Chicago is famous for its iconic architecture and impressive skylines. This makes it the perfect destination for sightseeing and architectural enthusiasts. Since there are numerous incredible buildings, you can be overwhelmed and need help figuring out where to start. Let’s find out some of the top destinations you can visit.
The Willis Tower
Formerly known as the Sears Towers, it was completed in 1974 and held that name for about 25 years. At one point in time, it was the world’s tallest skyscraper. Standing ten stories tall, the Willis Tower is a commercial building that has opened the way to skyscraper inspiration across the globe.
In 2009, it was renamed as the Willis Tower. If you are looking for an architectural marvel in Chicago, ensure you take advantage of the Willis Tower. If you want to journey to the Willis Tower and other architectural marvels seamlessly, ensure you rent a car in Chicago. It is convenient and offers you the flexibility to explore the city’s architectural wonders at your own pace.
The Chicago Athletic Association Hotel
The Chicago Athletic Association Hotel was formerly a private athletic club. Located in a Venetian Gothic landmark, the place now hosts a boutique hotel at the Millennium Park foot’s. Until 2007, the elite club was only accessible to men, till it was relaunched in 2015 as a 241-room hotel.
The Tribune Tower
The Chicago Tribune Newspaper headquarters, dubbed the Tribune Tower, is made from Neo-gothic limestone. This creation began from a competition in 1922, which spurred many global entries wanting to create what they termed as “the most beautiful and distinctive office building in the world” that would serve as the newspaper’s headquarters.
The Rookery Building
Built in 1888, the Rookery Building was redesigned by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1907 and was sheltered with a glass ceiling, maximizing the building’s air and light. It is considered by many to rank among the finest office buildings in the United States.
The building’s facade gives an impression of Moorish, medieval-European, Venetian, and late Roman architecture. Piers with gold geometric patterns and white marble moldings surround the open-air public-use space and the two-story lobby. These critical features of Frank Lloyd Wright’s redesign hide the copper-plate ironwork used initially.
Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center can meet your expectations if you love a visual feast. The stunning glass dome, designed by Tiffany, gives the interior a kaleidoscope of colors. As a neoclassical gem, it shows a commitment to keeping architectural heritage. Additionally, many couples choose this spot as a wedding venue due to its visually appealing architecture.
Harold Washington Library Center
In the Harold Washington Library Center, architectural ingenuity is twisted. The building mixes modern functionality and classic design elements, creating a space celebrating aesthetics and knowledge.
Chicago Water Tower and Pumping Station
In the 1800 ’s, Chicago witnessed a devastating fire that led to the creation of a skyscraper city. As part of that legacy, the water tower is among the buildings that survived the fire, destroying much historic architecture. The Gothic revival water tower is now between high rises, waiting for individuals to explore its rich history.
Endnote
For architecture enthusiasts and travelers, Chicago offers many buildings waiting to be explored. It is filled with stone marvels and steel, small and large. Consider visiting Chicago when next you need to explore some architectural wonders.
Image by jgkstretty from Pixabay
