Virgin Hotel

Top choice in Chicago


Billionaire Richard Branson transformed the 27-story, art deco Dearborn Bank Building into the first outpost of his cheeky new hotel chain. The airy, suite-like rooms have speedy free wi-fi, low-cost minibar items and a bed that doubles as a work desk. An app controls electronics including thermostat and TV. Guests receive earplugs, handy for dulling noise from nearby L trains.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Chicago attractions

1. American Writers Museum

0.08 MILES

Bibliophiles will have a grand time in this museum, where American writers spanning the ages – from Edgar Allen Poe to Elie Wiesel, James Baldwin to Edith…

2. Chicago Cultural Center

0.14 MILES

This exquisite, beaux-arts building began its life as the Chicago Public Library in 1897. Today the block-long structure houses terrific art exhibitions …

3. Marshall Field Building

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4. Design Museum of Chicago

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5. Marina City

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6. Riverwalk

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Winding along the Chicago River’s southern side next to Wacker Dr, this 1.25-mile-long promenade is a fine spot to escape the crowds and watch boats glide…

7. Chicago Architecture Center

0.2 MILES

The CAC is the premier keeper of Chicago’s architectural flame. Pop in to explore its excellent galleries, which feature an interactive 3-D model of…

8. Reliance Building

0.24 MILES

With its 16 stories of shimmering glass, framed by brilliant white terra-cotta details, Burnham & Root's 1895 Reliance Building is a breath of fresh air…