The historic Hotel Baker is a charming and glamorous hotel with a history of the paranormal. According to local legends, a chambermaid who was employed at the hotel drowned herself in the Fox River when she was jilted by her lover on the altar.  Another version of the story says that the maid’s lover was also an employee of the hotel and that he left her after a night of poker. The chambermaids’ quarters were originally located on the 6th floor and it has been converted into a penthouse suite. Guests who have checked in the 6th-floor penthouse have reported hearing strange voices and having their bedding pulled by an unseen force.

History

The historic Hotel Baker is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been in and out of business since 1928. In 1926, Col. Baker envisioned a hotel that was luxurious and would give people an escape or relaxation. The hotel was built on the site of an old mill which was destroyed by fire in 1991. The hotel was built with an operating hydroelectric facility, a modern phone system, a parking garage, a radio station, and a rose garden. However, the garage was demolished in the 1970s.

The hotel was finally opened to the public on June 2, 1928, and rooms back then only cost $2.50 per night. The fifth floor of the hotel was reserved as luxurious apartments with open patios. The most famous feature of the hotel was the Rainbow Room, a room which was originally the hotel’s ballroom and restaurant. Famous personalities such as Guy Lombardo, Eddie Duchin, Louis Armstrong, and Lawrence Welkhave danced on the hotel’s ballroom.

About

People planning a weekend getaway, a conference, a party, a banquet or a wedding can be assured that they would have all of their needs met when coming to the Hotel Baker. The hotel’s banquet facilities can accommodate groups as small as 10 and as large as 300 people. The hotel’s charming rose garden and outdoor patio dining make a memorable setting for weddings and other parties. Guests and celebrants can be assured that everything they want will be done with the highest level of service and attention to detail.

Hotel Baker has 53 guest rooms which are tastefully furnished. Each of the rooms has marble-accented baths, plush carpeting, individual climate controls, and custom draperies. Most of the furnishings found in the hotel were the same original pieces used on the hotel in 1928. Guests who want a satisfying meal will find themselves satisfied when going to Rox City Grill. The sleek and elegant dining destination offers incomparable creations from Chef David Hassan. The hotel is open nightly and offers live entertainment from Thursday to Saturday.

Features

  • Cable television
  • Coffee maker
  • Phone with 2 lines
  • Data ports
  • Complimentary newspaper
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Concierge service
  • Fitness center
  • Complimentary deluxe continental breakfast
  • Laundry and dry cleaning service

Things to Do

Regardless of what month you choose to visit St. Charles, you will find a wide variety of attractions which are waiting to be explored. People who love the outdoors and recreational activities such as golfing and swimming can go to the Fox River, Landings Golf Course or Pottawatomie Park. Those who would take in the splendor of the river can join the Paddlewheel Riverboat Cruise. Those who want to relax can bring the entire family to watch a baseball game of the Kane County Cougars.

The Arcada Theatre is a 1926 Vaudeville theatre that has been hosting films, concerts and other special events. The Durant House Museum has been restored to resemble the original 1843 prairie house. There are also costumed interpreters to demonstrate to guests mid-19th-century farm life. Those who would want to go to gamble can try the Hollywood Casino in Aurora or the Grand Victoria Casino in Elgin.

Room Tariffs

  • Standard king rooms start at $190
  • One bedroom plus parlors start at $230
  • River king rooms start at $209

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