History ofHilton Chicago
History of Hilton ChicagoOn May 2, 1927, Hilton Chicago (originally the Stevens Hotel) opened its doors as the largest hotel in the world with 3,000 guest rooms, 27 chair barber shop, a pharmacy, a candy shop, a five-lane bowling alley, 1,200 seat movie theatre and an 18 hole miniature golf course atop the hotel.
The hotel has been meticulously redesigned and restored in a way that preserves the magnificence of its early 20th Century style while incorporating all of the 21st Century conveniences the guests expect.
Celebrating 95 years
1927
The Stevens Hotel opens with 3,000 guestrooms and welcomes the Vice President of the time, Charles G. Dawes as it's first registered guest.
1946
Conrad Hilton, founder of Hilton Hotels, greeting guests at his namesake hotel in the 1950’s. Upon purchasing the hotel in 1946, Conrad’s mission was very clear, to make it not only the world’s largest hotel, but also the friendliest.
1948
The Boulevard Supper Club opens featuring elaborate ice shows.
1959
Chicago Mayor Richard J. Daley and Conrad Hilton escort her majesty Queen Elizabeth II to a banquet hosted in her Hilton honor in the hotel’s Grand Ballroom. Queen Elizabeth came to Chicago in 1959 for the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway.
1989 - present
Hilton Chicago appeared in many Hollywood films, icluding The Package, The Fugitive, Home Alone 2, The Road to Perdition, Primal Fear, and more.
Kitty O'Sheas in history
In 1986 after a historic $180 million renovation, Hilton Chicago created an authentic Irish bar experience like no other in Chicago.
To ensure that the Irish experience was as authentic as possible, the hotel brought over 13 staff members from Ireland to staff almost all the front-of-house positions, including bartenders, servers, and management positions. Many of those opening crew members at Kitty’s still work for Hilton.
After 35 years, Kitty O’Sheas remains the finest place to welcome all travelers searching for the perfect pint. Many of the traditional Irish dishes are still on the menu, along with some new favorites.
A Rich History
Discover the renowned past of our historic hotel. Take a tour through the classic Grand Ballroom and the authentic Normandie Lounge and learn about the famous guests and movies that were filmed here.
Hilton Chicago at present
With 1,544 guest rooms and suites, 235,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space, a full menu of amenities, exceptional dining options, and an ideal location in downtown Chicago, the hotel is both accommodating and convenient.
Hilton Chicago is a member of Historic Hotels of America®, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing and celebrating the finest historic hotels across America.
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