Chicago really SHOWS UP for Halloween. It’s a fun day to hit the streets of Chicago – the energy is buzzing! While we don’t “dress up” The Neighborhood Hotel, this season reminds us to look “into” our buildings as they literally have stories ingrained in the walls — kind of a, “if these walls could talk,” vibe. The Ghostbusters have certified that we maintain spirit free establishments, but some of these photos of the renovation process are a little bit haunting. Enjoy some pics and fun facts. BOO.
Our next location, The Neighborhood Hotel West Loop, is an active construction site. Portions of the building date back to 1911, while a full expansion happened in the 1920’s when Mid City Bank took over the space. In the 1950’s, MB Financial acquired the bank for their corporate headquarters until 2005. Cue the eerie music: the bank has been sitting empty for nearly two decades… The marble is still pristine and while the grandeur is apparent, the absence of human life is felt upon entry. The bank’s vaults are full of discarded deposit sheets, rusted boxes, keys, locks and lively cobwebs… new life is needed, thanks goodness for modern construction and some good vibes.
Let’s jump over to the hotel’s very first location in Chicago’s Lincoln Park. This building is from 1893 and has been a hotel since 1911. And by hotel, we actually mean a rooming house called The Wrightwood Hotel. Non creepy fun fact: the ferris wheel from the World’s Columbian Exposition was once directly across the street from the hotel. Also, we don’t have official confirmation, but the hotel was not far from where Capone liked to “hang out.” Hot tip: check out Clark Street’s annual “Spooktacular” – super fun day of tricks and treats for all ages! October 29, 2023
The Neighborhood Hotel Little Italy isn’t super old and just a few years ago it was still the Italian American Sports Hall of Fame Museum. However, Little Italy is full of very old churches that are rumored to be haunted… Our Lady of the Holy Family Catholic Church (c. 1860) survived The Great Chicago Fire, which began a few blocks away on October 8, 1871. Occasionally, local parishioners have reported seeing a white apparition…Hot tip: Check out Sheridan [Philip Henry] Park’s annual Halloween gathering! October 27, 2023
Moving on to Southwest Michigan. The Neighborhood Hotel Grand Beach dates back to 1914 when developers of the future Golfmore Hotel built The Pinewood Lodge which is now The Neighborhood Hotel Grand Beach. Pinewood Lodge was known for hosting famous heavyweight fighters of the era for training including Cinderella Man, James Braddock. During the renovation, objects were LITERALLY found in the walls and under the floors (things like an old newspaper from the 60’s with The Beatles on the cover and a few old Budweiser cans).
And finally…The Neighborhood Hotel New Buffalo… 0% spooky, all treats, no tricks.
Book your Halloween stay-cation now!
About The Neighborhood Hotel
The Neighborhood Hotel was founded by travel enthusiasts who enjoy spaces that inspire, comfort and fuel. Each suite is well equipped for short and longterm stays (i.e. kitchenettes, laundry, etc.). The Neighborhood Hotel aims to transform old buildings with cool history into well outfitted apartment style hotels that honor the old while representing the now. The vibe is fresh + fun with rooms that are stocked to support everyone from the homebody to the adventurer. The Neighborhood Hotel serves as a basecamp for the explorer and a sanctuary for the traveler who needs to recharge, reset or just chill.The suites are simple + clean punctuated by accents that bring the right amount of pop. The Neighborhood Hotel has locations in: Lincoln Park, Little Italy, West Loop (2025 opening), New Buffalo, MI and Grand Beach, MI.
