour, or a smart outfit if you plan to dine or drink on-site.
Not allowed
Smoking or vaping, bringing pets above 75 pounds (34 kilograms), disruptive behavior
Amenities
Restaurants and bars, ATM, gift shop, spa
Address
The Palmer House Hilton is in the heart of downtown Chicago’s Loop neighborhood. You can get there by using public transportation, taking a taxi or rideshare service, driving, or joining a tour with included transportation.
Driving
The Palmer House Hilton is located just off Michigan Avenue and is easily accessible via numerous major routes. The hotel operates a paid parking garage.
Public transportation
Take Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, or Purple Line trains of the Chicago L to Adams/Wabash, or take Red or Blue Line trains to Monroe. Alternatively, take Metra or South Shore Line commuter trains to Van Buren Street, or use local buses.
Best times to visit
The Palmer House Hilton is open to guests 24/7. If you plan to visit, aim for daytime hours to admire its architecture and make the most of its amenities.
Best days to visit
The Loop neighborhood and the Palmer House Hilton are almost always busy—there’s rarely a bad day to go.
Best months to visit
In summer—the tourist high season in Chicago—crowds are thick and prices are high. Visit at alternative times of year instead.
Special events
While the hotel itself doesn’t host its own festivals, many are held throughout the year in nearby Millennium Park and Grant Park.
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