Batcolumn
A colossal 101-foot-tall corten steel baseball bat, the Batcolumn is a bold symbol of Chicago's ambition and vigor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for viewing sculpture
Batcolumn
Best Time
Best light for viewing sculpture
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal 101-foot-tall corten steel baseball bat, the Batcolumn is a bold symbol of Chicago's ambition and vigor.
"It’s a symbol of the south side and Chicago White Sox are nearby on 31st. It’s Chicago!"
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture this iconic sculpture from various angles for striking city backdrops. :camerawithflash:
⚾ Baseball Connection
Appreciate its connection to Chicago's baseball heritage, especially if you're a fan. :baseball:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Batcolumn Sculpture
Downtown Chicago
A colossal 101-foot-tall corten steel baseball bat, a bold symbol of Chicago's spirit.
Baseball Symbolism
Near Chicago White Sox Stadium
Represents Chicago's love for baseball and its ambitious spirit, a true icon of the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Art
Location & Context
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture this iconic sculpture from various angles for striking city backdrops. :camerawithflash:
⚾ Baseball Connection
Appreciate its connection to Chicago's baseball heritage, especially if you're a fan. :baseball:
🚶♂️ Urban Exploration
It's a great spot for a quick urban exploration and a unique photo op. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture this iconic sculpture from various angles for striking city backdrops. :camerawithflash:
⚾ Baseball Connection
Appreciate its connection to Chicago's baseball heritage, especially if you're a fan. :baseball:
🚶♂️ Urban Exploration
It's a great spot for a quick urban exploration and a unique photo op. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Batcolumn to be an impressive and iconic piece of public art, appreciating its scale and its connection to Chicago's baseball heritage. While some find it a bit quirky, most agree it's a striking symbol of the city's ambition and a great photo opportunity.
"I sincerely hope that this thing falls over on something orange and blustery"
Jeff Delhaye
"I work nearby and the giant bat looks nice and it’s a symbol of the south side and Chicago White Sox are nearby on 31st. It’s Chicago!"
US MC
"Incredible sculpture⚾️⚾️⚾️⚾️"
Brenda O'Neal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Batcolumn is located in downtown Chicago, near the Harold Washington Social Security Administration Building at 600 W Madison Street. It's accessible via public transportation, with several 'L' train lines and bus routes stopping nearby. Driving is also an option, though parking in downtown Chicago can be challenging and expensive.
Yes, the Batcolumn is situated in a public area and is easily accessible for pedestrians exploring downtown Chicago. It's a great landmark to see while walking around the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Batcolumn is a public art installation and can be viewed freely without any admission tickets. It's an outdoor sculpture.
As an outdoor public sculpture, the Batcolumn can be viewed at any time of day or night. However, daytime offers the best natural light for photography.
📸 📸 Photography
Daytime offers clear views and good lighting for capturing the scale of the sculpture. Evenings can provide a dramatic backdrop with city lights.
Experiment with different angles! Shooting from below can emphasize its height, while wider shots can incorporate the surrounding urban landscape.
🎫 🤔 About the Sculpture
The Batcolumn is a 101-foot-tall corten steel sculpture by Claes Oldenburg, installed in 1977. It's an emblem of Chicago's ambition and vigor, inspired by baseball.
The Batcolumn was created by the renowned artist Claes Oldenburg, known for his large-scale public art installations.
The Batcolumn was dedicated in 1977.
The Batcolumn is constructed from corten steel, a type of weathering steel that develops a stable, rust-like appearance over time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since it's an outdoor public art piece, there are no restrictions or entry fees, making it an easy and free addition to a family's Chicago itinerary. You can easily incorporate a visit to the Batcolumn while exploring other downtown attractions or heading to a nearby park.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different times of day to capture varying light conditions. Golden hour can cast a warm glow on the corten steel, while twilight can create dramatic silhouettes against the city skyline. Consider incorporating the surrounding architecture or street life into your shots for a more dynamic composition.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Claes Oldenburg
This particular piece, a towering baseball bat, taps into Chicago's deep-rooted connection with the sport. It's not just a sculpture; it's a cultural icon that resonates with the city's identity and its passion for baseball, particularly the Chicago White Sox. The choice of corten steel adds a unique aesthetic, allowing the sculpture to age gracefully and blend with its urban environment.
A Symbol of Chicago's Spirit
Installed in 1977, it has become a recognizable landmark, often sparking conversation and offering a unique photo opportunity for visitors and locals alike. Its presence near the Harold Washington Social Security Administration Building ensures it's part of the daily urban landscape for many.
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