Second Leiter Building: A Chicago Architectural Landmark
Explore the Second Leiter Building, a pioneering example of Chicago School architecture and a landmark of early skyscraper design in the heart of the Loop.
The Second Leiter Building, a National Historic Landmark in Chicago's Loop, exemplifies the Chicago School of architecture. Designed by William Le Baron Jenney in 1891, it's renowned for its early use of a steel skeleton frame, a design that allowed for large open spaces and expansive windows.
A brief summary to Second Leiter Building
- 401 S State St, Chicago, Chicago Loop, Illinois, 60605, US
Local tips
- Take a walk around the block to appreciate the building's facade from all angles, noting the grid-like pattern created by the steel frame and large windows.
- Visit during daylight hours to best see the architectural details and the play of light on the pink granite exterior.
- Combine your visit with a tour of other nearby architectural landmarks in the Chicago Loop.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Art Institute of Chicago, walk west along East Adams Street, then turn left onto State Street. Continue south for two blocks. The Second Leiter Building will be on your right, occupying the block between East Ida B. Wells Drive and East Van Buren Street. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.
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Public Transport
Take any CTA train to the Adams/Wabash station. Exit the station and walk east on Adams Street, then turn right onto State Street. Walk south for two blocks. The Second Leiter Building will be on your right. Alternatively, take the Red Line to Monroe station and walk south on State Street. A single ride on CTA costs $2.50 and can be paid using a Ventra card.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Request a taxi or ride-share to 401 S State St, Chicago, IL 60605. From Millennium Park, a taxi ride will typically cost between $8 and $12, depending on traffic. Note that taxi rates in Chicago start at $3.25, plus additional charges per mile and time elapsed.
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Driving
Drive to 401 S State St, Chicago, IL 60605. Parking is available in nearby garages, such as AMA Plaza at 401 N State St, with hourly rates ranging from $8 for 20 minutes to $57 for 12-24 hours. Early bird and evening rates are also available. Be aware that parking in the Loop can be limited, especially during peak hours.
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