Nostalgic is in one of the top 5 words I use to describe myself. I don’t use it because it’s a “buzzword” but because it’s truly who I am. Memories of my younger days when I would sit for hours with my dad listening to old music that was well beyond my age come to mind or how I loved listening to my grandmother’s childhood stories…well, as I got older, it all made sense…I find happiness in stories from the past. So when I was recently asked to stay at The Blackstone Hotel, I couldn’t wait to share with you my experience because it represented the best of both worlds: an older era in a more modern age.
The definition of ‘Nostalgia’ is a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past, typically for a period or place with happy personal associations.
Considered an institution of Chicago, The Blackstone Hotel has been around for over 100 years! Located in what is considered Chicago’s Cultural Mile, it has hosted Presidents, celebrities, and even mobsters. A place that has seen quite some history stepping into The Blackstone Hotel will definitely make you feel like you have gone back in time but not in the “old and stuffy” way but in an inspiring one. From the minute you enter the lobby, you’re welcomed into a stylish living space, anchored by Timothy’s Hutch, a custom-made cocktail cabinet that offers a variety of craft cocktails and a 1960s-inspired small bites menu. In this space, you can mingle or simply just sit and enjoy a cocktail while you wait for your dinner reservation. We can credit this overall luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere to The Gettys Group, a world-renowned design firm who was responsible for keeping the authentic beauty of this hotel but also for creating a more contemporary style throughout the property.
The hotel also continues to support the Chicago art community by displaying an impressive art gallery throughout the space because it has celebrated creativity and culture since the very beginning. The founder, Timothy Blackstone was an art curator himself and a benefactor to The Art Institute of Chicago – so art is deeply rooted since the early beginnings of this beautiful space.
Always remember that great travel stories are made through unique experiences and they start with where you stay. A hotel is your home away from home – a place that should provide the best comforts and inspire you to immerse yourself while you discover a new city. The Blackstone Hotel is more than just a place to stay, it goes above and beyond to gives guests and the public an experience. As new residents of Chicago, Thomas and I are constantly looking for ways to connect with the community by exploring neighborhoods, museums, and local events. Our staycation was the perfect opportunity to revisit an “older” Chicago while enjoying more modern accommodations.
Thank you to The Gettys Group for sponsoring this post.
Photography by: Jaclyn Simpson