Marquette Building: A Chicago Architectural Gem
Explore the Marquette Building, a landmark of Chicago architecture, with its Tiffany mosaics and historic design in the heart of the Loop.
The Marquette Building, located at 140 S Dearborn St in the heart of Chicago's Loop, stands as a testament to the city's architectural heritage. Completed in 1895, this 16-story structure is a prime example of the Chicago School of Architecture, showcasing the innovative use of steel-frame construction for which the city became famous. Designed by Holabird & Roche, the building was commissioned by real estate investors Peter and Shepherd Brooks as a speculative commercial office space. The building's exterior is clad in horizontally banded brown terra cotta, featuring the signature "Chicago windows"—large fixed central panes flanked by narrow, operable sash windows. The facade clearly expresses its underlying steel structure, with broad windows set in a framework of narrow piers and spandrels. Above the exterior doors are four bronze panels that capture Father Marquette and Louis Jolliet's journey through what would become Chicago in 1674-75. The interior is equally impressive, centered around an ornate, two-story lobby. Here, visitors can admire mosaic panels made by the Tiffany firm and bronze busts of Native Americans, animals, and early explorers. Edward Kemeys sculpted most of the bronze busts above the elevators on the first and second floors, as well as the calumets and panther heads on the entry doors. The building's rich artwork celebrates Chicago's early history, inhabitants, and explorers. The Marquette Building has received numerous accolades, including being designated a Chicago Landmark in 1975, added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, and named a National Historic Landmark in 1976. Today, the building is owned by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, which completed an extensive four-year restoration in 2006. Visitors can explore the lobby and admire its architectural details and artwork.
Local tips
- Visit the Marquette Building lobby to see the Tiffany mosaic panels and bronze sculptures that depict Chicago's early history.
- Look for the signature "Chicago windows" which are large panes of glass flanked by narrow sash windows, a hallmark of the Chicago School of Architecture.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the building's innovative exterior design and interior artwork.
A brief summary to Marquette Building
- 140 S Dearborn St, Chicago, Chicago Loop, Illinois, 60603, US
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Marquette Building is easily accessible via Chicago's 'L' train system. Several lines serve the Loop area, including the Green, Orange, Brown, and Red Lines. Exit at Adams/Wabash or Monroe/Dearborn and walk a few blocks to 140 S Dearborn St. CTA fares are $2.50 per ride. Alternatively, numerous bus routes stop near the building. Bus fares are $2.25 per ride. A Ventra card can be used on both buses and trains.
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Walking
Located in the heart of the Loop, the Marquette Building is within walking distance of many downtown attractions. From Millennium Park, walk west along Adams Street for about 10 minutes. From the Art Institute of Chicago, walk west on Adams Street for about 5 minutes. Walking is free.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Chicago. A short ride from nearby locations such as Union Station or Navy Pier will typically cost between $10 and $15, depending on traffic.
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Parking
Several parking garages are located near the Marquette Building. Garages such as Citadel Center Garage (131 S. Dearborn St.) and 30 W. Monroe Building (35 S Dearborn St.) offer parking options. Hourly parking rates typically range from $20 to $30. It is advisable to check online parking apps like ParkWhiz or SpotHero for real-time availability and rates.
