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Elks National Memorial and Headquarters: A Beaux-Arts Masterpiece

A Chicago landmark honoring veterans with stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and intricate interior artistry in the heart of Lincoln Park.

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The Elks National Memorial and Headquarters in Chicago is a stunning Beaux-Arts building dedicated to Elks members who served in World War I and subsequent conflicts. Serving as both a war memorial and the national headquarters for the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, it features a Roman-inspired dome, intricate sculptures, and allegorical murals.

A brief summary to Elks National Memorial and Headquarters

Local tips

  • Visit between April 15 and November 15 when the Memorial is open to the public, Monday through Saturday, from noon to 4 PM.
  • Explore the surrounding Lincoln Park, including the Goethe Monument and the statue of Alexander Hamilton.
  • Take advantage of the convenient public transportation options, with several CTA bus routes stopping nearby.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Elks National Memorial is easily accessible via public transportation. CTA buses #76, 77, 134, 143, 151, and 156 stop at the corner of Sheridan Road and Diversey Parkway, right outside the building. If arriving by 'L' train, take the Brown Line to the Diversey stop, then walk a half-mile east or transfer to an eastbound #76 bus. A single fare for CTA buses and trains is $2.50.

  • Walking

    From the Lincoln Park Zoo, head north on N Cannon Drive, then turn right onto W Fullerton Parkway. Turn left onto N Lakeview Ave, and the Elks National Memorial will be on your left. The walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Chicago. A ride from downtown Chicago (e.g., near the Magnificent Mile) to the Elks National Memorial will typically cost between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip.

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Discover more about Elks National Memorial and Headquarters

The Elks National Memorial and Headquarters, located in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture. Dedicated in 1926, the building serves as a memorial to the Elks members who served in World War I and later conflicts, as well as the national headquarters for the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. The Elks organization, founded in 1868, planned the memorial to honor members' service and provide a national headquarters. Architect Egerton Swartwout's design was selected in a competition administered by the American Institute of Architects. Construction began in 1923, using marble from around the world and durable Indiana limestone. The building's lavish design includes a large dome, encircling columns, and an ornate interior. The interior features a rotunda adorned with colored marbles, frescoes, chandeliers, and stained glass windows. Sculptures by James Earle Fraser represent the Elks' cardinal virtues: charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity. Murals by Eugene Savage and Edwin Blashfield depict the Triumphs of War and the Triumphs of Peace. The building was rededicated several times to honor veterans of later wars and underwent a restoration in 2013. Today, the Elks National Memorial stands as a landmark and a testament to the Elks' commitment to service and remembrance.

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