Chicago jewel - Resorting - Crowne Plaza Chicago

Travel America, March-April, 2004

The Crowne Plaza Chicago--The Silversmith, an 1890s building originally housing the jewelry and silver trade, sparkles Dom an exquisite restoration.

Facing a stretch of Wabash Avenue still known as "Jeweler's Row," the Silversmith invites guests into an entry hall accented with mosaics and a grand marble-and-cast-iron staircase. The lobby, crowned by an intricate classical relief ceiling, glows with a copper-hooded stone fireplace and custom-made oak and leather Mission-style furniture. The hotel's interior design and furnishings are reminiscent of the Prairie-style homes of framed architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

The 143 guest rooms feature 12-foot ceilings, 10-foot windows, and oversized bathrooms. Select suites have French-style doors dividing the living room from the bedroom, whirlpools, and wet bars. For privacy, a "make up room" button makes early morning knocking and "Do Not Disturb" signs obsolete by using indicators that employ heat sensors to check if the room is occupied.

The Silversmith is located in the heart of the Loop, Chicago's central business district. Just blocks are away are theaters, major department stores, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Symphony Center.

Contact: Crowne Plaza Chicago--The Silversmith, 10 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL 60603; (312) 372-7996; www.silver smith.crowneplaza.com.