BookResorts™ is an independent travel network offering over 100,000 hotels worldwide.is an independent travel network.

The Drake Chicago, Illinois
Book Now Or call, 24/7+1 (888) 605-1350
Rooms & Suites Dine & Drink Activities Gallery FAQs
Ready to book?Lowest online rate, free perks and upgrades.Book nowCall 24/7 · 888-605-1350
Hotel comparison guide

The Drake vs InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile

The Drake is a historic 4-star Gold Coast landmark at the northern end of the Magnificent Mile, with lake views, classic afternoon tea, and event spaces—good for travelers who want old‑school Chicago and easy beach access. InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile is a large, upscale 4.5-star hotel on Michigan Avenue with extensive meeting space, an indoor pool, and on-site spa services—best for shoppers, meetings, and guests who want a full-service city hotel.

Updated · about 0.8 km apart

Spacious grand lobby at The Drake with central fountain and floral sculpture

The Drake

Historic · Lakefront · Afternoon tea

Best for travelers who want a classic Chicago landmark with direct access to Oak Street Beach and a historic dining/bar scene.

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, Chicago, Illinois

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile

Large · Michigan Avenue · Indoor pool & spa

Best for guests who want a large, full-service downtown hotel with an indoor pool, an on-site spa, and extensive meeting facilities.

Quick Verdict: The Drake vs InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile

When The Drake wins: choose The Drake if you value a smaller, storied hotel on the lakefront, historic venues (Palm Court afternoon tea, Coq d'Or), and immediate access to Oak Street Beach and the northern Magnificent Mile.

When InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile wins: pick the InterContinental if you need a larger hotel with more rooms, an indoor pool and spa services on site, or lots of meeting and event rooms near the center of Michigan Avenue.

Bottom line: both are historic, well‑located Magnificent Mile hotels. Pick The Drake for character and lakefront proximity; pick the InterContinental for scale, on-site wellness & pool facilities, and convention/event capacity.

The Drake vs InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile – At a Glance

Side-by-side facts for The Drake and InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile
CategoryThe DrakeInterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile
Overall vibeHistoric, classic Gold Coast landmarkLarge, polished full-service city hotel
Location (Magnificent Mile)Anchors northern Magnificent Mile; across from Oak Street BeachDirectly on Michigan Avenue, central on the Mile
Size (rooms)535 guestrooms + 74 suites792 guestrooms
Historic / ageOpened 1920; long-standing landmarkLong-standing downtown property (modernized)
PoolsNo on-site poolIndoor pool on site
Spa & wellnessNo dedicated on-site spa; in-room massages available; 24-hour fitness centerSpa services on site, sauna, fitness facilities
Restaurants & barsCoq d'Or bar, Palm Court afternoon tea, Cafe on OakCenter Court restaurant, 1 bar/lounge, coffee shop/cafe
Meeting & event space21 event rooms, 2 ballrooms, large historic ballrooms (Gold Coast Room, Grand Ballroom)34 meeting rooms and banquet/ballroom spaces
Known forPalm Court afternoon tea; historic bar Coq d'Or; lake and beach accessCentral Michigan Avenue location, large meeting facilities, indoor pool & spa services

Location: The Drake vs InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile

The Drake – Location

The Drake sits at 140 E Walton Place at the north end of the Magnificent Mile, facing Lake Michigan and Oak Street Beach.

  • Directly across the street from Oak Street Beach (about a 3–5 minute walk).
  • Immediate access to the Lakefront Trail and nearby shops on the northern Magnificent Mile.
  • Close to 360 CHICAGO and Water Tower Place; quieter Gold Coast neighborhood vibe just off the main drag.

Choose The Drake for the closest hotel access to Oak Street Beach and a lakefront setting.

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile – Location

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile is at 505 N Michigan Ave, sitting directly on Michigan Avenue near major shops and attractions.

  • Central Michigan Avenue location—steps from shops, restaurants, and the Chicago Riverwalk.
  • Within walking distance of Grant Park, Millennium Park, and cultural sites listed in the supplier highlights.
  • Easier walk to the Mile’s midsection attractions and transit connections for downtown sightseeing.

Choose InterContinental for a central Michigan Avenue address and easy access to the main shopping corridor.

Rooms: historic suites vs large inventory

The Drake – Rooms

The Drake offers individually furnished rooms and a selection of suites that emphasize historic character and lake views.

  • 535 guest rooms and 74 suites, including named suites such as the Princess Diana Suite and lake-view suites.
  • Room types include Room, Lake View and multiple suite categories (Studio Suite, Presidential Suite, etc.).
  • In-room amenities include premium bedding and laptop‑compatible safes; WiFi is available for a surcharge (complimentary for some loyalty members).

The Drake’s rooms focus on character, individual furnishings, and lake-facing options.

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile – Rooms

InterContinental has a large inventory of room types across multiple towers, including executive and suite categories.

  • 792 guestrooms across Classic, Executive, Premium and numerous suite types (e.g., Suite, 1 Bedroom (Grand Tower), Premier Suite).
  • Accessible room options listed (mobility accessible, roll-in shower, accessible tub variants).
  • Standard modern hotel room amenities and complimentary WiFi are included.

InterContinental offers breadth of room types and many accessible configurations for larger groups.

Dining & drinks: tea and classic bar vs full-service outlets

The Drake – Dining & drinks

The Drake’s food & drink offerings emphasize historic venues and lakefront breakfast.

  • Palm Court: celebrated afternoon tea served Friday–Sunday (reservations recommended).
  • Coq d'Or: historic American bar serving cocktails and elevated fare (no reservations required).
  • Cafe on Oak: breakfast nook overlooking Lake Michigan; breakfast available for an additional fee.

The Drake is for guests who want iconic Chicago dining moments (tea, a historic bar) and lakefront breakfast.

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile – Dining & drinks

InterContinental provides multiple on-site dining options and a bar/lounge aimed at convenience for guests and events.

  • Center Court is one of the hotel’s restaurants serving American cuisine and room service during limited hours.
  • Coffee shop/cafe and one bar/lounge provide grab-and-go and casual options.
  • Buffet breakfast is offered for a surcharge during specific hours on weekdays and weekends.

InterContinental suits guests who want on-site full-service dining and convenient daytime outlets for meetings and events.

Pools & signature amenity: lakefront access vs indoor pool

The Drake – Pools & signature amenity

The Drake’s signature access is its proximity to Lake Michigan and Oak Street Beach rather than an on-site pool.

  • No on-site swimming pool—closest water access is Oak Street Beach across the street.
  • Lakefront views and easy access to the Lakefront Trail for walking, jogging, and biking.
  • Beach access and lake activities are seasonal and public rather than hotel-run facilities.

If a hotel pool matters, The Drake does not have one; it offers direct lakefront/beach access instead.

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile – Pools & signature amenity

InterContinental lists an indoor pool and sauna among its recreational amenities.

  • Indoor pool available on site (supplier listing).
  • Sauna and fitness facilities complement the pool area.
  • Spa services and body treatments are offered on property for additional fees.

InterContinental is the better option for travelers wanting on-site pool and spa facilities.

Wellness, nightlife & meetings

The Drake – Wellness, nightlife & meetings

The Drake focuses on a classic hotel experience with historic event spaces and a 24-hour fitness center.

  • 24-hour fitness center with cardio machines, free weights, and yoga/stretching areas.
  • Extensive historic event spaces: Gold Coast Room, Grand Ballroom, French Room and Camellia Room for weddings and meetings.
  • Nightlife revolves around Coq d'Or and Palm Court rather than a large-scale bar scene.

Choose The Drake for historic event venues, a 24-hour gym, and a quieter evening scene rooted in hotel tradition.

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile – Wellness, nightlife & meetings

InterContinental emphasizes larger meeting capacity and on-site wellness offerings.

  • 34 meeting rooms available, with banquet halls and reception space for events.
  • On-site spa services, sauna, and fitness facilities for guest wellness.
  • A single bar/lounge and cafe provide casual evening and daytime options; larger off-site nightlife is a short walk away.

InterContinental is aimed at meeting planners and guests who want on-site wellness plus extensive event space.

Who Wins? Best Pick by Travel Style

Best for lake/beach access
Ornate hotel lobby corridor at The Drake with chandelier and patterned carpet

The Drake

The Drake — immediate access to Oak Street Beach and lakefront views.

Best for meetings & events
InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, Chicago, Illinois

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile

InterContinental — more meeting rooms (34) and a larger overall room inventory for group blocks.

Best for on-site pool & spa
InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, Chicago, Illinois

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile

InterContinental — indoor pool, sauna, and spa services on site.

Best for historic dining & local character
Staircase decorated for the holidays at The Drake flanked by toy soldier figures

The Drake

The Drake — Palm Court afternoon tea and the historic Coq d'Or bar provide landmark dining experiences.

Frequently asked questions

The Drake vs InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile: FAQs

See all FAQs →
Which hotel is closer to Oak Street Beach?

The Drake is directly across the street from Oak Street Beach (about a 3–5 minute walk).

Does The Drake have a pool?

No — The Drake does not have an on-site swimming pool; the InterContinental does have an indoor pool.

Which hotel is better for business meetings and conventions?

InterContinental has more meeting rooms (34) and a larger total room inventory, making it easier for larger group blocks; The Drake has notable historic ballrooms for weddings and mid-size events.

Are either of these hotels adults-only?

No — both properties allow guests of all ages. Standard check-in age policies (21+ for the reservation holder) apply at each property where noted.

Panoramic shoreline and lake view with beach and treed park at The Drake
Book your stay

Bed & Breakfast Package Available

  • Lowest rate guarantee
  • Complimentary perks & upgrades
  • 24/7 concierge
Offer terms

Price comparison & offer terms

These terms apply to the price comparison, Lowest Price Guarantee, free perks and concierge service shown on this site.

How we compare rates

The nightly rate shown is the lowest nightly rate we found for The Drake after searching every available night up to 12 months in advance, based on single occupancy (one guest). We compared that rate with publicly available rates on other online travel agencies (OTAs), such as Expedia, Hotels.com and similar sites, and show the price difference we found. We don't name the specific site each comparison came from.

Rates and availability change constantly. The rate for your dates, room type and number of guests may be different. The full price, including taxes and fees, is shown before you confirm.

Lowest Price Guarantee

Free perks & upgrades

24/7 concierge

General

BookResorts may change or end these offers at any time. These terms are in addition to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not affiliated with The Drake.

Legal

Terms & Conditions

Last updated: January 1, 2026

Please read these Terms carefully. They contain important information about limitations of our liability and the resolution of disputes through binding arbitration and a class action waiver (Section 16), and our right to change these Terms (Section 18).

1. Acceptance of these terms

These Terms & Conditions (the “Terms”) govern your access to and use of BookResorts and any booking you make through us. By using the site or making a reservation, you agree to these Terms. If you do not agree, please do not use the site.

2. Definitions

“We,” “us,” and “our” refer to BookResorts, operated by SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. “You” refers to the person using the site or making a reservation. A “Supplier” or “Travel Provider” is the hotel, resort, or other provider that supplies the travel services. “Travel Services” means the room stays and related services made available through us. “Content” means text, descriptions, images, reviews, and other material on the site.

3. Who we are

BookResorts is an independent online travel agency that acts as an intermediary between you and Suppliers. We are not a hotel, and we are not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any hotel or brand featured on the site. When you book, your reservation is made with the Supplier through us as agent.

4. Eligibility & use of the site

You must be at least 18 years old (or the age of majority where you live) and able to enter a binding contract. You agree to use the site only to make legitimate reservations for yourself or for someone you are authorized to act for, to provide accurate and complete information, and to inform any other traveler of the terms that apply to their reservation.

5. Bookings & confirmation

All reservations are subject to availability and to the rate rules, restrictions, and policies shown at the time of booking. A reservation is confirmed only when you receive a confirmation from us. You are responsible for reviewing the rate rules (including cancellation terms) before you book.

6. Prices, fees, taxes & currency

Prices are shown in the currency indicated and include applicable taxes and fees unless stated otherwise; the total is displayed before you confirm. Our price may include a service fee and may differ from the rate offered directly by the Supplier. Currency conversions, where shown, are estimates. Certain taxes or resort fees may be collected by the Supplier at the property.

7. Cancellations, changes & refunds

Each rate carries its own cancellation policy, shown before you book (for example, non-refundable, or refundable up to a stated deadline). Refund eligibility and timing follow the policy attached to the rate you select. Service fees may be non-refundable. Failure to check in (“no-show”) may result in forfeiture of the amount paid, per the rate rules.

8. Your responsibilities

You are responsible for having valid identification and any required travel documents (such as a passport or visa), and for complying with the Supplier’s policies, including minimum check-in age, occupancy limits, deposits, and identification requirements. You are responsible for the accuracy of all guest information you provide.

9. Suppliers & third-party services

Suppliers are independent third parties. We are not liable for the acts, errors, omissions, representations, warranties, or negligence of any Supplier, or for the quality, condition, or safety of the travel services they provide. Any dispute regarding your stay or the services delivered is between you and the Supplier. Supplier terms and policies apply in addition to these Terms.

10. Third-party links

The site may contain links to third-party websites provided for your convenience. We do not control and are not responsible for those sites, and a link does not imply endorsement. Your use of any linked site is at your own risk and subject to that site’s terms.

11. Intellectual property

The site and its Content (excluding third-party trademarks) are owned by BookResorts or its licensors and are protected by law. Hotel names, logos, and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used only to identify the property being booked. You may not copy, scrape, or reuse any Content without permission.

12. Prohibited conduct

You agree not to use the site for any unlawful or fraudulent purpose; not to make speculative, false, or fraudulent reservations; not to use automated tools to access or scrape the site; and not to interfere with the site’s operation or security.

13. Reviews & user content

If you submit reviews or other content, you grant us a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, display, and distribute it in connection with our services. You are responsible for what you submit, and we may remove content at our discretion.

14. Disclaimers

The site, its Content, and the travel services are provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis, without warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, including as to accuracy, availability, or fitness for a particular purpose. We do not warrant that listings, prices, or descriptions are error-free.

15. Limitation of liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, BookResorts will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, punitive, or consequential damages arising out of or connected with your use of the site or any booking. If we are found liable, our total liability will not exceed the greater of (a) the fees you paid to BookResorts for the booking at issue, or (b) US$100. This limitation reflects the allocation of risk between us.

16. Dispute resolution

We want to resolve any concern quickly and fairly. Before pursuing a formal claim, you agree to first contact our support team at 888-605-1350 or support@bookresorts.com and give us 60 days to resolve the matter informally. If we are unable to resolve it, any dispute will be handled by the state or federal courts located in California, as set out in Section 17 (either party may still bring qualifying claims in small claims court).

17. Governing law & venue

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of California, USA, without regard to conflict-of-laws rules. Any permitted court action will be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts located in Los Angeles County, California, and you consent to their jurisdiction.

18. Changes to these terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. The version in effect at the time of your booking applies to that booking. Your continued use of the site after changes take effect means you accept the updated Terms.

19. Force majeure

We are not responsible for any failure or delay caused by events beyond our reasonable control, including severe weather, natural disasters, pandemics, strikes, government actions, or Supplier closures.

20. Miscellaneous

If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions stay in effect. Our failure to enforce a provision is not a waiver. These Terms are the entire agreement between you and us regarding the site.

21. Contact

Questions about these Terms or a reservation? Call our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350.

Legal

Privacy Policy

Last updated: January 1, 2026

This Privacy Policy explains how BookResorts collects, uses, shares, and protects your personal information when you use our site or make a booking. For the purposes of applicable data protection law, the data controller is SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. (operating as BookResorts).

1. Information you provide

When you search, book, or contact us, we collect information such as your name, email, phone number, billing and payment details, the names and details of other guests, your travel dates and preferences, and the content of your communications with us.

2. Information we collect automatically

When you use the site, we automatically collect technical and usage data such as your device and browser type, IP address, approximate location, pages viewed, referring URLs, and interactions with the site, using cookies and similar technologies.

3. Information from other sources

We may receive information about you from Suppliers, business partners, fraud-prevention services, and (if you choose to connect one) social media platforms.

4. How we use your information

We use your information to process and manage bookings; communicate with you about reservations; provide customer support; personalize your experience; send marketing where permitted (with the ability to opt out); analyze and improve the site; prevent fraud and secure our services; and comply with legal obligations.

5. How we share your information

To complete a booking, we share necessary details with the relevant hotel and room Suppliers and with payment processors. We may also share information with service providers who support our operations, with advertising and analytics partners, with our corporate affiliates, in connection with a business transfer, with authorities where required by law, and with your consent.

6. Cookies & tracking

We use essential, performance, functional, and advertising cookies and similar technologies. You can manage non-essential cookies through your browser and through our cookie settings. For more detail, see our Cookie Policy.

7. Your privacy rights

Depending on where you live, you may have the right to access, correct, delete, or restrict the use of your personal information, to data portability, and to opt out of marketing.

EEA/UK (GDPR): You may access, rectify, erase, restrict, or object to processing of your data, withdraw consent, and lodge a complaint with your local supervisory authority. We process data based on your consent, the performance of a contract, our legitimate interests, and legal obligations.

California (CCPA/CPRA): You may request to know, delete, or correct your personal information, and limit the use of sensitive personal information, without discrimination. We do not sell or share your personal information as those terms are defined under California law, so no opt-out is necessary. To exercise any of your rights, contact us at support@bookresorts.com; we verify requests before responding.

8. Data retention

We keep personal information for as long as needed to provide our services and to meet legal, tax, accounting, and dispute-resolution obligations.

9. Security

We use reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your information. However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

10. International transfers

Your information may be processed in countries other than where you live. Where required, we put appropriate safeguards in place (such as standard contractual clauses) for those transfers.

11. Children’s privacy

The site is intended for adults and is not directed to children. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18 without appropriate consent.

12. Third-party links & social features

The site may contain links to, or features from, third-party services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those third parties; please review their policies.

13. Changes to this policy

We may update this policy from time to time. The “last updated” date above reflects the current version, and we will provide notice of material changes where required.

14. Contact us

Questions or privacy requests? Reach our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350 or by email at support@bookresorts.com.

About BookResorts · Independent since 1993

A better way to book your hotel

BookResorts is a full-service, independent travel agency connecting travelers to unforgettable stays since 1993. Detailed hotel information, competitive all-in rates and 24/7 concierge support, all in one place.

Est. 199330+ years
100K+Hotels & resorts
200+Countries
24/7Concierge
This is not the official website of The Drake. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by The Drake or its parent brand.

Why travelers choose BookResorts

Best available rates

We compare rates from top suppliers. Taxes and fees included, no hidden charges.

100,000+ hotels & resorts

200+ countries and 2,000+ cities, from all-inclusives to boutique stays.

24/7 concierge

Real travel specialists to build, change or help with your reservation anytime.

Full transparency

Honest details on every property: rooms, amenities and policies.

Trusted since 1993

Three decades as a full-service, independent travel agency.

Secure & protected

Every booking is handled securely and your information is protected.

How booking with us works

Questions about a reservation? Our team is here 24/7 at 888-605-1350.
Full details in our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Lowest Price + Free Perks

UsOthers
Nightly rate
Price guarantee✓
No hidden fees✓
Perks & upgrades✓
24/7 concierge✓
Check availability

vs. sites like Expedia, Hotels.com and other OTAs ·

Book by phone888-605-1350
Book nowLowest rates Call usAvailable 24/7
Photo viewer