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Second Leiter Building: A Chicago Architectural Landmark
Discover Chicago's architectural history at the Second Leiter Building, a pioneering steel-frame skyscraper in the heart of the Loop.
The Second Leiter Building, located in Chicago's Loop, is a landmark of the Chicago School of architecture. Built in 1891, it's renowned as one of the earliest commercial buildings featuring a steel skeleton frame. Once home to Sears, it stands as a testament to innovative design and Chicago's architectural heritage.
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
Public Transport
The Second Leiter Building is easily accessible via public transportation. Take the 'L' to the Harold Washington Library-State/Van Buren stop on the Brown, Orange, Pink, or Purple Line Express. Alternatively, exit at Jackson on the Red Line and walk one block south on State Street. Several bus routes also serve the area, including routes 3, 4, 6, 10, 14, 29, 36, 62, 146, and 147. A single ride on the 'L' or bus costs $2.50, and Ventra cards are accepted.
Walking
From many downtown locations in the Loop, the Second Leiter Building is within walking distance. For example, from the Art Institute of Chicago, walk west on Adams Street to State Street, then south on State Street for a few blocks. The building will be on your right. Walking is free and allows you to appreciate the surrounding architecture.
Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in downtown Chicago. A short ride from a central Loop location to the Second Leiter Building typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.
Local tips
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Take a walk around the block to appreciate the building's innovative steel-frame construction and its impact on skyscraper design.
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Visit nearby architectural landmarks in the Chicago Loop to compare different styles and innovations.
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Check out the Harold Washington Library across the street, another architectural gem that complements the Second Leiter Building.
Discover more about Second Leiter Building
The Second Leiter Building, situated at 401 S State St in Chicago, is a significant example of early skyscraper design. Designed by William Le Baron Jenney and constructed in 1891, it is celebrated as one of the first commercial buildings to utilize a steel skeleton frame, a groundbreaking innovation that allowed for larger windows and open interior spaces.Commissioned by Levi Leiter, the building initially housed the Siegel, Cooper and Company department store. Later, it became the flagship store of Sears, Roebuck and Company from 1931 to 1986. The building's design emphasizes functionality and simplicity, with a facade of pink granite and large windows that provide ample natural light. The eight-story structure occupies an entire city block and is characterized by its grid-like facade, created by wide pilasters and simple capitals.Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976 and a Chicago Landmark in 1997, the Second Leiter Building stands as a reminder of Chicago's architectural innovation and its role in the development of modern commercial buildings.
A brief summary to Second Leiter Building
Use Second Leiter Building as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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