The Drake Hotel, a landmark in Chicago, has been a symbol of luxury and elegance since its inception in 1920. Located on the Magnificent Mile, this iconic hotel has hosted a plethora of esteemed guests, including royalty, celebrities, and world leaders. Behind its grand facade and opulent interiors lies a fascinating story of its ownership, which has played a pivotal role in shaping its history and reputation. In this article, we will delve into the intriguing tale of who owned the Drake Hotel in Chicago, exploring the key figures and events that have contributed to its enduring legacy.
A Brief History of the Drake Hotel
To understand the ownership of the Drake Hotel, it is essential to first grasp its rich history. The hotel was built by John Drake and his son, Tracy Drake, who were prominent businessmen and hoteliers of their time. The Drakes envisioned a luxurious hotel that would cater to the growing number of travelers and businessmen flocking to Chicago. With an investment of $10 million, the Drake Hotel opened its doors on New Year’s Eve in 1920, featuring 600 rooms, a grand ballroom, and an assortment of luxury amenities. The hotel quickly gained popularity, becoming a favorite among the city’s elite and high-society individuals.
The Early Years: John and Tracy Drake
John Drake, the founder of the hotel, was a pioneering figure in the hospitality industry. He began his career in the hotel business in the late 19th century, managing several prominent hotels in Chicago. His son, Tracy, joined him in the business, and together they formed the Drake Hotel Corporation. The Drakes were known for their exceptional hospitality and innovative approach to hotel management, which helped establish the hotel as a benchmark for luxury and service. Under their ownership, the Drake Hotel flourished, attracting a loyal clientele and earning a reputation for excellence.
Expansion and Renovations
In the 1920s and 1930s, the Drake Hotel underwent several expansions and renovations, which further solidified its position as a premier luxury hotel. The Drakes invested heavily in modernizing the hotel’s facilities, adding new amenities, and enhancing its services. These efforts paid off, as the hotel continued to attract a discerning clientele, including Hollywood stars, royalty, and world leaders. The Drake Hotel’s grandeur and elegance made it a popular venue for high-society events, weddings, and galas, cementing its status as a Chicago landmark.
Changes in Ownership: The Hilton Era
In 1946, the Drake Hotel was sold to the Hilton Hotels Corporation, marking a significant turning point in its history. Conrad Hilton, the founder of Hilton Hotels, was a visionary entrepreneur who recognized the potential of the Drake Hotel to become a flagship property for his company. Under Hilton’s ownership, the hotel underwent significant renovations and expansions, including the addition of new rooms, suites, and amenities. The Hilton era saw the Drake Hotel become an integral part of the company’s luxury portfolio, with a strong focus on exceptional service and hospitality.
Modernization and Restorations
In the 1960s and 1970s, the Drake Hotel underwent extensive modernization and restoration efforts, aimed at preserving its historic charm while incorporating contemporary amenities. The hotel’s iconic lobby, rooms, and suites were meticulously restored to their original grandeur, while new features such as air conditioning, elevators, and modern telecommunications systems were added. These efforts ensured that the Drake Hotel remained a competitive and desirable destination for travelers and locals alike.
Contemporary Ownership: The Hilton Legacy Continues
Today, the Drake Hotel is owned by the Hilton Worldwide company, a leading global hospitality corporation. As part of the Hilton portfolio, the Drake Hotel continues to uphold its legacy of luxury, elegance, and exceptional service. The hotel has undergone several renovations and restorations in recent years, including a major $60 million renovation in 2014, which updated its rooms, suites, and public areas while preserving its historic character. The Drake Hotel remains a beloved landmark in Chicago, attracting visitors from around the world who come to experience its unparalleled hospitality and timeless charm.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Drake Hotel
The Drake Hotel in Chicago is a testament to the power of vision, innovation, and exceptional hospitality. From its humble beginnings as a family-owned business to its current status as a luxury flagship for Hilton Worldwide, the hotel has undergone significant transformations while remaining true to its core values. The key figures and events that have shaped its history, including the Drakes, Conrad Hilton, and the Hilton Corporation, have all contributed to its enduring legacy. As a symbol of Chicago’s rich history and cultural heritage, the Drake Hotel continues to inspire and captivate visitors, offering a unique and unforgettable experience that embodies the essence of luxury and hospitality.
| Owner | Years of Ownership | Notable Contributions |
|---|---|---|
| John and Tracy Drake | 1920-1946 | Established the hotel as a luxury landmark, introduced innovative hospitality concepts |
| Conrad Hilton and Hilton Hotels Corporation | 1946-present | Expanded and modernized the hotel, introduced new amenities and services, preserved historic charm |
The story of the Drake Hotel’s ownership is a fascinating tale of vision, innovation, and dedication to excellence. As a beloved landmark in Chicago, the hotel continues to thrive, offering a unique and unforgettable experience to its guests. Whether you are a history buff, a luxury traveler, or simply a curious visitor, the Drake Hotel is a must-visit destination that embodies the spirit of hospitality and elegance.
What is the history of The Drake Hotel in Chicago?
The Drake Hotel, a landmark Chicago hotel, has a rich and storied history dating back to 1920. Built during the “Roaring Twenties,” the hotel was designed by the renowned architectural firm Marshall and Fox. The hotel’s opening on New Year’s Eve in 1920 was a grand affair, with over 2,000 guests in attendance, including some of the city’s most influential socialites and business leaders. Since its inception, The Drake Hotel has been a symbol of luxury and sophistication, hosting countless high-society events, including weddings, galas, and charity functions.
Over the years, The Drake Hotel has undergone several renovations and restorations, ensuring that it remains a premier destination for travelers and locals alike. Despite these changes, the hotel has managed to maintain its original charm and character, with many of its original architectural features still intact. Today, The Drake Hotel is a member of the Historic Hotels of America and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, solidifying its position as a beloved and iconic Chicago landmark. As such, it continues to attract visitors from around the world, drawn to its unique blend of history, luxury, and old-world charm.
Who are the current owners of The Drake Hotel?
The current owners of The Drake Hotel are the Hilton Worldwide group, a leading global hospitality company. Hilton Worldwide acquired The Drake Hotel in 2010, as part of its efforts to expand its portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts. Under Hilton’s ownership, The Drake Hotel has continued to thrive, with the company investing heavily in renovations and upgrades to ensure that the hotel remains a top destination for travelers. Hilton’s ownership has also brought a new level of international recognition and exposure to The Drake Hotel, with the hotel now being part of a global network of luxury hotels.
As a result of Hilton’s ownership, The Drake Hotel has been able to capitalize on the company’s extensive resources and expertise, including its global distribution network and loyalty program. This has enabled the hotel to attract a wider range of guests, from business travelers to leisure tourists, and has helped to drive growth and revenue for the hotel. Despite being part of a large global chain, The Drake Hotel has managed to maintain its unique character and independence, with Hilton respecting the hotel’s history and heritage while also introducing new amenities and services to enhance the guest experience.
What makes The Drake Hotel a unique and special place?
The Drake Hotel is a unique and special place due to its rich history, stunning architecture, and commitment to providing exceptional service to its guests. From its opulent lobby to its lavishly decorated rooms and suites, The Drake Hotel exudes a sense of luxury and sophistication that is unmatched by other hotels in Chicago. The hotel’s prime location on the Magnificent Mile, one of the city’s most famous shopping and dining destinations, also makes it an ideal base for exploring the city. Whether guests are looking to experience the best of Chicago’s culture, entertainment, or cuisine, The Drake Hotel is the perfect place to start.
One of the key factors that sets The Drake Hotel apart from other hotels is its attention to detail and commitment to excellence. From the hotel’s impeccably trained staff to its extensive range of amenities and services, every aspect of the hotel is designed to provide guests with a truly unforgettable experience. The hotel’s famous Afternoon Tea, served in the stunning Palm Court, is a particular highlight, with its delicate finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries. With its unique blend of history, luxury, and old-world charm, The Drake Hotel is a truly special place that continues to captivate guests from around the world.
What amenities and services does The Drake Hotel offer its guests?
The Drake Hotel offers a wide range of amenities and services to its guests, including a fitness center, spa, and business center. The hotel’s fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and offers stunning views of Lake Michigan, while the spa provides a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. The business center is equipped with meeting rooms, computers, and printers, making it an ideal base for business travelers. The hotel also offers a range of dining options, including the famous Drake Bros. restaurant, which serves classic American cuisine, and the Coq d’Or, a charming cocktail bar that has been a Chicago institution for over 80 years.
In addition to these amenities, The Drake Hotel also offers a range of services designed to make guests’ stays as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. These include concierge services, where the hotel’s knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations and bookings for everything from restaurants to theater tickets, and a range of packages and promotions, including romantic getaways and family vacations. The hotel also offers a range of amenities for children, including babysitting services and a kid’s program, making it an ideal destination for families. With its extensive range of amenities and services, The Drake Hotel is the perfect place to stay for both business and leisure travelers.
How has The Drake Hotel been involved in the local community?
The Drake Hotel has a long history of involvement in the local community, with the hotel supporting a range of charitable initiatives and events over the years. The hotel has been a key partner in several high-profile charity events, including the annual Chicago Air and Water Show, which raises money for local children’s charities. The hotel has also supported a range of local arts and cultural organizations, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Art Institute of Chicago. In addition, the hotel has a strong commitment to sustainability, with a range of initiatives in place to reduce its environmental impact, including energy-efficient lighting and a recycling program.
The Drake Hotel’s involvement in the local community is not limited to charitable initiatives, with the hotel also playing a key role in promoting local businesses and entrepreneurs. The hotel’s restaurant and bar, for example, feature a range of locally sourced ingredients and products, while the hotel’s gift shop showcases the work of local artisans and craftspeople. The hotel has also partnered with a range of local businesses to offer exclusive packages and promotions, including a “Shop and Stay” package that includes a discount at a local department store. By supporting local businesses and initiatives, The Drake Hotel is helping to drive growth and development in the local community, while also providing its guests with a unique and authentic Chicago experience.
What is the significance of The Drake Hotel’s architecture and design?
The Drake Hotel’s architecture and design are significant because they reflect the hotel’s rich history and cultural heritage. The hotel’s exterior, with its elegant terra cotta and brick façade, is a prime example of the “Commercial Style” of architecture, which was popular in the 1920s. The hotel’s interior, with its grand lobby, sweeping staircases, and ornate details, is equally impressive, featuring a range of decorative styles, including Art Deco and Gothic Revival. The hotel’s design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional, with a range of cleverly designed features, including a revolving door and a mail chute, that were innovative for their time.
The Drake Hotel’s architecture and design have been recognized and celebrated by a range of organizations, including the National Register of Historic Places, which listed the hotel as a historic landmark in 1980. The hotel has also been the subject of several books and documentaries, including a comprehensive history of the hotel published in 2010. Today, The Drake Hotel is considered one of the most iconic and beloved buildings in Chicago, with its stunning architecture and design continuing to inspire and delight visitors from around the world. By preserving and protecting its historic architecture and design, The Drake Hotel is helping to maintain the cultural heritage of Chicago, while also providing a unique and memorable experience for its guests.
How can I book a room or event at The Drake Hotel?
To book a room or event at The Drake Hotel, guests can visit the hotel’s website or contact the hotel directly by phone or email. The hotel’s website features a range of booking tools and packages, including special offers and promotions, while the hotel’s sales team can provide personalized assistance and recommendations to help guests plan their stay or event. The hotel also offers a range of services to help guests plan their visit, including concierge services and a range of packages and promotions designed to make the most of their stay.
In addition to booking a room or event, guests can also take advantage of a range of other services and amenities offered by The Drake Hotel, including parking, dining, and fitness center access. The hotel’s website and sales team can provide more information on these services and amenities, as well as answer any other questions guests may have about their stay or event. With its range of booking options and services, The Drake Hotel is the perfect place to stay or host an event, offering a unique and memorable experience that is sure to exceed expectations. Whether guests are looking for a romantic getaway, a business conference, or a family vacation, The Drake Hotel has something to offer.