The Grand Ballroom, situated at 6351 S. Cottage Grove Avenue in Chicago’s historic Woodlawn neighborhood, is a stunning example of 1920s Renaissance Revival architecture. Designed by Loewenberg & Loewenberg and completed in 1923 as the Cinderella Ballroom, the two‑story terracotta‑clad building originally concealed storefronts and a beauty parlor beneath a large dance hall above. Over time it took on various names—including Granada and Music Box—before acquiring its current identity in the early 1950s

Step inside and you’re greeted by historic flourishes: a 6,500 sq ft dance floor beneath soaring arched windows, a 60‑foot oak bar, and a scallop‑shell stage styled as Cinderella’s carriage ([chicagocrusader.com][3]). Fairy‑tale motifs like pumpkins and glass slippers embellish the interior, weaving a playful nod to its original theme. The building’s elegant façade is topped with ornate stone moldings and repetitive arches—giving life to its Renaissance-inspired design

Throughout its century‑long history, the Grand Ballroom has hosted legendary jazz, swing, and blues performers. Jazz icons John Coltrane, Chet Baker, Miles Davis, James Brown, and Melba Moore have all graced its stage, and gangster Al Capone was a known patron in its early days ([hpherald.com][2]). In many ways, it's one of the few remaining testaments to Woodlawn’s vibrant cultural past, outliving neighboring venues such as the Tivoli Theatre and Pershing Hotel ballroom, both long since demolished.

Saved from demolition in the early 2000s, the Grand Ballroom underwent extensive restoration led by developer Andy Schcolnik and ShoreBank, reviving its original charm while updating it for contemporary use. Today it functions as a versatile event venue, capable of seating more than 700 guests or accommodating around 850 standing attendees. The space is frequently used for weddings, corporate events, cultural gatherings, and community functions, and even features in‑house catering, a state‑of‑the‑art sound system, and accessible parking .

Located just south of the 63rd & Cottage Grove Green Line station, this heritage landmark offers more than elegance—it’s a physical chronicle of Chicago’s South Side evolution, from the Jazz Age to today's modern civic engagement. Its continued operation reflects both community resilience and a focused effort to preserve and celebrate a richly layered cultural landscape.

Whether you're seeking architectural beauty, musical history, or a grand setting for your own event, the Grand Ballroom at 6351 South Cottage Grove stands as a jewel of Chicago’s South Side.