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Chicago Board of Trade Building: An Art Deco Icon

Experience Chicago's iconic Art Deco skyscraper, home to the world's oldest futures and options exchange, and a symbol of the city's financial history.

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The Chicago Board of Trade Building, an Art Deco masterpiece completed in 1930, stands as a symbol of Chicago's financial prowess and architectural innovation. Its iconic design, capped by the statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, makes it a must-see landmark in the heart of the city's Loop district.

A brief summary to Chicago Board of Trade Building

Local tips

  • Visit the Chicago Board of Trade Building Museum on the first floor to learn about the building's history and the evolution of trading.
  • Take an architecture tour to fully appreciate the building's Art Deco design and its significance in Chicago's skyline.
  • Look for the statue of Ceres atop the building, a symbol of agriculture and the exchange's heritage.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Chicago Board of Trade Building is easily accessible via public transportation. Several bus lines stop near the building, including routes 1, 2, 22, 28, 36, and 37. The LaSalle Street train station is a 2-minute walk away. The CTA 'L' also has stops nearby. A single ride on the CTA bus or 'L' costs $2.50.

  • Walking

    The Chicago Board of Trade Building is located in the heart of the Loop, making it easily accessible on foot from many downtown locations. From Millennium Park, walk west along Jackson Boulevard for about 15 minutes to reach the building. From Union Station, walk east on Jackson Boulevard for about 10 minutes. Be aware of pedestrian traffic and crosswalk signals. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout downtown Chicago. A short taxi or ride-sharing trip from a nearby location, such as Union Station or Millennium Park, will typically cost between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and distance.

  • Parking

    Several parking garages are located near the Chicago Board of Trade Building. Parking rates vary, but you can expect to pay between $15 and $25 for a few hours of parking. Some nearby parking garages include ABM Parking at 311 S. Wacker Dr and SpotHero at 316 S Clark. It is advisable to reserve parking in advance.

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Discover more about Chicago Board of Trade Building

The Chicago Board of Trade Building, located at 141 W Jackson Blvd, is a 44-story Art Deco skyscraper that has been a defining feature of the Chicago skyline since its completion in 1930. Designed by Holabird & Root, the building was commissioned to replace the previous CBOT headquarters on the same site, reflecting Chicago's central role in commodity trading. The building's architecture is characterized by its gray Indiana limestone facade, geometric ornamentation, and a copper pyramid roof. A prominent feature is the 31-foot tall aluminum statue of Ceres, sculpted by John H. Storrs, which sits atop the building, symbolizing the exchange's heritage as a commodities market. Inside, the building boasts large trading floors and Art Deco details, including a grand lobby with intricate metalwork and symbolic imagery. Throughout its history, the Chicago Board of Trade Building has undergone several renovations and expansions to accommodate the evolving needs of the exchange. In 2007, the CBOT merged with the Chicago Mercantile Exchange to form the CME Group, further solidifying Chicago's position as a global financial center. Today, the building remains an active trading venue and a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the world of finance and architectural history. Visitors can explore the building's public spaces, admire its Art Deco design, and learn about the history of commodity trading in Chicago. The Chicago Board of Trade Building Museum, located on the first floor, offers exhibits on the building's history and the evolution of trading.

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