An Exclusive Tour of The University Club of Chicago

I’m so excited to give you an exclusive tour of the University Club Chicago! Did you know Chicago hosts several private social clubs? They’re like country clubs but in the city. No golf courses here.

Since these private clubs are closed to the public, consider this your exclusive sneak peek into one of my favorites. In addition to it being members only, photography is prohibited. So this is truly a rare occasion!

 

 

So how did I get so lucky? The University Club invited me in for a little lunch and grand tour of their beautiful space. I could not believe the architecture and the amount of history!

With so much to share, I curated a list of the most fascinating tid bits and top highlights.

The University Club, located on Michigan Avenue, boasts the most beautiful views of Millennium Park. The one thing that surprised me most was how inclusive membership is. Before we get this tour going, a few fun facts:

• The only prerequisite for applying is a four year college degree and member nomination. It is named The University Club after all.
• All University Club employees and their children are eligible to receive college scholarships through the University Club Foundation. How incredible is that?
• The University Club was arguably the first “gothic skyscraper” in the world.
• Member perks include exclusive access to ‘impossible to get’ tickets and reservations! The club scored nearly 1,000 tickets to Hamilton for their members (at ticket cost!)
• It was the first club to voluntarily admit women. You go girl!

 

Now for the tour…

 

 

A Tour of the University Club Chicago

#1: The Executive Chef, Mark Baker, spent 23 years prior at the Four Seasons. So to say you’re eating well is an understatement. Tip: in the summer, dine alfresco on the balcony, over looking Millennium Park! No big deal.

#2: You will witness REAL conversations in the dining room. Cell phones are not allowed at the table (not going to lie, this was tough for me). The rule is to keep them under the table, on your lap, out of sight. So while there, we witnessed people actually talking! Can you believe it? People not on their phones.

#3: When you dine here, you’ll feel as if you’re eating art. Chef Baker spoiled us rotten with a sampling of the desserts – which are just as delicious and magnificent as the presentations.

 

 

Next up. Hogwarts…

 

#4: …also known as the library. Stepping foot inside made me feel like I was reliving my old college days at Yale. You went there too right 😉 No, I didn’t go to Yale, but I have been there {specifically the library} and the University Club Chicago has a similar feel and ambiance. My favorite part is the special section hosting all books published by members! {Note to self, write a book at some point in my life.}

While walking through the club, you’ll find several meeting rooms disguised as intricate dining rooms. Screens and white boards are hidden out of site, but pop out of nowhere when needed. Quite clever!

 

#5: So remember that view I mentioned? Yeah… Which brings me to the BEST part! They’ve built a new rooftop dining terrace. It wasn’t complete during my visit, but it’s up and running now. Which reminds me…I need to go back to see it myself.

 

#7: Moving right along. The grand ball rooms {where they host events and galas} are the equivalent of walking into a museum. The stained glass windows are masterpieces themselves, as well as the hand painted ceilings. Makes me want to swing from the chandeliers!

 

 

#8: Best member perk? Their guest rooms! My favorite part are their ongoing specials, which provide members with unbeatable overnight rates in downtown Chicago. Many times, less than $100!

 

So now that you’ve received the grand tour, how does one get in to the University Club Chicago? And what does it cost?!

I’ll let you refer to the experts themselves, but here’s some insider scoop most people don’t know…

There’s special pricing for those under 35 and those who live outside the city {a certain distance away} – which makes it almost impossible not to join. I was shocked by how feasible it is to join – especially considering the value you get! I only scraped the service too. There are over the top events (I went to a Fight Night here once!), gym, squash courts and other dining areas. Not to mention the networking benefits.

 

 

Have you ever been to any of the private social clubs of Chicago? If so, which ones?!

A special thank you to Cara Regan {no we are not related!} and Francesca Stirrat for showing us the University Club Chicago in all her glory. Especially sharing the fascinating history and stories behind the club. I knew it was wonderful, but your knowledge took it to a whole new level.

Also, a huge thanks to my mama, Cindy (that’s us above!) for joining me on these fun escapades and taking photos. Can’t wait for our next adventure!

Also, check out the Perfect 2 Day Itinerary to Chicago. This is one of my most popular posts and enjoyed by tourists and people who live in the city alike!

 

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