Tribune Tower Chicago
Iconic Neo-Gothic skyscraper featuring a facade adorned with stones from world landmarks, a true Chicago architectural marvel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Tribune Tower Chicago
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Neo-Gothic skyscraper featuring a facade adorned with stones from world landmarks, a true Chicago architectural marvel.
"One of the coolest building exteriors I've seen. The blocks from historical sites is really interesting."
🚶♀️ Walkable Downtown
Stay downtown to easily walk to Tribune Tower and other attractions.
🚗 Skip the Car Rental
Chicago's public transit is excellent; avoid parking hassles and traffic.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Facade of World Stones
Exterior walls
Discover embedded stones from historic sites worldwide, a unique architectural feature.
Hall of Inscriptions
Lobby
Marvel at marble walls inscribed with quotes celebrating the ideals of a free press.
Architectural Grandeur
Exterior
Admire the stunning Neo-Gothic design, a true Chicago architectural gem.
Views from the Top
Crown/Residences (limited access)
Experience breathtaking city and river views from the tower's upper levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Chicago's Transit
Exploring the Tribune Tower
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walkable Downtown
Stay downtown to easily walk to Tribune Tower and other attractions.
🚗 Skip the Car Rental
Chicago's public transit is excellent; avoid parking hassles and traffic.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The exterior offers numerous angles for stunning photographs.
💎 Admire the Details
Look closely at the facade for the embedded stones from around the world.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkable Downtown
Stay downtown to easily walk to Tribune Tower and other attractions.
🚗 Skip the Car Rental
Chicago's public transit is excellent; avoid parking hassles and traffic.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The exterior offers numerous angles for stunning photographs.
💎 Admire the Details
Look closely at the facade for the embedded stones from around the world.
🚇 Master the 'L'
Familiarize yourself with the color-coded 'L' train lines for easy travel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Tribune Tower's stunning Neo-Gothic architecture and the unique facade adorned with stones from global landmarks. Many appreciate the historical significance and the opportunity for great photos. Some find the Trump Tower's signage distracting, but the tower itself is consistently praised as a beautiful piece of Chicago's skyline.
"One of the coolest building exteriors I've seen. The blocks from historical sites is really interesting."
Sam C
"Nice place to sit and relax. Very clean and lots of photo op."
Izzy H
"It is such a beautiful piece of architecture. I only wish it wasn't planted next to the obnoxious TRUMP lettered building next to it, which, by the way, is also a beautiful building. Just the letters really ruin the skyline for me."
Randy Davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is via Chicago's 'L' train system. The CTA Blue Line from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) or the Red Line will get you close to Michigan Avenue. +1 Many downtown hotels are within walking distance.
The area around Tribune Tower is generally safe, especially after dark, as it's a very active tourist and business district. However, always exercise standard city precautions.
While driving is possible, renting a car in Chicago is often discouraged due to traffic and parking challenges. Public transit is highly recommended.
Downtown Chicago is very walkable. For longer distances, the CTA 'L' trains and buses are efficient and cover most areas. +1
Yes, Tribune Tower is very accessible by public transport. Several 'L' train lines stop within a few blocks, making it easy to reach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The exterior of Tribune Tower, including its unique facade, is visible from the street and does not require tickets to view.
While the building houses residences and offices, limited public access to certain areas like the lobby or specific tours may be available. Check for current tour availability.
The exterior of Tribune Tower can be viewed at any time, as it is part of the city's streetscape.
Historically, tours have been offered, sometimes focusing on the architecture and history. It's best to check with local tour operators or the building management for current offerings.
The Hall of Inscriptions is typically accessible via the building's lobby. Access may depend on building hours and any ongoing events or renovations.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from Michigan Avenue, looking up at the facade, and from across the Chicago River for a wider architectural view.
Photography rules inside the building may vary. It's advisable to ask permission if you plan to take extensive photos in public areas.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light that highlights the intricate details of the Neo-Gothic architecture.
Yes, drone usage is generally restricted in downtown Chicago, especially around tall buildings and public areas. Always check local regulations.
Its unique facade adorned with stones from global landmarks and its stunning Neo-Gothic design make it a highly photogenic building.
🎫 🏛️ Architecture & History
Tribune Tower is a prime example of Neo-Gothic architecture, inspired by medieval European cathedrals.
The tower was designed by architects John Mead Howells and Raymond Hood, following a design competition.
The facade is decorated with stones collected from famous historical sites and landmarks around the world, symbolizing global connections.
Construction was completed in 1925, making it a historic landmark in Chicago's skyline.
The 1922 competition to design the Chicago Tribune's headquarters was a landmark event in architectural history, attracting designs from renowned architects worldwide.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While access to the upper floors might be limited, the exterior and lobby are easily accessible and provide plenty of visual interest. Consider combining your visit with a walk along the nearby Chicago Riverwalk or a visit to Millennium Park, both family-friendly attractions easily reachable from the tower.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The embedded stones offer unique close-up shots, while the tower's height provides dramatic perspectives from street level. Experiment with different angles from Michigan Avenue or across the Chicago River for varied compositions. While interior access might be restricted, the exterior alone is a photographer's dream, offering endless possibilities for capturing the essence of Chicago's architectural heritage.
🏛️ History Buffs
The facade's collection of stones from world landmarks offers a tangible link to global history, allowing visitors to connect with sites they may only have read about. Exploring the Hall of Inscriptions provides insight into the ideals of journalism and free speech, core tenets of the Chicago Tribune's legacy. Understanding the building's context within Chicago's development and its role as a media powerhouse adds depth to any visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tribune Tower's Global Facade
Visitors can spend time identifying stones from places like the Great Wall of China, the Parthenon in Athens, and even fragments from battlefields. This 'collection of the world's architecture' makes the Chicago Tribune Building a living museum, offering a fascinating scavenger hunt for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. It's a testament to the building's ambition and its place in global architectural discourse.
Navigating Chicago Like a Local
From O'Hare International Airport, the CTA Blue Line offers a direct and cost-effective route into the city center, saving you the significant expense of a taxi or rideshare.
The Tribune Tower's Architectural Significance
The tower's distinctive silhouette, intricate detailing, and soaring spires have made it an iconic part of the Chicago skyline. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the building represents a period of significant growth and ambition for the city and its prominent newspaper. Its enduring presence continues to inspire awe and admiration, making it a must-see for anyone interested in Chicago architecture.
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