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Historic view of the Medinah Athletic Club dome against the Chicago skyline

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile

Chicago History

Journey through the history of InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, a restored landmark that has welcomed guests with timeless elegance since 1929.

Historic photograph of the Medinah Athletic Club building with dirigible overhead

1929: A Vision Rises on Michigan Avenue

In 1929, the building now known as InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile opened as the Medinah Athletic Club, a grand gathering place created by the Shriners for its 3,500 members. Designed by celebrated architect Walter W. Ahlschlager, the 32-story tower blended influences from around the world—from Egyptian and Greek details in the Grand Ballroom to Assyrian-inspired carvings, a Moorish gold dome, and a Mediterranean-style Olympic-sized swimming pool adorned with blue Spanish tiles and a Neptune fountain.
Vintage hotel lounge with elegant furnishings, fireplace, and floral arrangement

1940s: A New Chapter Begins

A decade later, developer John J. Mack gave the landmark a new life as the Continental Hotel and Town Club. As attitudes shifted and travel flourished, the property’s luxurious character became its greatest asset. The hotel soon emerged as a favorite destination for sophisticated travelers, attracting notable guests including swimming star and actress Esther Williams, who famously trained in the building’s iconic pool.
InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile hotel entrance decorated with floral displays

Today: Preserving the Past, Welcoming the Future

Reopened in 1990 as InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, the landmark once again became one of the city’s premier destinations. Nearly a century after its debut, it continues to blend timeless elegance with contemporary luxury, welcoming guests to experience a living piece of Chicago history at the heart of the Magnificent Mile.
Historic indoor swimming pool with ornate architecture and hanging lanterns

1929–1934: An Era of Extraordinary Luxury

The Medinah Athletic Club quickly became one of Chicago’s most extravagant destinations. Members enjoyed amenities rarely seen under one roof, including a miniature golf course, shooting range, bowling alley, boxing arena, gymnasium, billiards hall, archery range, and hundreds of guest accommodations. Yet, during the hardship of the Great Depression, membership waned, and in 1934, the property transitioned to new ownership following bankruptcy
Grand ballroom with crystal chandelier, marble columns, and stage

1989–1990: Restoration and Renewal

After periods under the Sheraton and Radisson brands, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts acquired the property in 1989 and launched an ambitious restoration. Guided in part by historic photographs from a donated Medinah Club yearbook, teams meticulously revived many of the building’s original design elements. The Grand Ballroom’s balcony was reconstructed, its murals and gold-leaf detailing restored, and guest accommodations thoughtfully modernized. Even public spaces were recreated with remarkable historical accuracy, honoring the building’s original craftsmanship.