When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Biggs Mansion Chicago
Why Biggs Mansion Chicago is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Biggs Mansion Chicago offers an unparalleled experience for cigar enthusiasts and those seeking a sophisticated social setting. Nestled in an iconic 19th-century mansion in the prestigious Gold Coast neighborhood, Biggs Mansion features over 14,000 square feet of cigar lounge space spread across three floors, including private rooms and member-only areas. The venue boasts elegant features such as crystal chandeliers, hardwood floors, fine leather furniture, wood-paneled wainscoting, and working fireplaces, creating a luxurious and comfortable atmosphere. With an extensive walk-in humidor stocked with esteemed cigar brands and the option to bring your own cigars, Biggs Mansion is a premier destination for both novices and aficionados. The outdoor patio extends the ambiance, providing a perfect spot for relaxation. The two-year, $4 million restoration preserved the mansion's historic charm while transforming it into Chicago's finest cigar lounge and retail store. Regular monthly events offer members and retail customers unique social and cultural experiences. Open Monday through Saturday from noon to midnight, and Sundays until 8 PM, Biggs Mansion combines tradition, elegance, and community to be a sought-after place to meet friends and enjoy a refined cigar experience.
Here's what people think of Biggs Mansion Chicago
As of recent, Biggs Mansion Chicago holds a 4.6-star rating based on 651 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise Biggs Mansion for its classy and refined environment, often highlighted by descriptions of its historic charm and luxurious decor such as crystal chandeliers and leather furnishings. Positive comments frequently mention the spacious and well-maintained lounges, the extensive selection of cigars, and the attentive, friendly staff who contribute to an inviting experience. Many reviewers appreciate the ability to bring their own cigars or purchase from the premium on-site humidor and enjoy the elegant ambiance reminiscent of a grand historic home. However, some negative feedback points out communication issues regarding policies, such as the lack of clarity about dress code (conflicting messages between no dress code and business casual), and practical details like the availability of lighters, matches, and whether drinks and snacks can be brought or provided. Some guests have noted that certain amenities, like lighters, are not offered proactively and must be requested, which could be improved for customer convenience. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus remains highly favorable, with the mansion celebrated as Chicago's finest cigar lounge and a premier social venue for cigar lovers seeking comfort and elegance.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Monet Gandy
Absolutely amazing Lounge! Being in the cigar industry myself I am very big on customer service. I must say Ulysses was Great! Kind, knowledgeable and I can’t wait to come back for another visit
A. Barson
Casual spot, relaxed retail lounge downstairs. Members area upstairs, didn't get to check it our, but pictures looked cool. Very helpful staff
A R
What a special place to have a cigar. I bought a day pass, and John, the GM, was gracious enough to give me a tour of the building and all of its spaces after I purchased some cigars. It is absolutely beautiful inside. John, along the members there tonight, were very nice and welcoming while I was having my cigars outside on the patio. I couldn't recommend this establishment highly enough. Having been to many cigar lounges across the country, Biggs is definitely one of the premiere lounges in the United States, making this place a must visit while in Chicago!
Kerry Buchanan
Firstly, I love this place. I've been coming for about the last 3 years (I took a one year break being out of the country) and I can't say enough positive things about my experience. The staff is amazing and SO knowledgeable about the brands and options that they have. They are also always restocking the tons of brands they have on hand in the huge humidor. Speaking of staff, Karen, Gabby, Britt, Josey, Ruben and crew are so welcoming. They` greet the members and non-member regulars by name and always engage and chat like we're all old friends. Karen, one of the staff started the first day that I was a member there, and she is the one that made my deciding factor to join. She toured me through the mansion, gave me a rundown of the benefits and introduced me to the rest of the staff on duty, all on her first day of work! She was very pleasant, friendly, and engaging every time I arrive. Apart from the vast cigar options,I highly recommend Biggs Mansion for the warm clientele of all walks, the incredibly friendly, pleasant, and welcoming staff, and for the great location near tons of great mature bars and restaurants. Bottom line: Go to this place. If cigars and atmosphere are your thing, you will love it there!
Matthew Tassinari
Love coming here whenever I’m in Chicago. Friendly staff that’s very helpful for novice cigar smokers like myself. Would recommend purchasing a day pass for upstairs access, 👌🏼👌🏼👌🏼
How to reach Biggs Mansion Chicago
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Why Biggs Mansion Chicago may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Biggs Mansion Chicago with your friends?
Biggs Mansion Chicago offers an unparalleled environment for gathering with friends that combines historic elegance, luxury, and a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere. This venue isn’t just a place to meet; it’s an experience in itself, housed in a meticulously restored 19th-century mansion once belonging to a prominent Chicago banker. The opulent setting boasts tiered chandeliers, Italian fireplaces, and intricate architectural details that evoke a timeless grandeur, making it a truly memorable backdrop for any group event. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a unique spot to catch up, the ambiance invites a blend of old-world charm and contemporary comfort, providing the perfect balance for camaraderie.
Beyond the aesthetics, Biggs Mansion is recognized as Chicago’s finest cigar lounge and shop, making it especially appealing if your group enjoys premium cigars. Its private and spacious layout encourages socializing in an environment dedicated to leisure and refinement. The mansion's outdoor patio further extends the gathering space, ideal for enjoying Chicago’s weather with friends in a stylish setting. The venue’s high rating, reflecting over 600 reviews, underscores consistent guest satisfaction, emphasizing quality service and atmosphere. Bringing your friends here means immersing yourselves in a rare blend of Chicago’s history, luxury, and a shared, relaxing cultural pastime.
What activities can you enjoy at Biggs Mansion Chicago?
Biggs Mansion presents a rich variety of activities perfectly suited for groups who appreciate sophistication mixed with relaxation. The centerpiece activity is the cigar experience itself—whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, the mansion provides access to one of the city’s finest selections of cigars. You can purchase premium cigars on-site or even bring your own with a day pass that grants access to exclusive upstairs lounges. These lounges, beautifully adorned to reflect the mansion’s historic roots, offer the perfect setting to savor cigars amid a classic ambiance. Enjoying cigars together fosters a social connection that is both leisurely and engaging.
Beyond cigars, the mansion offers several recreational options that lend themselves well to groups. It features a billiard room and poker room, perfect for spirited, friendly competition. Such games add a lively dimension to gatherings, providing natural conversation starters and group engagement. The outdoor patio is another highlight, offering an inviting open-air option where guests can mingle, relax, and enjoy fresh air away from the city bustle. The combination of indoor luxury and outdoor space makes the mansion versatile for various group sizes and moods, ensuring everyone finds their preferred way to unwind.
Why is Biggs Mansion Chicago ideal for a group meetup?
Biggs Mansion’s blend of privacy, historical charm, and tailored services makes it ideal for hosting group meetups. The mansion’s layout includes multiple floors with distinct areas, allowing groups to either congregate together or split into smaller clusters without losing the sense of exclusivity. This flexibility is often hard to find in typical urban venues. Moreover, the mansion’s policy of allowing a BYOB (bring your own bottle) with day passes for upstairs access truly caters to guests who want to personalize their experience, a significant perk for groups wanting to celebrate with their favorite drinks.
Additionally, the mansion balances exclusivity with accessibility, with day passes priced reasonably for downtown Chicago and open hours that accommodate various event timings. Staff on-site assist with setting up glassware and ice so groups can enjoy their beverages comfortably, adding a layer of convenience. Another crucial factor is the atmosphere; the mansion’s elegant décor and historic significance naturally elevate the social experience, helping groups feel they are part of something special and memorable. For those who value ambiance as much as activity, Biggs Mansion offers a blend that few venues can match.
How does Biggs Mansion Chicago cater to cigar lovers and novices alike?
Biggs Mansion is foremost a cigar emporium and lounge that caters expertly to both seasoned cigar enthusiasts and those new to the culture. The venue offers access to an impressive array of premium cigars for purchase, showcasing a wide range of options for different tastes and preferences. Purchasing a day pass allows cigar lovers to smoke in the upstairs lounge areas, which are defined by their stunning historical decor, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the cigar-smoking experience. This offering gives novices an opportunity to explore cigars in a welcoming, elegant environment where experts and beginners alike can appreciate the tradition.
For guests who do not bring their own cigars, the mansion’s staff are ready to assist in selecting sticks that suit different palates and moods. The lounge policy fosters a relaxed environment where guests can enjoy cigars while open to sharing advice and stories, making it an excellent social environment for learning and bonding over a shared interest. Even non-smokers are welcome to lounge on the first floor, where the ambiance remains refined without requiring participation in the cigar aspect, showing the mansion’s inclusiveness for all group members.
What should guests know about the venue and service at Biggs Mansion?
Guests should be aware that Biggs Mansion prides itself on a high standard of quality and service, though some recent reviews note variability in staff attitudes. Most visitors describe the staff as helpful, providing adequate assistance with cigar selections, drink setups, and access to the various rooms. The venue’s operating hours are generous, open daily from midday until late evening on most days, allowing groups to schedule meetups with considerable flexibility.
Importantly, the mansion’s facilities are maintained to complement its historic stature, including access to billiards and poker rooms, making it a holistic venue rather than a single-purpose lounge. While some discrepancies in guest experiences exist, the mansion’s reputation as a premier cigar lounge and event space remains strong. Guests are encouraged to call ahead and clarify any policies, especially regarding bringing outside drinks or glassware, ensuring their group’s visit goes smoothly. Attention to these details enhances an already exceptional visit.
How does Biggs Mansion Chicago compare to other venues for social events?
In comparison to more conventional venues like bars or event halls, Biggs Mansion stands out due to its combination of luxury, history, and a niche cultural focus on cigars. It offers a unique specialty that resonates particularly with groups interested in a sophisticated and somewhat exclusive social atmosphere. Unlike typical city lounges, the mansion’s restoration and historic architecture provide an ambiance that elevates any event from routine to memorable. The diverse spaces—enclosed lounges, game rooms, and outdoor patio—also lend flexibility in how a group may want to structure their gathering.
Many venues in downtown Chicago may offer modern aesthetics and typical party experiences, but Biggs Mansion’s dedication to its cigar culture niche and its luxurious setting appeals to a certain clientele looking for depth and tradition in their social outings. With a consistent high rating and strong word of mouth, it has earned a reputation not just as a place to smoke cigars but as a complete venue where people come together to enjoy culture, leisure, and friendship in a refined environment. For anyone seeking something beyond the ordinary, Biggs Mansion is a top choice.
What are the practical details to know before visiting Biggs Mansion Chicago?
Before organizing a meetup at Biggs Mansion, knowing the practical details ensures a seamless experience. The mansion is located centrally in Chicago at 1150 N Dearborn Street, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city. Opening hours run from noon to midnight Monday through Saturday, and noon to 8 p.m. on Sundays, accommodating both daytime and evening events. Group organizers should consider contacting the venue in advance to confirm pricing for day passes and inquire about any special requests such as drink service or private room access.
The mansion has a policy that allows guests to bring their own cigars and sometimes beverages, but these details are best clarified ahead of time, especially for larger groups. Reservations or inquiries about customized event pricing can be made through direct communication with their staff. Additionally, the presence of staff who can assist with glassware and ice setup enhances the convenience of hosting here. Overall, these practical considerations complement the mansion’s luxurious offerings, making Biggs Mansion a well-prepared venue for hosting gatherings.
How does the history of Biggs Mansion enrich the experience?
The historical legacy of Biggs Mansion enriches every visit, instilling a sense of place and tradition rarely found in modern venues. Originally built for John DeKoven, a prominent banker in Chicago, the mansion was designed by Edward Burling, a major architect whose work includes other historic Chicago landmarks. The restoration completed in 2014 revitalized the mansion’s grandeur—ornate décor such as Italian fireplaces and tiered chandeliers evoke the elegance and opulence of late 19th-century high society. This heritage atmosphere deeply contrasts with the fast-paced, often impersonal social venues common today, allowing guests to feel connected to Chicago’s cultural and architectural past.
This profound sense of history adds a layer of depth and authenticity to any meetup. The mansion’s transformation into one of Chicago’s finest cigar lounges preserves this legacy while providing a modern social experience rooted in tradition. Thus, visiting Biggs Mansion is not just meeting at another venue; it is stepping into a living piece of Chicago’s societal history, making gatherings here more meaningful and distinctive. For friends and families seeking a venue with character and soul, the mansion’s historic background is a significant draw.