A Historic & Luxurious Stay at Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel

A hotel gifted in love that stands the test of time over 150 years later. That’s the kind of legacy I didn’t just read about, I got to live. As a solo traveler with a heart for authentic, cultural charm and intentional indulgence, my stay at Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel wasn’t just a trip—it was everything I didn't know I needed. From the grand lobby to the spa, everything felt like a full-circle moment of manifestation, luxury, and alignment.

History & Legacy

Potter and Bertha Palmer set a new standard for what I desire in holy matrimony. As a wedding gift, Potter surprised Bertha with what would become one of the most legendary hotels in America. Just 13 days later, The Palmer House burned down in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. But like the love it was built on, it rose again—stronger than before.

Bertha Palmer, a visionary in her own right, quadrupled the hotel’s revenue, curated the largest collection of Impressionist art outside of France, and helped usher in firsts: the first hotel with electricity, elevators, and (my personal favorite)—the birthplace of the brownie.

The Palmers and their power-coupled romance would attract world legends and socialites from all around the world including Josephine Baker, Harry Belafonte, and Frank Sinatra. So it was only right that The Paris Perspective was hosted for a four-night stay and a signature spa treatment at the legendary hotel.

My Stay Experience

Being invited for a stay was an honor.  I stayed on the Executive Level, one of the top floors with its own private elevators, reserved for those seeking the finest accommodations. From the grand lobby with its ornate ceiling frescoes and glittering chandeliers to the personalized service, I was immersed in luxury.

The rooms? Spacious, regal, and filled with charm. The spa was a peaceful reset right in the heart of Chicago (you can read more in my Palmer House Spa blog post). After a full day of exploring, I’d come back to unwind at the hotel's prohibition-inspired speakeasy or at the sauna in the hotel's health club and pool, feet sore from heels I shouldn’t have worn, but heart full. And yes—the brownies hit different when they’re served in the very place they were born.

Best Features for Solo Travelers:

• Location: Right in the Loop, steps from major landmarks like Millennium Park, State Street shopping, and the Art Institute of Chicago.

• Safety: As a solo woman traveler, I felt completely secure navigating both the hotel and the surrounding area, even at night.

• Accessibility: Easy access to the Red and Blue CTA lines, both of which run 24/7.

• Vibe: The balance between historical grandeur and modern amenities made it feel like I was wrapped in luxury.

Final Thoughts

The monogrammed letter "P" around the hotel might stand for Palmer—but for me, it also stood for prestige, perseverance, and perspective..The Paris Perspective. I’m in awe of the synchronicities that show up when you're in alignment. I'm in awe of the synchronicities that prove the Universe listens to us and shapes reality based on our conscious thoughts and subconscious beliefs. Because you mean to tell me it's a coincidence that I absolutely LOVE brownies and was invited to stay at the hotel that created the delicacy? These "coincidental synchronicities" aren’t random. They’re reminders. That we’re always being heard. That we’re always being guided. And if you’re heading to Chicago—solo or not—Palmer House should be on your list.

Check out the full Chicago Travel Guide for more places to stay, eat, and explore. I also vlogged my experience over on YouTube so be sure to watch, like, and subscribe!

Planning your beach getaway next? Don’t miss my Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide.

Until next time, I hope that you see the world through solo travel, holistic wellness, and easeful living.