Joia Restaurant Club
Description
The Blackstone Hotel in Chicago is a grand dame of luxury accommodations, steeped in history and oozing with old-world charm. This iconic Beaux-Arts beauty has been turning heads since 1910, and let me tell you, she’s only gotten better with age. I’ve stayed at my fair share of hotels, but there’s something special about The Blackstone that keeps drawing me back.
As you step into the lobby, you’re immediately transported to a world of elegance and sophistication. The marble floors, ornate chandeliers, and meticulously restored architectural details are enough to make your jaw drop. But it’s not just about looks – the staff here really know how to make you feel like royalty.
What really sets The Blackstone apart is its incredible location. Perched right on Michigan Avenue in the heart of the South Loop, you’re literally steps away from some of Chicago’s best attractions. Grant Park is right across the street, perfect for a morning jog or an afternoon picnic. And don’t even get me started on the views – if you snag a room on the higher floors, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.
Now, I’ll be honest – The Blackstone isn’t the newest kid on the block, and you might notice a few signs of wear and tear here and there. But in my opinion, that just adds to its character. It’s like a well-loved leather jacket – it’s got a few scuffs, but that’s what makes it cool.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with a perfect blend of modern amenities and classic touches. I always appreciate the little details, like the plush bathrobes and the Carrara marble bathrooms. And don’t even get me started on the beds – they’re so comfy, you might be tempted to sleep through your entire Chicago vacation!
One of my favorite things about The Blackstone is its rich history. This place has hosted countless celebrities and political bigwigs over the years, including no less than 12 U.S. presidents. You can almost feel the whispers of past conversations in the walls. If you’re a history buff like me, you’ll love exploring the hotel and imagining all the stories it could tell.
The on-site restaurant, Mercat a la Planxa, is a bit of a hidden gem. It serves up some seriously delicious Catalan-inspired cuisine. Trust me, the tapas here are to die for – I still dream about their patatas bravas.
Now, I’ll be upfront – The Blackstone isn’t the cheapest option in Chicago. But in my experience, you get what you pay for. The combination of location, luxury, and legacy make it worth every penny. Plus, there’s something to be said for treating yourself once in a while, right?
All in all, The Blackstone Hotel is more than just a place to rest your head. It’s an experience, a journey back in time, and a little slice of Chicago history all rolled into one. Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, it’s the perfect base for exploring the Windy City in style.
Key Features
• Historic Beaux-Arts architecture dating back to 1910
• Prime location on Michigan Avenue in the South Loop
• Stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline from higher floors
• Spacious, elegantly appointed rooms with modern amenities
• Luxurious Carrara marble bathrooms
• On-site Catalan-inspired restaurant, Mercat a la Planxa
• Rich history, having hosted 12 U.S. presidents and numerous celebrities
• Across the street from Grant Park
• Meticulously restored architectural details throughout the hotel
• Friendly and attentive staff providing top-notch service
• Plush, comfortable beds for a great night’s sleep
• Convenient access to many of Chicago’s top attractions
• Blend of historic charm and modern luxury
• Well-equipped fitness center for keeping up with your workout routine
• Beautiful event spaces for weddings and business meetings
• Art collection featuring works by local Chicago artists
• Concierge service to help plan your Chicago adventures
• Pet-friendly policy for those traveling with furry friends
Best Time to Visit
Ah, Chicago – a city that’s full of surprises, just like its weather! When it comes to the best time to visit The Blackstone Hotel, you’ve got options, my friend. But let me break it down for you based on my experiences and what I think you might enjoy most.
Summer (June to August) is when Chicago really comes alive. The weather is warm and perfect for exploring the city on foot. Plus, you’re right across from Grant Park, which hosts tons of summer festivals and events. Lollapalooza, anyone? Just keep in mind that this is peak tourist season, so The Blackstone might be a bit more crowded and pricey.
Fall (September to November) is my personal favorite time to visit. The weather is crisp and comfortable, perfect for long walks along Lake Michigan or through Millennium Park. The changing leaves in Grant Park create a beautiful backdrop for your stay at The Blackstone. Plus, you’ll avoid the summer crowds and might snag a better deal on your room.
Winter (December to February) in Chicago can be pretty brutal, I’m not gonna lie. But if you don’t mind the cold, it can also be magical. The Blackstone looks stunning decorated for the holidays, and you’re just a short walk from the famous Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza. Plus, winter rates are often the lowest of the year.
Spring (March to May) is a bit of a wild card. Chicago’s weather can be unpredictable, but if you’re lucky, you’ll catch some beautiful mild days. The city starts to come back to life after winter, and you might see some early blooms in Grant Park. It’s a great time to visit if you want to avoid crowds and high prices but still have a shot at decent weather.
Ultimately, the best time to visit The Blackstone depends on what you’re looking for. Want to experience Chicago in all its summer glory? June to August is your best bet. Prefer milder weather and fewer crowds? Aim for September to November. Looking for the best deals? Try winter, if you can brave the cold. And if you’re feeling lucky, spring can offer a nice balance of decent weather and lower prices.
No matter when you choose to visit, The Blackstone’s timeless elegance and prime location make it a great choice year-round. Just remember to pack accordingly – Chicago’s weather can be as unpredictable as a game of chance!
How to Get There
Getting to The Blackstone Hotel is pretty straightforward, but let me give you the inside scoop based on my experiences. Trust me, I’ve made this trip more times than I can count!
If you’re flying into Chicago, you’ve got two main airport options: O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Both are well-connected to the city center, but I’ll be honest, I prefer Midway when I’m headed to The Blackstone. It’s closer and usually less chaotic.
From O’Hare, you’ve got a few choices. The most budget-friendly option is the CTA Blue Line train. It’ll take you about an hour, but it’s direct and drops you off downtown. From there, you can either walk (about 20 minutes) or grab a quick taxi or ride-share to The Blackstone. If you’re not in the mood for public transit after a long flight, a taxi or ride-share will get you there in about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
From Midway, your best bet is the CTA Orange Line. It’s about a 25-minute ride to Roosevelt station, which is just a few blocks from The Blackstone. You can easily walk from there, or hop in a quick taxi if you’ve got heavy luggage.
If you’re driving into Chicago, The Blackstone is right on Michigan Avenue, which is pretty easy to find. But let me warn you – parking in downtown Chicago can be a nightmare. The hotel does offer valet parking, but it’s pricey. If you’re looking to save some cash, there are a few public parking garages nearby that might be cheaper.
For those arriving by train, you’ll likely come into Union Station. From there, it’s about a 10-minute taxi or ride-share to The Blackstone. You could also hop on the #1 or #3 bus heading south on Michigan Avenue.
Now, here’s a little tip from someone who’s made this trip more times than I care to admit: if you’re arriving during rush hour (roughly 7-9 AM or 4-6 PM), add some extra time to your journey. Chicago traffic can be brutal, especially on Michigan Avenue.
Once you’re in the general vicinity, The Blackstone is hard to miss. Just look for the beautiful Beaux-Arts building with “The Blackstone” written in big letters. Trust me, when you see it, you’ll know you’ve arrived somewhere special.
Remember, half the fun is in the journey, right? But I guarantee, once you step into The Blackstone’s grand lobby, any travel stress will melt away. You’ve made it, and now it’s time to enjoy all that this historic hotel and the wonderful city of Chicago have to offer!
Tips for Visiting
Alright, fellow travelers, gather ’round! After countless stays at The Blackstone Hotel, I’ve picked up a few tricks of the trade that I’m just itching to share with you. So, here are my top tips to make your visit to this grand old dame of Chicago as smooth as butter:
1. Book a room with a view. Trust me on this one. The higher floors offer some seriously jaw-dropping vistas of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. It’s worth every extra penny.
2. Don’t skip breakfast at Mercat a la Planxa. Their Spanish-inspired morning fare is a delicious way to start your day. The churros con chocolate? To die for!
3. Take advantage of the concierge service. These folks know Chicago like the back of their hand and can hook you up with restaurant reservations, show tickets, and insider tips on the best things to do in the city.
4. Pack comfortable walking shoes. The Blackstone’s location is perfect for exploring Chicago on foot, but those city blocks can be longer than you think!
5. If you’re a history buff (like yours truly), ask the staff about the hotel’s past. They’ve got some fascinating stories about famous guests and events that have taken place here over the years.
6. Don’t forget to check out the Art Hall on the fifth floor. The Blackstone has an impressive collection of contemporary art that’s worth a gander.
7. If you’re visiting in summer, pack a picnic and head across the street to Grant Park. It’s a great way to enjoy a sunny Chicago day.
8. Consider joining the hotel’s loyalty program if you plan on returning (and trust me, you’ll want to). You can rack up points for future stays and get some nice perks.
9. If you’re driving, look into nearby public parking options. The valet service is convenient but can be pricey.
10. Take a moment to enjoy the lobby. Seriously. Grab a coffee, sit in one of those plush chairs, and soak in the atmosphere. It’s like stepping back in time.
11. Don’t be shy about asking for upgrades or special amenities. The staff at The Blackstone are usually happy to accommodate if they can.
12. If you’re a light sleeper, request a room on a higher floor away from the elevator. The hotel does a great job with soundproofing, but it never hurts to be safe.
13. Check the hotel’s website or ask about any current promotions or packages. Sometimes they offer deals that include things like breakfast or parking.
14. Bring a good book or download some podcasts. The rooms are so cozy, you might want to spend an evening just relaxing and enjoying the ambiance.
15. Finally, and I can’t stress this enough, take some time to just wander around the hotel. Explore the different floors, check out the ballrooms if they’re not in use, and really immerse yourself in the history and elegance of The Blackstone.
Remember, a stay at The Blackstone isn’t just about having a place to sleep – it’s about experiencing a piece of Chicago history. So take your time, soak it all in, and enjoy every moment. Who knows? You might even run into me in the lobby, always ready to chat about this gem of a hotel!
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