Exploring Chicago’s History One Story at a Time

There are few places in Chicago where the line between Hollywood and history blurs as perfectly as the Biograph Theater. This charming red-brick building opened its doors in 1914, at a time when movies were silent, tickets were a nickel, and going to the theater was one of the city’s favorite pastimes.

Discover the historic Palmer House in Chicago — the world’s longest continually operating hotel, reborn after the Great Chicago Fire and filled with stories of love, luxury, and a little bit of chocolate magic.

What is now Lincoln Park was once the sprawling city cemetery of Chicago. From the 1840s through the 1860s, tens of thousands of people were buried on this land.

A Chicago classic since 1920, Fannie May has been serving up Pixies, chocolates, and sweet memories for generations of locals and visitors alike.

Hidden just off State Street, Hero Coffee in Pickwick Place is one of Chicago’s smallest and most historic cafés. Located in a nine-foot-wide alley that once housed the Pickwick Stable and Farm in the 1800s, this cozy spot blends old Chicago charm with modern coffee culture. Discover how a tiny former horse stable became one of the Loop’s most beloved hidden gems.

Discover the fascinating artifacts in the Chicago Tribune Building, from historic relics to global treasures, and explore Chicago’s iconic architecture.

Step back in time at Chicago’s Fine Arts Building. Explore historic studios, hand-operated elevators, and the restored Studebaker Theater — a must-see for art and history lovers.

Tucked away just steps from Lincoln Park Zoo lies one of Chicago’s most serene hidden gems—the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool.

A beautifully restored Art Deco hall invites visitors to explore.

The park was purchased by the Chicago Park District in 1974 as part of the Lincoln Park Urban Renewal Area and officially named Oz Park...

The Art & Faith of the Creche is a must see this Christmas season. The collection of hundred's of nativity scenes from around the world...

The amazing Chicago Riverwalk is a 1.5 mile walkway along the south bank of the Chicago River. It attracts not only tourists but a place...

Lincoln Park has so much history. With 2 beautiful ponds, a free zoo, a conservatory, and many monuments that have stories hidden in...

This hidden gem is found in the iconic Marshall Field store on State & Washington in downtown Chicago. Yes, I know it is now Macy's but...

On November 26th, 1897 the historic Marshall Field clock at Washington & State Streets was installed.  It soon became a Chicago landmark....

The Wrigley Building turned 100 years old September 2021! You cannot miss this beautiful French/Spanish Renaissance Revival Style...

I thought it would be interesting to know the history of the telephone here in Chicago.  A quick timeline on the growth of an industry...