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35 East Wacker: Chicago's Jewelers Building

Discover Chicago's iconic Jewelers Building at 35 East Wacker, an architectural masterpiece with a rich history and stunning Art Deco design.

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35 East Wacker Drive, also known as the Jewelers Building, is a landmark Art Deco skyscraper in downtown Chicago. Built in the 1920s, it stands out with its unique architecture and historical significance as a hub for the city's jewelry trade.

A brief summary to Thirty Five E Wacker

Local tips

  • Look for the large clock on the corner of Wabash and Wacker, a well-known Chicago landmark.
  • Explore the surrounding area for other notable Art Deco buildings, such as the Carbide & Carbon Building and the Chicago Board of Trade Building.
  • Consider taking an architecture tour to learn more about the building's history and design.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From anywhere in downtown Chicago, the CTA 'L' train is a convenient option. Several lines (Red, Blue, Brown, Green, Orange, Purple, Pink) converge in the Loop. Exit at a station close to the intersection of Wabash Avenue and Wacker Drive. A single ride costs $2.50.

  • Walking

    From many downtown locations, 35 East Wacker is easily accessible on foot. It's located on Wacker Drive, along the Chicago River, between Michigan Avenue and State Street. Walking from Millennium Park takes approximately 15 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Chicago. A short ride from another point in the Loop will likely cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and distance.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking near 35 East Wacker can be found in nearby garages. Rates vary, but expect to pay between $15 and $35 for a few hours. Check SpotHero or ParkWhiz for reservations and potential discounts.

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Discover more about Thirty Five E Wacker

Located at the intersection of Wabash Avenue and Wacker Drive, 35 East Wacker Drive, also known as the Jewelers Building, is a 40-story skyscraper that has been a prominent feature of the Chicago skyline since its completion in 1927. Designed by Joachim G. Giaver and Frederick P. Dinkelberg, the building exemplifies the City Beautiful movement with its classical revival style. At the time of its construction, it was the tallest building outside of New York City. The building was originally conceived as a central hub for Chicago's jewelry trade, providing office and display space for jewelers and merchants. To ensure the safety of tenants and their valuable merchandise, the building featured a unique indoor parking garage on floors two through twenty-two. A car elevator system allowed jewelers to drive their vehicles directly to their offices, minimizing the risk of theft. Although innovative, the parking system became obsolete as car designs evolved. The building's architecture showcases a blend of Neoclassical and Art Deco elements. The exterior is clad in tan-colored terra cotta, with a gray limestone base. A notable feature is the large clock mounted on the third floor at the corner of Wabash Avenue and Wacker Drive, donated by the Elgin National Watch Company. The building is crowned by a distinctive dome, which originally housed a restaurant called the Stratosphere Lounge. The building has undergone renovations to modernize the interior while preserving its historic facade.

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