The Chicago Traveler

When I was in college, many of the class discussions about philosophy, literature, and other studies didn't end in the classroom. I spent many (beer-assisted) evenings trading ideas with fellow students. After graduation though, late-night talks like those are far and few between.

In 1887, a group of university graduates wanted a special place where they could continue to study, learn, and appreciate the arts with others. They founded the University Club.

The exclusive Club requires a university or college degree from a four-year institution, a completed nomination form, and three letters of recommendation from existing members. Members have access to four restaurants, including the 3-story high Cathedral Room with stained-glass windows and an elaborate wooden vaulted ceiling. The Michigan Room on the second floor is often used for formal dinners and receptions and is one of the most impressive rooms with mahogany walls, a stone fireplace, and a 21-foot-high (6.4 m) ceiling with 56 inlaid hand-painted panels. The 14-story headquarters (completed in 1909) also has a cocktail lounge, an indoor pool, squash courts, a full-service bath department, fitness facilities, a private library and art gallery, over 60 sleeping rooms, and a professional barbershop.

Photo credit (via Flickr): Amnestic_Arts, swanksalot, Atelier_Teee, SIU College of Business

University Club of Chicago: 76 E Monroe St; 312-726-2840
Public trans: Bus # 3, 4, X4, 14, 26, 56, 60, 127, 145, 147, 148, 151
Blue/Red Line (Monroe)
Orange/Pink/Green/Purple/Brown Line train (Madison, Adams)
http://www.ucco.com/