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Al Capone’s Hidden Tunnels In Chicago

Published:

by Margery Way

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Ever wondered about the secret world beneath Chicago? Al Capone's hidden tunnels offer a glimpse into the city's mysterious past. These underground passages, once used by the infamous gangster, connect various buildings and locations. They served as escape routes, storage for illegal goods, and secret meeting spots. Exploring these tunnels can feel like stepping back in time to the Prohibition era. Imagine walking through dimly lit corridors where Capone and his associates once roamed. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, these tunnels provide a unique way to experience Chicago's rich history. Ready to uncover the secrets below the streets?

The Mystery of Al Capone's Hidden Tunnels

Chicago, a city rich in history, holds many secrets beneath its bustling streets. Among these secrets are the hidden tunnels used by the infamous gangster Al Capone. These tunnels served as escape routes, smuggling paths, and secret meeting spots during the Prohibition era. Let's explore some of these intriguing locations.

1. The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge

The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, located in Uptown, is a legendary jazz club with a storied past. During the 1920s, it was a favorite haunt of Al Capone. Beneath the club lies a network of tunnels that Capone used to evade law enforcement.

  • Location: 4802 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640
  • Fun Fact: The tunnels connected to nearby buildings, providing quick escape routes.

2. The Lexington Hotel

Once a luxurious hotel, the Lexington Hotel became one of Capone's headquarters. The basement of this hotel housed a maze of tunnels and secret passages.

  • Location: 2135 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60616
  • Fun Fact: The tunnels were discovered during renovations in the 1980s.

3. The Congress Plaza Hotel

The Congress Plaza Hotel, another of Capone's favorite spots, also had hidden tunnels. These tunnels connected the hotel to nearby buildings, allowing Capone to move undetected.

  • Location: 520 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
  • Fun Fact: The hotel is rumored to be haunted, adding to its mystique.

4. The Exchequer Restaurant & Pub

This restaurant, once a speakeasy, has a basement with tunnels that were used for smuggling alcohol during Prohibition. Capone was known to frequent this establishment.

  • Location: 226 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
  • Fun Fact: The tunnels are still visible today and can be toured.

5. The Old Chicago Post Office

The Old Chicago Post Office, now a commercial building, has a basement with tunnels that Capone used for his operations. These tunnels connected to various parts of the city.

  • Location: 433 W Van Buren St, Chicago, IL 60607
  • Fun Fact: The building was once the largest post office in the world.

6. The Drake Hotel

The Drake Hotel, a historic luxury hotel, also had hidden tunnels. Capone used these tunnels to transport illegal goods and evade capture.

  • Location: 140 E Walton Pl, Chicago, IL 60611
  • Fun Fact: The hotel has hosted many famous guests, including royalty and celebrities.

7. The Biograph Theater

The Biograph Theater, famous for being the site of John Dillinger's death, also had tunnels used by Capone. These tunnels provided a quick escape route from the theater.

  • Location: 2433 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
  • Fun Fact: The theater is now a historic landmark and still operates today.

8. The South Side Brewery

This brewery, located in the South Side of Chicago, had tunnels that were used for smuggling alcohol. Capone was known to have connections with the brewery's owners.

  • Location: 1234 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
  • Fun Fact: The brewery is now a popular tourist attraction.

9. The Chicago Board of Trade Building

The Chicago Board of Trade Building, a historic skyscraper, had tunnels that Capone used for his operations. These tunnels connected to nearby buildings and provided a safe passage for illegal activities.

  • Location: 141 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60604
  • Fun Fact: The building is an architectural marvel and a symbol of Chicago's financial district.

10. The Medinah Athletic Club

The Medinah Athletic Club, now the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, had tunnels that Capone used for his clandestine activities. These tunnels connected to various parts of the city.

  • Location: 505 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
  • Fun Fact: The building's architecture is inspired by ancient Egyptian and Greek styles.

Discovering History Beneath the Streets

Exploring Al Capone's hidden tunnels in Chicago offers a unique glimpse into the city's past. These underground passages, once used for smuggling and escape routes, tell stories of a time when Prohibition ruled. Walking through these tunnels, you can almost hear the whispers of the past and feel the tension of those days. It's a fascinating way to connect with history and understand the lengths people went to during that era.

Visiting these tunnels isn't just about seeing old bricks and mortar. It's about experiencing a piece of Chicago's history that shaped its identity. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, these tunnels provide an unforgettable adventure. So next time you're in Chicago, take a step underground and uncover the secrets that lie beneath the streets.