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The Gwen, in the 1929 Art Deco McGraw-Hill Building off the Magnificent Mile

The Gwen (McGraw-Hill Building)

An Art Deco McGraw-Hill landmark with sculpted facades —
plus rooftop glamping and winter curling above the Mag Mile.

McGraw-Hill Building1929Art Deco 521 N. Rush Street, off the Magnificent Mile

The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago. McGraw-Hill Building, 1929, Thielbar & Fugard, 521 N. Rush Street. Photo courtesy of The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago.

The lobby of The Gwen
The lobby of The Gwen. Photo courtesy of The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago.
A guest room
A guest room. Photo courtesy of The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago.

Why this building matters

The hotel occupies the former McGraw-Hill Building, a 1929 Art Deco work whose limestone facade carries bold figural reliefs by the pioneering sculptor Gwen Lux — for whom the hotel is named. Restored and opened as a Luxury Collection hotel, it pairs that Jazz-Age artistry with a sleek contemporary interior and a popular rooftop.

Read more on The Gwen's own history page → (booking directly with the hotel doesn't generate a referral fee that supports our preservation work — the button at right does)

What guests are saying

What guests love

  • Genuine Art Deco artistry — the Gwen Lux facade reliefs are a highlight.
  • A coveted address half a block off Michigan Avenue, amid the Mag Mile’s best shopping.
  • A stylish rooftop and refined, full-service luxury.

What to keep in mind

  • A historic tower — rooms vary
  • Among the higher-priced Mag Mile stays

Best for Design lovers who want Art Deco character and full-service luxury steps from Michigan Avenue.

Summary of guest reviews. Sources: The Gwen Hotel, Commission on Chicago Landmarks, Preservation Chicago. Photography courtesy of The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago, used with permission. Details may change over time.