2000s

The long, strange trip of Gary Kimmel.

The former House of Blues Hotel at Marina City is relaunched as Hotel Sax Chicago after a $17 million renovation, embracing its musical heritage while maintaining a strategic partnership with HOB.

Cinematic history repeated itself when another car was launched from the parking ramp into the Chicago River.

It was a gutsy move, Marina Towers Condominium Association passing a rule claiming control over the use of the iconic Marina City name and image. The decision was promptly ridiculed by residents and architecture enthusiasts.

The arrival of Dick’s Last Resort at Marina City sparked a debate over architectural integrity, launching a push for official landmark status.

Eventually, Marina City was designated an official City of Chicago landmark, but it took eight years.

There were so many questions about the man in the loud suits who danced on Chicago River bridges for the amusement of people on tour boats.

Once the world’s tallest reinforced concrete structure, Marina City faces continuous maintenance issues, costing millions over the years. From balcony repairs to waterproofing solutions, the iconic towers are under constant renovation.

Marina City has seen, at a minimum, its fair share of disputes.

Marina City has always inspired artistic expression but in 2008 and 2009, it was on an inspirational streak.

In a shocking incident following a Hanson concert in 2009, Brittney Hernandez was assaulted by a House of Blues security officer, inspiring legal action and significant changes to the venue’s security protocols.