A massive new hotel proposed for the east end of Navy Pier could break ground as soon as next month, according to a Chicago-based developer.
That developer, First Hospitality Group, is planning on breaking ground as soon as January of next year on the new hotel, which will feature 223 rooms and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the city of Chicago.
It is expected to be completed by the summer of 2019, according to the developers.
nSince its debut in 1996, the Christkindlmarket has designed a new souvenir mug each year for visitors to collect. This year's mug features the Chicago skyline depicted above the market's iconic wooden rooftops, with the Christkindlmarket logo displayed on the opposite side. Mugs can be purchased at the event with a hot beverage, or online for $5.
nFor the beer lovers in the family, these traditional German steins make for a unique gift that is both practical and visually appealing. Prior to their modern popularity, steins were created to meet German health standards for transporting beer when the Bubonic Plague was prominent in Europe.
nAlso known as a matryoshka doll, these traditional Russian toys come with multiple wooden dolls in decreasing size that stack up inside each other. The Gifts from Eastern Europe booth sells a variety of nesting dolls decorated with different holiday characters.
nAccording to legend, nutcrackers are considered good luck in German culture as they were once used to protect households. Modern nutcrackers like the ones sold at the Christkindlmarket typically depict holiday characters and clothing that make great holiday gifts.
nFill your home with the sweet scent of honey with a special honey candle hand-carved in a variety of shapes. More than just candles, the Bienes Honighaus booth sells all kinds of natural honey products including soaps, lotions and candies.
nThese intricate wooden clocks originate from a region of Southwest Germany known as the Black Forest, the same name as the booth that sells them at the Christkindlmarket. Each clock is carved in Germany and come with a certificate of authenticity.
nA myriad of booths feature German glass-blown ornaments that will sparkle on any Christmas tree. The stunning selection features everything from angels and snowmen to the sweeping Chicago skyline.
nYou'll find German hand-carved wood products all throughout the market, including these wooden lantern ornaments. The decoration is also hand-painted typically features a nativity scene around the outside.
nLight up the room with one of these colorful paper star lanterns from the Gift & Candle Palace booth directly across from the Washington Street entrance. The shop hails from Bad Oeynhausen, Germany and also offers a number of ceramic gifts portraying German homes and churches.
nHand-carved from a variety of vendors, wooden figurines are among the most popular gifts the Christkindlmarket offers. The decorations come in all shapes and sizes, making great gifts that can adorn your home all year long.
Renderings for the hotel, posted by Chicago architecture firm KOO LLC, show that the hotel would face south and would feature both balconies and large picture windows so that guests could enjoy views in all seasons.
According to Curbed Chicago, the hotel will feature a 30,000 square foot rooftop bar and a restaurant at promenade level.
The new hotel is part of a larger effort called “Centennial Vision,” which has included a new large Ferris Wheel and additions to several attractions, including the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre.
