Had the opportunity to stay @ ULCC for a weekend. Very much enjoyed it! FOOD: I enjoyed every single item I ordered (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with one exception - the Caesar salad. The dressing is very bland, which makes the salad forgettable. Everything else was delicious! [I inhaled the club sandwich and fries at lunch!] ROOM: As some have noted, this is not a new/modern décor room. [If that's what you are seeking, then this isn't the place for you.]. I found the room on-par with an older Ritz-Carlton room. Everything has been well-maintained, and the bedding was lovely. Some have complained about room size. Well, I booked a basic room...and my room was anything but small. In fact, it was quite large! The bathroom size was also perfectly adequate - the shower was nice. Some have also complained about noise from other rooms. Well, my room had an adjoining door (obviously, locked!)...and I did notice that I could hear my neighbor when he spoke loudly. [Rather than coming through the wall, the sound seemed to be coming through the adjoining door.] Traveling alone, I spent little time in my room and used my white noise machine to sleep...so my neighbor wasn't a problem. SERVICE: Now this is what ULCC does particularly well. Most of the staff members have been there a very long time, and their love for the place shows. One server just retired after having worked there for 50 years! (Can you imagine?!) Every staff member was super kind and welcoming. I'm so glad that I got to spend a weekend at ULCC. It's a special place! read more

Normally, the Union League Club wouldn't be available to us because we aren't members. However, because the conference my wife was attending was held in one of its conference halls, we were able to book a room there. The club is an interesting place to stay, even if the security is a bit hardcore--no, there weren't full cavity searches or anything similar, but you better have your key card ready if you enter from outside and want to use the coffee house outside the perimeter. We'll start with the pluses (or whatever comes to my mind first). The building has its historic charm, being that it was built in 1926 with 23 floors, including four that comprise the health club and spa, at least two for conference halls and gatherings, an historic library, and a bar and restaurant that offers a breakfast buffet in the mornings -- so long as you have tickets. The grand wood-paneled hallways and chandeliers, combined with the craftsmanship of the designs in the doorway, the elevator exterior, and the stairwell etchings, make you feel like you are touring a museum. Combined with the extensive artwork, you would feel that way. The Union League Club holds one of the largest private art collections in the country, second only to the Art Institute of Chicago in the number of artworks on display (about a 10 to 15-minute walk away). The collection is impressive, especially in the Presidential Hall on the third floor, where many American Impressionist paintings are located, including a presidential portrait of George Washington. For an historic building, they do have really good fitness facilities, including a gym, a lap pool, steam rooms, and a whirlpool. They also offer a spa if you need a massage or other pampering, which I thought was cool. For food and beverage, the first-floor coffee house has convenient workspaces with Wi-Fi that works better on the lower floors than the higher ones. While the coffee house offers quick, ready-made breakfast and sandwich items, along with solid espresso drinks, the fourth-floor bar and lounge offers more conventional meals and cocktails, with a respectable spirit shelf selection. For breakfast, a buffet is offered that can be either included if you're staying there, or if you have vouchers based on whether you're attending a conference. Otherwise, there is a surcharge. If you are staying at the Club, note that Wi-Fi is incredibly unreliable in the guest rooms, especially on the higher floors, such as the eighth. If you're working remotely, you will need to access either the third-floor presidential hall or adjacent bar room, or go down to the first-floor coffee house. That can be a challenge if you're looking for a private area without people walking in and out or there being a scheduled event. You could try the vacant telephone stalls on the third floor as well (remember those if you're a Gen X or older?), since the lighting and sliding doors work and can provide a quiet, isolated space--but there are no outlets for plugging in laptops or cell phones. The Union League Club also has a strictly enforced dress code throughout most of the building, except on the top four floors for the fitness and health center and when you're heading to the coffee house or outside. If you're perusing the hotel, colored shirts with pants, dresses, blouses, or pressed jeans without holes, with closed-toe shoes, will be required, as security will call you out if you're not dressed appropriately. And speaking of security... this is a Club that strictly enforces membership or granted access, with a highly vigilant front desk and security staff tracking every single person that comes and goes from the building. While this makes the building incredibly safe and keeps those without access or unwelcome persons from entering, it can be burdensome for those staying there who forget their keycard or identification. You will be asked to provide an appropriate hotel key card or ID upon entering, unless you are recognized by security personnel. If you don't have it, you won't be allowed to enter. This can be burdensome, especially if you're coming from outside and want to use the coffee house, and the guards think you're trying to steal a painting, even though you came through 30 minutes earlier with your access. If you're trying to use the coffee house after coming down the escalator and it's before their 7 AM opening, they will physically come after you, and it will look like they're going to frisk you. They may not, but the constant vigilance is tiresome. The building has a lot of history, and if you do have the chance to stay there, it can be fun. But the security measures are a challenge if you do. read more

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The hotel stay was fine. It was clean, had an interesting history, and I loved the art collection. The outdoor space in the evenings was also lovely. One downside was the strict key card checks every time we entered, which became annoying when coming and going often. The low score is mainly due to the customer service after our stay. We left a stuffed animal behind the pullout bed and reported the exact location and room immediately after leaving. After weeks of calls and follow-ups, we received no real help or updates. I've had more valuable items returned by other hotels, so the lack of effort to retrieve a stuffed animal was frustrating. This is not a criticism of the cleaning staff, but of the poor communication and lack of initiative from management. read more

I have attended numerous luncheons hosted here, but last night was my first dinner there in well over 20 years. The food was outstanding and the service exceptional! Wonderful venue! read more

Union League Club - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Do not stay in the hotel if you want to get some sleep. The hotel has wedding parties get ready in the conference rooms at the end of the hall on many floors. The noise starts at 7 in the morning and goes on until check out. Managements answer to the problem is, "We didn't know this was going on." Two other people from other floors were complaining about the same issue, so they are very aware of the noise, kids running up and down the hall and lack of consideration for guests paying top dollar for their rooms. read more

Attended a breakfast during the DNC 2024 convention sponsored by Dream.org. Dream.Org mission is to close prison doors and open doors of opportunity into the green economy. They strive to bring people together across racial, social, and partisan lines to create a future with freedom, dignity and opportunity for all. The event was packed with leading democrats who believe in criminal justice reform, ethical tech and defending against climate change. The message was good. The food was great. I didn't take a picture because didn't wanna alert secret service. Anyway, served a plate of pastries, yogurt parfait, omelette with asparagus, potatoes and grilled tomatoes. Food was good and table setup was elegant. Venue itself is easily accessible by CTA. Plenty of elevators. Bathroom and conference rooms classically decorated and clean. read more

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Very fancy place. Very good service. Food was plated very nicely. Tasted pretty good nothing crazy. read more

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This is a mostly private club in downtown Chicago. There are three restaurants and at least 4 bars here, as well as multiple exercise facilities, pool, meeting rooms, ball rooms, an amazing library, etc. There are also many hotel rooms that I believe are able to be booked by non-members at a higher price. There is almost always something fun going on. The staff are generally very nice and helpful. The drinks are great and have lots of variety. The food is also excellent, though not quite as varied as one might expect. Looking to join a great club with tons of great benefits? Come here! read more

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Stopped here while in the job. High end all the way around but the employees I've come in contact with have always been helpful. Parking can be tough so have a plan as you're right across from the federal building and as you'd expect zero tolerance where parking is concerned. Great helpful nice people plain and simple read more

We were here to celebrate the wedding of a couple that we know. The one guy is a member and decided to have the wedding and reception there. He arranged a block of rooms for out of town guest, but we decided to stay for the weekend as well instead of driving home. The entrance is on Federal although the address is on West Jackson. We were able to get a Spot Hero spot right next to the club, so we didn't have to walk far with our luggage. When you walk in, you know you have walked into an old school club with lots of wood. Check-in is at a front desk that is, for me, old school, as there was one person working the desk and it took a little time to get checked in. There is amazing art everywhere, it is like walking around in a museum. Our room was nice, but on the small side. There was no refrigerator and they do not allow you bring in your own alcohol, like I normally do when I am staying away from home. Because this was an event we were invited to, I respected that rule. There was the weird table lamp in the room, and I had no idea what to make of it. I have seen this style before from Ethan Allen and I just don't get it. Overall, the Union League knocked this event out of the water, from the opening welcome reception to the ceremony to the wedding reception. Everything was complete on point and well-orchestrated. The room where the reception was held was amazing. The groom and groom had their initials emblazed on the floor as well as the menus, etc. That was an amazing touch. The service during the meal was great as was the food. On the day of the wedding, we had lunch in the main dining room. The food was good, and it was funny to see different prices for members vs. non-members. The Doctor and I discussed the possibility of joining, but at this point in time, don't see the rationale for joining something where we most likely would not attend all that often. For now, we will just rely on attending events with folks who are members. read more

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Amazing civilized people. Appreciated the downtown amenities and excellent food. Would reccomend to anybody who enjoys socializing.

Overpriced, Moldy, and Rude - Never Again We paid a small fortune for 8 nights (2 rooms) and left feeling disrespected and disgusted. This hotel looks upscale on the surface, but it's all show -- the experience was awful from start to finish. Main issues: Rude, elitist staff: We were treated coldly at check-in and throughout. Unless you're a "club member," expect to feel like an outsider. Humiliating dress code: We were asked to change clothes while sitting in the gastropub after a long travel day. Totally unnecessary and embarrassing. Disgusting rooms: Mold in the shower Broken curtains One window sealed shut with duct tape Stained, chipped furniture Poor housekeeping: Our maid never once restocked toiletries -- even after we asked. Unreliable valet: Constant issues with car retrieval every morning. Club members were always prioritized. Only saving grace? A few staff who were actually competent: Shiza (server), Dan (bartender), and Clark (front desk) -- they were kind and professional. Sadly, they were the only exception. We send a lot of travelers here, and no one should deal with this. None of our colleagues will stay here again. Avoid unless you enjoy mold, rudeness, and feeling unwelcome. read more

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This place was very nice. My company held our Kettle Awards here last night - It's been here for many years but this was my first time attending. The reception was in the ballroom on the 6th floor and dinner was in the room on the 5th floor. All of the staff is extremely courteous and will answer any questions you have about where events are or even the art on the walls - I was sitting and taking a break with my boss and one of the security guards told us that the club has like the second largest art collection, I believe in Chicago. They even have a Monet on display right now. The reception included a three-course dinner and everything was done very nicely. I would definitely plan an event here again if I was the one organizing it. read more

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The ULC of Chicago is timeless and continuous to be a shining star in Chicago. I always look forward to visiting even if I make-up an excuse to do it. In my opinion, this is Chicago's best members only club. read more

shower is broken - low mantaince , ive no idea how sophistocated city they name one of the best on the world could be like this

I can't say I expect to be at the Union League Club again anytime soon. I don't really know what the union league club original purpose was. Social club or something post Civil War? From what I knew if it it was somewhat exclusive; I know folks who worked as federal law clerks across the street and their judge would take them here for celebratory and/or holiday meals sometimes, because the judges all get memberships (whether that's a gift of the ULC or the court I don't know, but luckily that's irrelevant). I hadn't realized it is--at least generally--a members-only type of place. I say all this to make clear any kind of bias that from which I might be writing this review. I've had a series of meetings here over the last week. Employees have--generally--been courteous. Valet has never been out when I've gotten here, but luckily the organization I was with has validated parking in the lot next door (General Parking, on the corner of Federal & Van Buren). But the problem didn't crop up until today. When I arrived--running late, since it was super foggy this morning--I told the woman at the front desk the organization I was with and asked her where we were meeting today. "8th floor," she said--great! That's where we were last time. As I made my way toward the elevator, a male employee stepped in front of me and asked that I check my coat. I told him I was fine but he continued to block my way and said I needed to check my coat at the coat check because it's a requirement of the club. I said that it hasn't been a requirement last week, because I'd worn my coat upstairs both days I was here, to which he replied that was an oversight. Since I was blocked in with people to my left and this person in front of me, I had no choice but to check my coat so I could get through to the elevators and make it to my meeting. Only when I got to the elevator did I recognize that one of the folks to my left--who had been blocking me in on that side--was a colleague. He had apparently been arguing with another employee about the required coat check, but with a mask on and being in a hurry myself I didn't recognize him. To my surprise, my colleague was allowed to go upstairs with his coat on. There are a few issues here. The lack of consistency in applying this policy is a problem. There were several people upstairs in our meeting who had their coats with them. There were also several backpacks. So one can bring a big backpack but for some reason coats are off limits? The way this shook out is... disappointing to say the least. The lack of consistency in applying this policy is problematic. When does is one person required to give up their jacket and another is not? Women's clothes don't tend to have as many pockets as men's, and I only had as many pockets as I did because I was wearing a jacket I could stuff my keys and ID wallet into. It's also been chilly (to me, anyway) in the rooms we've been working in, and as expected I was cold within 10 minutes (of a 2.5-3 hour session of meetings). What's especially disturbing is that I'm a woman of color who was speaking with a white name, and my colleague arguing at the same time is also a white male. I did not feel in a position to argue my point with this person who was literally blocking me from getting to where I needed to go, and I'm all too aware of the ways I which WOC are seen as "aggressive" or "uncooperative" in ways that others aren't. This goes back to the lack of consistency, too. It's just not ok. I made it to my meeting which a couple of minutes to spare, foregoing a bathroom stop since the 7th floor since the bathrooms were on the 8th. Oh, did you notice I said 7th floor? The woman at the front desk had told me the 8th, so luckily I ended up in the elevator with a couple colleagues who got me to the right place. read more

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The WORST hotel stay I've ever had. For a place that prides itself on being a "luxury" establishment, it's front desk staff was anything but. The first thing I am told before I check in is that I am not adhering to their dress code (if my room was ready on time I would have happily gone to change). Upon entering our room, we found that there was no refrigerator. We called the front desk and they said that one would be up shortly (shortly meant the NEXT DAY after I asked housekeeping instead of the front desk for the FOURTH time). Obviously since we couldn't store our food anywhere the first day, we called for utensils. Lo and behold, we were told that they don't have utensils! Funnily enough, this supposedly luxury hotel has three "elegant dining options". I suppose the other guests eat with their hands. Most importantly, there are hidden fees to hell and back. If you're not a member of this amazing and wonderful club, you get charged a 20% surcharge for breathing the air in the vicinity of this hotel for your entire stay. In the famous words of Snoop Dogg, "B***h please". Save your money and go somewhere that doesn't treat you like a second-class citizen. read more

What stands out at the Union League Club of Chicago is the staff. Every single person I interacted with, from the front desk, to the restaurant, to the housekeeper, to the coat check, to the library was unfailingly polite, helpful and service-oriented. read more

Wow I have to say this place is really impressive! I came here for a 3 day tax seminar in the crystal ballroom. The space was beautiful and worked very well for a large seminar. What really impressed me was the food. Each morning they offered a continental breakfast, buffet lunch and two snacks. Everything was delicious! The baked goods in the morning didn't look like much, but tasting is believing and believe me: their pastries are out of this world! Anything with the flaky croissant crust is to die for, especially the pecan ones! The lunches were all beautifully laid out with everything one could ask for. First day was sandwich platters, second day Mexican fare, and third day was salmon and chicken. Each day there was an accompanying soup and various complimenting sides. It was all very flavorful and well attended by the staff. The staff was on hand throughout the seminar, cleaning/bussing and setting up, in a very quiet. professional and discreet way. The first evening we had a reception downstairs which offered decadent passed appetizers and drinks in a beautiful bar/reception area. Throughout the entire club, I noticed various artworks that caught my eye, and the architecture alone was quite artistic as well. I would love to return to check out their two restaurants and their bakery some time soon! read more

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I came on a tour for the Chicago Architecture Foundations. This is one of those surprise special treasures that you don't really know about unless you dig under the surface; well, it is a private club for well-off folks so not everyone will be able to experience it (although they do have some public events). Fascinating history and an amazing art collection: https://ulcc.org/web/pages/about-us. In an ideal world where I had more time and a little more money I would love to come here often! read more

Diane and I had a very nice three-night stay here, courtesy of our sponsors, who we met on a cruise ship two years ago. The place is classy throughout; rooms are cushy and comfortable; and the Athletic Club is superb, with a large swimming pool, full basketball court, steam room and sauna, whirlpool spa, cold plunge, and even a darkened sleeping room with beds covered with sheets and thick pillows. Only a clock is illuminated overhead. We dined for lunch one day in the Rendezvous Room, which is adorned with numerous pieces of original art from the '20s and '30s. Here I enjoyed an excellent cup of smooth Cream of Tomato Soup, followed by an excellent Cobb Salad with smooth and creamy Blue Cheese Dressing, and a Grilled Swiss Cheese-Filled Reuben Sandwich on Rye accompanied by French Fries. I realized that I had over-ordered when the massive Reuben arrived at the same time as the entree salad. I could barely get my mouth around the stacked meat and cheese; and the Reuben and Fries grew cold before I got to them after finishing the whole salad. The Corned Beef in the Reuben was suitably lean. Aside from the double plate presentation, service was friendly and efficient. When lunch was completed, I walked out stuffed to the extreme, for I rarely leave ordered food to waste, no matter how much my eyes are bigger than my stomach! And this day was no exception. XXXX-1/2 stars overall for the Union League Club of Chicago as a whole! read more

5/5 stars based solely on my dining experience. I visited the Union League Club on a Wednesday afternoon for lunch. The buffet was tasty. The tomato soup, various salads and salmon wrapped in phyllo dough were all to my liking. Complimentary bread basket brought to each table was better than most. My group shared a plate of stale cookies for dessert, so that was completely underwhelming. Especially for a private club that's known for being upscale. I would have splurged on a more glamorous desert. Thankfully my guests were so full from their main meal that the bummer of a dessert didn't seem to bother them. Staff members were super friendly and the dining room is stunning. You can tell there's a lot of rich history in the building. The many works of art adorning the walls are something to behold. We were obviously able to get into the UL Club because I know someone who knows someone who knows...you get the idea. I thought I'd feel super intimidated upon walking in here, but thankfully that didn't happen. Mostly middle to senior citizen aged white men walking around. The UL Club seems to primarily employ men as well. At least in the dining room and main lobby area. A unique experience. read more

Union League Club - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Could this spot be any more elite?! I love it a thousand times. If you're into exclusive (private) clubs, the Union League is your spot. When I told my friend I wanted salad for lunch she said: "the League has a nice salad buffet." To be honest, I was not impressed at thought of a buffet lunch. The buffet isn't a meal that I eagerly jump towards. Being petite makes for a small appetite. While my friends are gobbling down rounds of plates piled high with salads, fish, meat, and dessert I'm usually stuffed on round one. That being said buffets are usually a waste of money since I never get the same fill that others do. Since I was in awe of my surroundings and it had been some time since I'd seen my friend, I took my time and actually had a second plate. The food isn't by any means world class, but it was tasty, had good flavor and left me satisfied. The UL has a reciprocal relationship with similar clubs throughout the country. My friends and I grew up dining at the Atheneum on the campus of CalTech, so I knew what to expect. Comparing the two, however, the Atheneum blows the UL out of the park by miles. Where the UL rebounds is in the overall facilities. It boasts a hotel, a library, men and women's gym, sauna, swimming pool, massage facilities, mani/pedi station and more. Guests can take a few morning laps in the pool, then have breakfast served poolside. Keep in mind it is an indoor pool, so if you're looking for a pool with a view this isn't the one. There are a number of dining rooms, among them are a steakhouse that includes a wine cellar. Several members store their personal collection in the UL vault. The formal dining area, where my friend and I dined, boasts an impressive art collection. As it turns, UL houses the largest collection of art outside of the Chicago museum. They partner with local organizations such as the Boys and Girls club to highlight and encourage arts with the youth. For the business folk, there is a fully equipped library with both classical literature and current best sellers. You could grab a book and spend a few hours here sitting on one of the wooden benches, under the lamps with the green shade. Classic. If you've got a meeting and do not have an office space, there are phone rooms you can use to handle your important business in private. At the end, my friend called upon the clubs driver to give me a lift back to my office. In a Mercedes Van. For free. I tipped. Great place, if I lived and worked in downtown Chicago I would look into membership. read more

I had my wedding at ULCC a couple weeks ago. The entire experience was incredible. Ken and his team were a dream to work with. So warm, helpful and easy-going. Their expertise made the whole experience less stressful and more magical. Our guests also stayed at the club in their guest rooms. From start to finish it was the perfect weekend. And a lot of the thanks is owed to the Union League Club and their staff. read more

My son and daughter in law's wedding was at the Union League. The venue is beautiful and classy and the food was delicious. They had surf and turf for the main course and it was phenomenal! The serving staff was attentive and professional. The celebration was simply awesome! read more

Everything was great here! Perfect location! Great accomodations! The Union League is classy and sophisticated! Nice size rooms, comfortable beds, robes, necessities (lotion, shampoo and conditioner which is a big plus for my hair). Was a little surprised there wasn't a fridge for my left over Italian Village, but whatever... Nice size pool. The women's changing area was amazing and had everything I needed and then some.Nail polish remover, make- up remover, Cliff bars etc. Whirlpool. First class all the way. Brunch was not bad either! read more

Union League Club - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

fantastic time with my book club friends at this elite club....we had lobster mac and cheese and flat bread for appetizers. I ordered chicken tacos for main course and the desserts very good. We had bread pudding, ginger crème brulee, apple something. Loved the art collection and enjoyed the very attentive service. read more

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Old world charm at its best. Certainly not for everyone but membership definitely has its privileges. It is a great place to enjoy a nice evening with friends both new and old. Or a great way to meet others who are similarly situated. Having visited/stayed at Union Leagues in other states, I would say there are two things that separate this one. The art collection and the chili! Both were extremely impressive. I could not bring myself to take pictures of their Monet or a few other beautiful pieces, but wanted to. Service in the dining area was quite memorable too. The servers are pretty much like family or old friends to its members. This makes for warm and personable dining experience. We stopped in to escape the St.Paddys Day parade and party crowd but a few still wanted "green" beer. Our server brought over a bottle of green food coloring so my dining companions could make their own. How's that for service? As with any private club, there are rules (Dress codes, mandatory coat check, etc), but the same could be said for invitation only receptions, plays, dinners, or events. read more

This Club has so many ways to be engaged that it has been the center of my social life since I joined 15 years ago. From attending wine tastings, author events, family Halloween parties, a New Years Eve Party that will blow your mind, meeting Supreme Court Justices and former Presidents, to being a Trustee on the Union League Boys & Girls Clubs (that supports over 15,000 Chicago kids), the ULC has provided so many ways to meet people from all backgrounds and expand my network. After COVID quarantining I knew I had to get back to the ULC and rejoin my life again. And it has not disappointed with a slew of new opportunities in 2021. read more

Stuffy Clean room Outdated policies (no jeans or what ever) Free internet Front desk deficit - upon check out, there was a line and no one behind the counter. After 10 minutes I decided to leave as I had plans. Never seen a hotel without front desk staff. read more

I have visited, and dined, at the Union League Club several times and every time has been a fantastic experience. While not a member myself, I know people... "...people highly invested in my [entertainment], and they are people who really know how to [entertain] in ways you can't even imagine." Anyway, yadda yadda yadda I've been to the Club a few times. Several times for meals, in both The Rendezvous Room and the Wigwam, and they have been wonderful: the service has been on point, friendly, and very accommodating, the atmosphere has been classy yet casual, and the food has been very tasty. And, several times, I have been there for an event and always had a wonderful time; the most recent was a bourbon tasting and it was a delight. The Club is old, a Chicago landmark, but it has aged very well; everyone I have interacted with, both staff and other members, have been superb; and the location, right in the Loop, can't be beat. Honestly, I have nothing but good things to say about the ULC and I can't wait to visit again. read more

The Union League is an old-fashioned club where you can imagine a bunch of bigwig rich guys sitting around on old leather couches and smoking cigars. I have been here for a couple of elegant receptions over the years. The service is so efficient, as the wait staff swoops down on empty plates and glasses. If you ever get invited, put on a nice outfit and live the high life for a few hours. read more

Union League Club - Union League Club - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Attended the French pastry school graduation here and of course it feels dated which makes it the Union League Club. Unlike many NYC clubs, Penn, Yale which have been upgrading slowly and quietly this place reserves and preserves it charm. Minus the chick artwork you can close your eyes, smell the cigars, hear the tinkling of glasses and hear jazzy piano tunes. read more

Union League Club - One of the lovely pieces of art at the club. - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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"Raindrops, drop tops Smokin' on cookie in the hotbox My bitch is bad and boujee Cookin' up dope with a Uzi" "Bad and Boujee" - Migos I've had the pleasure of attending four Bourbon and Boxing events and the song "Bad and Boujee" is what plays in my head over and over again for every second I'm there. The Union League Club features the second largest collection of art in Chicago and the largest collection of suits/C-level executives. The food has always been superb including great chops, appetizers, and always a nice dessert. The bar, located on the fourth floor, is a nice place to enjoy a few cocktails and tell tall tales with old friends. Granted, membership is required to enjoy all of these amazing amenities so use your network to your advantage so you can attend the club. Pro Tip - Start searching LinkedIn hard to see who can get you into the club. If you like feeling boujee then it's worth the awkward approach into the boss-who-you-never-talk-to's office and asking if he/she is a member. read more

I was just here for a few hours to grab a few drinks and watch the World Cup with some members of this club. But as much as it pains me to say it, it was really quite nice and almost made me want to join. The space is pretty and functional, with lots of different kinds of space for different purposes. The location is extraordinarily convenient for those who spend time downtown but don't have an office or apartment here. And the service was unusually good; our waiter was attentive, knew when to stay away and when to be helpful, and sometimes fulfilled our requests even before we thought of them. Now I'm not actually going to join -- but I can see why others do. read more

Stunningly beautiful, old world club that does it right whether you are a member or a guest. I have been here a number of times now, for a wedding, an authors signing, a reception, and each time I marvel at the beautiful old historic building with an art collection that rivals only the Chicago Institute of Arts. Built in the 1800's this building, has been part of the Chicago Financial District for over 130 years, first welcoming only men but more recently the women of Chicago to have a place to host meetings, dinners, enjoy the library, work out or even to swim in the Olympic sized pool which was revolutionary during the inception. I also like that this is one club, if you are a member, that has beautiful rooms that you can stay in for a reasonable rate if you need a place to stay in the city or to house guests. Perfect for this suburban girl who sometimes needs a place to lay her head! The members are terrific, making you feel at home and I love just talking to them as they come from all walks of life and businesses so it is a great place to network and to meet new people. And the staff go out of their way to learn your name, and get you anything that you might need to make your visit more enjoyable. Gotta love membership in a private club! Like any private club, there are dues and fees and you have to pass an interview process and be recommended for membership but that is to be expected. Those rates can be found on their website. I also like that they support three charities with the members dues as well. All in all, this piece of Chicago is rich in history and lore. Boy if those walls could talk I'm sure the stories they would tell would entrance us all! read more

Ok, my earlier critique was tough and i still stand by my comments. But i will also admit its much better and service has mostly improved significantly. The crusty bartender in the rendezvous still lacks a personality and doesn't recall he's providing a service. But let's move past this. The club is a wonderful experience and i enjoy using it often. Lunch in the Lincoln ball room is an exciting adventure back to yesteryear. The service is incredible and quality is always top notch. Love the salad bar Dining at the wigwam is classic charm. Love the wine list and menu. Great place to impress your client. Great place to go for lunch, dinner or drinks. read more

The Union League club is legit. We had a work function here and the facilities and service was second to none. It just feels like you're in a place of power. There's a conference room on the fifth floor that I ducked into for a call. The art work and millwork throughout the building is spectacular. Checked out the library on the 4th floor, the center piece is an elephant been hunted by two lions. I looked at it and though that it reminded me a lot of the real estate business. This place is amazing, check it out. read more

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I have been in many clubs across country and this stands out as one of the best for service and cuisine.

Wide variety of salads, cured meats and fresh seafood including raw oysters and crab claws from the cold salad bar. Simple yet sufficient menu for lunch. I heard the halibut was amazingly fresh and perfectly cooked. I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of the food for lunch. read more