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Second Leiter Building: A Chicago Architectural Landmark
Explore the Second Leiter Building, a pioneering skyscraper and landmark of Chicago's innovative architecture and commercial history.
The Second Leiter Building, a National Historic Landmark in Chicago's Loop, stands as a testament to early skyscraper design with its innovative steel-frame construction. Designed by William Le Baron Jenney in 1891, it showcases the Chicago School of architecture and the city's pioneering spirit.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Second Leiter Building
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
401 S State St, Chicago, Chicago Loop, Illinois, 60605, US
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Getting There
Walking
From the Harold Washington Library-State Street 'L' station, walk one block south on State Street. The Second Leiter Building occupies the block between Ida B. Wells Drive (formerly Congress Parkway) and Van Buren Street on the east side of State Street.
Public Transport
Take any 'L' train to the Harold Washington Library-State Street station (Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, or Purple lines). Exit the station and walk one block south on State Street. Several bus routes also stop near the building, including the #20, #146, and #148. Check the CTA website or app for real-time schedules and fare information; a single ride is $2.50.
Taxi/Ride-share
Ask your driver to take you to 401 S State St, Chicago. Be aware of potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours. A short ride within the Loop should cost approximately $8-$15, excluding surge pricing.
Local tips
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Take a walk around the building to appreciate its architectural details, including the pink granite facade and large windows.
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Visit nearby architectural landmarks in the Chicago Loop to see how the Second Leiter Building influenced later designs.
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Explore State Street, once a bustling retail thoroughfare, and imagine the Second Leiter Building as a flagship department store.
Discover more about Second Leiter Building
The Second Leiter Building, located at 401 S State St in Chicago, is a significant landmark in architectural history. Designed by William Le Baron Jenney and built in 1891, it is celebrated as one of the earliest commercial buildings to utilize a metal skeleton frame. This innovative design allowed for larger windows and open interior spaces, making it a precursor to modern skyscrapers.The building's exterior is characterized by its pink granite facade and simple, yet elegant, design. The State Street facade features nine bays defined by wide pilasters, while the Ida B. Wells Drive and Van Buren Street facades are three bays wide. Each floor boasts 16-foot ceilings and large windows, providing ample natural light.Originally commissioned by Levi Leiter, the building was first leased to the Siegel, Cooper and Company department store. Later, it became the flagship store of Sears, Roebuck and Company from 1931 to 1986. Today, the Second Leiter Building remains a symbol of Chicago's architectural innovation and a reminder of the city's rich history.
A brief summary to Second Leiter Building
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