Palmer House Hotel

The Palmer House Hilton on State Street has anchored Chicago's hospitality since Potter Palmer built the first hotel in 1871 — which burned in the Great Chicago Fire just thirteen days after opening. The current building dates to 1925 and features one of the most ornate hotel lobbies in America.

Bertha Palmer, Potter's socialite wife, reportedly makes her presence known through perfume on the third floor. The Empire Room produces phantom big-band music, and staff describe a gentleman in formal evening wear who walks through walls in the lower-level corridors.

The Palmer House operates as a full-service hotel in Chicago's Loop. The lobby is open to the public and worth visiting for its painted ceiling alone. Ghost tours of Chicago often include the hotel. Downtown location provides excellent transit connections.

Full-service hotel in Chicago's Loop with public access to the ornate lobby. Downtown location with excellent CTA transit connections. Ghost tours of Chicago often include a stop here. Active hotel — respect guest privacy when visiting public areas. Book rooms for the full experience.