Site of Old Fort Dearborn
Explore the place where Chicago began, marked by plaques and signs at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive.
Visit the site of Old Fort Dearborn, a pivotal 19th-century military outpost that shaped Chicago's early development. Though the original fort is gone, informative markers at the Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive intersection tell the stories of soldiers and settlers who once occupied this strategic location.
A brief summary to Site of Old Fort Dearborn
- London House, E Lower Wacker Dr, Chicago, Chicago Loop, Illinois, 60601, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Look for the bronze markers embedded in the sidewalk at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive to visualize the fort's original boundaries.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Chicago Riverwalk for scenic views of the city's architecture.
- Visit nearby Millennium Park and other downtown attractions to make the most of your trip.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you're near Millennium Park, walk south on Michigan Avenue until you reach the Chicago River. Cross the DuSable Bridge at Wacker Drive and continue walking east along E Lower Wacker Drive. The Site of Old Fort Dearborn is situated near the London House.
-
Public Transport
From anywhere in Chicago, use the 'L' train to reach the Loop area. The closest 'L' stops are State/Lake or Clark/Lake. From there, walk towards the Chicago River and Lower Wacker Drive. CTA fares are $2.50 for the 'L' train.
-
Taxi/Ride Share
Request a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) directly to London House, E Lower Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601. Taxi flag pull is $3.25, plus $2.25 per mile and time elapsed. Ride-sharing costs vary but expect to pay $15-30 for a short trip within the downtown area.
-
Car
If driving, navigate to London House, E Lower Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601. Parking in the area can be challenging and expensive. Expect to pay $25-$40 for a few hours of parking in a nearby garage. Check online parking apps for the best rates and availability.
Discover more about Site of Old Fort Dearborn
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Site of Old Fort Dearborn
0.0 km
Step back in time at Old Fort Dearborn, Chicago's historic military landmark, and explore the roots of American history.
Mather Tower
0.1 km
Discover Mather Tower, a historic neo-Gothic skyscraper in Chicago's Loop, showcasing architectural splendor and rich heritage.
Chicago River
0.1 km
Explore the Chicago River – a scenic waterway showcasing breathtaking architecture and vibrant urban life in the heart of the Windy City.
Carbide & Carbon Building
0.2 km
Explore the Carbide & Carbon Building, a stunning Art Deco landmark in Chicago's Loop, rich in history and architectural beauty.
Heald Square Monument
0.2 km
Explore the Heald Square Monument, an iconic historical landmark in Chicago, where history, art, and culture unite for an unforgettable experience.
Plaza of the Americas
0.2 km
Explore the Plaza of the Americas, a historical landmark in Chicago offering vibrant culture, shopping, and dining experiences in a picturesque setting.
Jack Brickhouse Statue
0.2 km
Visit the Jack Brickhouse Statue in Chicago, a tribute to the legendary broadcaster and an iconic symbol of baseball history in the city.
Tribune Tower
0.3 km
Explore Tribune Tower, an iconic neo-Gothic historical landmark in Chicago, showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Chicagohenge
0.3 km
Experience Chicagohenge, a breathtaking urban phenomenon in Chicago where the sun aligns perfectly with the city's skyline during the equinoxes.
Chicago River Walk at State St
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant Chicago River Walk, an urban oasis blending stunning skyline views, art, and dining along the scenic riverbank.
Page Brothers Building
0.4 km
Explore the Page Brothers Building: A Stunning Historical Landmark in Chicago's Loop, Showcasing Architectural Elegance and Rich Heritage.
Dearborn Street Bridge
0.4 km
Discover Chicago's architectural gem, the Dearborn Street Bridge, offering stunning views and a unique glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant culture.
N State St
0.4 km
Discover the lively N State St in Chicago, a vibrant street filled with shops, dining, and the bustling spirit of urban life.
Millennium Monument
0.5 km
Experience the artistic legacy of Chicago at the stunning Millennium Monument, a landmark in the heart of Millennium Park.
Lorado Taft Marker of Distinction
0.5 km
Explore the Lorado Taft Marker of Distinction in Chicago's Loop, a tribute to the artistic legacy of one of America's renowned sculptors.
Unmissable attractions to see
DuSable Bridge
0.1 km
Experience the historic DuSable Bridge in Chicago, connecting the vibrant Magnificent Mile to the serene waterfront with stunning views and rich history.
Chicago Architecture Center
0.1 km
Explore Chicago's architectural heritage at the Chicago Architecture Center, where history and design come to life through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Tours
0.1 km
Explore Chicago's dark history with Gangsters and Ghosts Tours, where thrilling tales of crime and the supernatural await every visitor.
400 N Michigan Ave
0.1 km
Discover the Magnificent Mile in Chicago: a vibrant hub of shopping, dining, and culture, where history meets modern luxury along the iconic Michigan Avenue.
Wendella Tours & Cruises
0.1 km
Discover Chicago's stunning skyline and rich history with Wendella Tours & Cruises, offering scenic boat tours on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan.
Riverwalk
0.1 km
Explore the Chicago Riverwalk: a scenic urban retreat with stunning views, delightful dining, and cultural experiences along the river.
Pioneer Court
0.2 km
Discover Pioneer Court, a stunning plaza in Chicago that combines art, architecture, and nature for an unforgettable urban experience.
The Wrigley Building
0.2 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of The Wrigley Building, a Chicago landmark along Michigan Avenue.
Chicago Magnifico
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Chicago at Chicago Magnifico, a must-visit tourist attraction offering culture, entertainment, and stunning views.
Shoreline Sightseeing
0.2 km
Experience Chicago's stunning skyline and rich architecture on a memorable boat tour with Shoreline Sightseeing for an unforgettable adventure.
Thirty Five E Wacker
0.2 km
Explore the historical beauty of Thirty Five E Wacker, a landmark in Chicago's Loop rich in architecture and culture.
Essential places to dine
Billy Goat Tavern (Millennium Park)
0.3 km
Discover Billy Goat Tavern: A historic Chicago grill serving iconic burgers in a vibrant atmosphere near Millennium Park.
The Purple Pig Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience Mediterranean flavors at The Purple Pig Restaurant in Chicago – where every dish tells a story.
Elephant & Castle
0.3 km
Discover the charm of British pub culture at Elephant & Castle in Chicago's Loop – where great food meets lively ambiance.
State and Lake Chicago Tavern
0.3 km
Experience vibrant American cuisine at State and Lake Chicago Tavern - where great food meets lively atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Michael Jordan's Steak House Chicago
0.4 km
Experience top-tier steaks and vibrant sports culture at Michael Jordan's Steak House in Chicago – where culinary excellence meets legendary athleticism.
Doc B's Restaurant (River North)
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Doc B's Restaurant in River North - where delicious food meets great cocktails.
Labriola Chicago
0.4 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Labriola Chicago - where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Siena Tavern
0.4 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Siena Tavern, where tradition meets modern flair in the heart of Chicago.
Yardbird Table & Bar
0.5 km
Discover Yardbird Table & Bar: A vibrant destination for Southern-inspired cuisine and fine wines in Chicago's Near North Side.
The Evie
0.5 km
Discover The Evie: A vibrant American restaurant in Chicago offering fresh seafood, succulent steaks, and innovative sushi dishes in an inviting atmosphere.
Il Porcellino
0.5 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Il Porcellino in Chicago's Near North Side—where every meal feels like a trip to Italy.
The Kitchen American Bistro
0.5 km
Experience modern American cuisine at The Kitchen American Bistro in Chicago - where fresh ingredients meet vibrant flavors.
Petterinos
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors in an elegant setting at Petterinos in Chicago Loop, where every meal is a celebration of culinary artistry.
The Dearborn
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at The Dearborn in Chicago's Loop - where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere.
The Smith
0.6 km
Experience the essence of American cuisine at The Smith in Chicago's vibrant Near North Side, where comfort meets culinary excellence.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bye Bye Chicago
0.1 km
Explore Bye Bye Chicago for unique souvenirs and gifts that capture the spirit of the Windy City. A must-visit for every traveler.
I Love Chicago
0.1 km
Discover unique Chicago gifts and souvenirs at I Love Chicago, the ultimate destination for local treasures and memorabilia.
Kyrgyzstan
0.2 km
Explore the heart of Kyrgyzstan through its unique gifts and handcrafted treasures at this charming shop, perfect for every traveler.
The Shops at North Bridge
0.4 km
Discover a retail haven at The Shops at North Bridge, where shopping meets dining in the heart of Chicago's vibrant atmosphere.
Raw Edge Magnificent Mile - Modern Artisan Boutique
0.4 km
Explore Raw Edge Magnificent Mile for unique artisan gifts that capture the essence of Chicago's vibrant culture and creativity.
After School Matters Gift Shop
0.4 km
Explore the After School Matters Gift Shop: A unique Chicago destination for handcrafted gifts that support local youth programs.
YoGoe
0.5 km
Explore YoGoe Gift Shop in Chicago Loop for unique, locally sourced gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Windy City.
Buddy
0.5 km
Explore Buddy Gallery in Chicago Loop – a unique boutique and art gallery showcasing local craftsmanship and creativity.
Chicago Souvenir Company
0.5 km
Explore Chicago Souvenir Company for unique and authentic memorabilia that captures the spirit of the Windy City.
Marshalls
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant shopping experience at Marshalls in Chicago, where style meets savings in a wide range of clothing and accessories.
Gift Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at this charming gift shop in Chicago's vibrant Streeterville neighborhood, perfect for every traveler.
P.O.S.H.
0.6 km
Explore P.O.S.H., Chicago's unique gift shop, offering eclectic home goods and memorable souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Windy City.
Souvenir City Chicago
0.6 km
Explore Souvenir City Chicago for unique gifts and authentic Chicago memorabilia, perfect for tourists seeking to capture the spirit of the Windy City.
Chicago Athletic Association Gift Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique Chicago souvenirs at the Chicago Athletic Association Gift Shop, where local culture meets exquisite gifting.
My Chicago!
0.8 km
Discover a unique blend of clothing and souvenirs at My Chicago! – your go-to destination for capturing the spirit of the Windy City.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Pendry Chicago
0.1 km
Discover the elegance of Bar Pendry in Chicago Loop, where innovative cocktails meet a stylish atmosphere for a memorable night out.
Emerald Loop Bar & Grill
0.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of American cuisine and Irish pub charm at Emerald Loop Bar & Grill in the heart of Chicago's Loop.
Rossi's
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Rossi's Bar in Chicago's Near North Side, where great drinks and an inviting atmosphere await.
RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar
0.4 km
Discover RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar in Chicago Loop for stunning views, handcrafted cocktails, and vibrant social atmosphere.
Upstairs at The Gwen
0.4 km
Discover the elegance of cocktail culture at Upstairs at The Gwen, a rooftop bar offering stunning views and exquisite drinks in the heart of Chicago.
MBar - Millennium Station
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Chicago at MBar - a modern bar offering unique cocktails and a lively atmosphere in Millennium Station.
Eno Wine Bar
0.4 km
Indulge in an exquisite selection of wines and gourmet pairings at Eno Wine Bar, a chic destination for wine enthusiasts in Chicago's Streeterville.
320 River Bar
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at 320 River Bar, a must-visit bar and restaurant in the heart of Chicago.
Reviver
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant American dining scene at Reviver, a stylish bar offering crafted cocktails and delicious cuisine in downtown Chicago.
Bunny Slope
0.5 km
Discover Bunny Slope, a chic cocktail bar in Chicago's Near North Side, offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for every night out.
Broken Shaker at Freehand Chicago
0.5 km
Discover innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere at Broken Shaker, a standout cocktail bar in the heart of Chicago's nightlife.
The Berkshire Room
0.5 km
Experience the elegance of The Berkshire Room, Chicago's premier lounge offering exquisite cocktails and a chic atmosphere in the Near North Side.
Three Dots and a Dash
0.5 km
Experience tropical cocktails and an enchanting ambiance at Three Dots and a Dash, Chicago's premier cocktail bar.
Watershed Bar
0.6 km
Discover Watershed Bar in Chicago, where creative cocktails meet a cozy ambiance in the heart of the city.
The Boss Bar
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Boss Bar, a top destination in Chicago for cocktails, live music, and unforgettable memories.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The PIMCO Midway Club
0.3 km
Discover The PIMCO Midway Club in Chicago - a stylish lounge offering American cuisine, crafted cocktails, and an inviting atmosphere for relaxing evenings.
ROOF on theWit
0.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at ROOF on theWit, Chicago's premier rooftop lounge with delicious American cuisine and live music.
ROCBAR
0.4 km
ROCBAR: A Premier Night Club in Chicago Offering Vibrant Atmosphere, Great Music, and Unforgettable Nights Out.
Braceria Se nni mondo esistesse un po' di bene
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Chicago at Braceria Se nni mondo esistesse un po' di bene, where great food, drinks, and music come together.
Social Twenty-Five
0.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Social Twenty-Five in Chicago's Near North Side, where music, drinks, and dancing await you.
Bodega Nightclub
0.5 km
Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Bodega Nightclub, Chicago's hotspot for nightlife, unique music, and unforgettable dance parties.
DISCO
0.6 km
Discover the heart of Chicago's nightlife at DISCO, where vibrant music and pulsating energy create unforgettable nights.
MASQ
0.6 km
Dive into a dazzling nightlife experience at MASQ, a top Chicago night club that offers thrilling music and an electrifying atmosphere.
Sunset Lounge
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Chicago at Sunset Lounge, a stylish night club offering exquisite cocktails and an electrifying atmosphere.
RockHard Chicago at Tunnel
0.7 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at RockHard Chicago at Tunnel, where top DJs and vibrant atmosphere promise an unforgettable experience.
Tunnel
0.7 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at Tunnel, Chicago's top destination for dancing, cocktails, and unforgettable memories.
Castle Chicago
0.7 km
Explore the enchanting nightlife of Castle Chicago, a premier night club boasting a unique castle ambiance and vibrant energy in the heart of the city.
Fame Nightclub
0.9 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at Fame Nightclub in Chicago's Near North Side, where stylish ambiance meets vibrant energy.
LITE Chicago
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at LITE Chicago, where exhilarating beats and an electrifying atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Sound Bar
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Chicago at Sound Bar, where top DJs and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
