The Palmer House Hilton

A Chicago landmark for over 125 years, the Palmer House Hilton is the longest continuously operating hotel in North America. Located on historic State Street, this grand property blends timeless elegance with modern amenities and sits within walking distance of top attractions like the Shubert Theatre, Adler Planetarium, and Museum of Natural History. From its opulent murals to its storied past, Palmer House is a true icon of hospitality and design.

Recommended For

History lovers
Step into a hotel with 19th-century origins and over a century of charm.

Wedding parties
Celebrate in style with opulent ballrooms and expert planning services.

Business travelers
Enjoy Executive Level access with private check-in and concierge services.

Luxury seekers
Relax with upscale dining, spa services, and stunning historic interiors.

History

The Palmer House Hilton opened in 1871 as a wedding gift from wealthy businessman Potter Palmer to his bride, Bertha Honoré. Although the original structure was destroyed by the Great Chicago Fire just 13 days later, it was quickly rebuilt and reopened in 1873. Over the decades, the hotel has hosted presidents, celebrities, and dignitaries. The centerpiece of the hotel—the breathtaking lobby ceiling—features 21 murals restored by Lido Lippi, famed for his work on the Sistine Chapel. The Palmer House remains a testament to Chicago’s resilience, elegance, and architectural grandeur.

Accommodations & Features

This 25-story hotel offers 1,641 guest rooms and 88 suites, including recently updated Executive Level accommodations. Guests can enjoy an indoor pool, fitness center, and full-service salon located in the Lower Arcade. Meeting and event spaces span the third and fourth floors, with highlights like the Crystal Room and Grand Ballroom, which seats up to 870 guests for banquets. Classic design elements echo the elegance of Versailles and Fontainebleau.

Guest Rooms: Plush beds, modern amenities, flat-screen TVs, and luxury bath products
Suites: Spacious living areas with king beds and elevated furnishings
Executive Level Rooms: Private elevator, concierge, complimentary breakfast, and exclusive check-in
Accessible Rooms: Wheelchair-accessible showers and ADA-compliant layouts

Highlights & Visitor Favorites

21-ceiling murals restored by Sistine Chapel artisan Lido Lippi
Crystal Room and Grand Ballroom for galas and weddings
On-site salon offering hair, nails, and shoe shine services
Windsor’s Lobby Bar and Café for signature cocktails and light bites

Dining

Trader Vic’s: South Pacific fare and legendary exotic cocktails
French Quarter: Lavish buffet with New Orleans-inspired American cuisine
The Big Downtown: A 1940s-style eatery serving steaks, pizza, burgers, and more

Weddings & Events

From its very origins as a wedding gift, Palmer House has been a beloved destination for Chicago weddings. Couples can choose from seven ballrooms, accommodating intimate gatherings of 80 or grand receptions for over 1,000 guests. Each wedding includes the guidance of a professional coordinator, and packages may include a 4-hour bar, champagne toast, dinner, and custom cake. Guests enjoy discounted room blocks and a range of accommodation styles—from classic rooms to luxurious suites.

Visitor Tips

Location: Centrally located on State Street near major attractions and theaters
Wellness: Take advantage of the fitness center, pool, and in-house salon
Event Hosting: Ideal for weddings, banquets, conferences, and galas
Executive Access: Enjoy private check-in, breakfast, and exclusive lounge amenities

Location

Palmer House Hilton
17 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603
Phone: 312-726-7500
Website: hilton.com

Plan This Trip:

Location: 17 East Monroe Street , Chicago , Illinois , United States , 312-726-7500