The Drake Hotel (1920)

This 1920 photograph of The Drake shows the hotel soon after its opening, standing prominently at the north end of Michigan Avenue near Lake Shore Drive. Its elegant architecture and prime location quickly made it one of Chicago’s most prestigious destinations. The surrounding streets appear quieter than they would become in later decades, emphasizing the early development of the Magnificent Mile. Cars from the era and wide stretches of open roadway reflect Chicago’s transition into the automobile age. The hotel itself symbolized luxury, comfort, and sophistication in a rapidly modernizing city. Guests from around the world visited The Drake for its views, grand interiors, and reputation for excellence. The building’s limestone façade and classic design helped define the skyline along the lakefront. This moment captures Chicago as it expanded socially and economically. The Drake became a landmark almost instantly upon opening. Its early presence shaped the identity of the Gold Coast and continues to hold historic significance today.