Rookery Building

  • Interior building lobby with glass ceiling and grand staircase
Explore the interior and exterior of one of Chicago’s most famous and beloved historic buildings.
  • Interior building lobby with glass ceiling and grand staircase

Explore the Rookery by Daniel Burnham and John Wellborn Root; a Moorish castle on the exterior with a stunning interior atrium redesigned by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Duration
1 hour
Site Type
Buildings
Location
Downtown
Architects and Styles
Meet

209 S. LaSalle St. at the grand staircase

Marvel at the exquisite beauty and grandeur of the highly ornamented brick and granite exterior, which some liken to a Moorish castle. Learn more about the method of construction and how the architects employed a combination of designs to maximize light and air in this early office building. We’ll also discuss various renovations and restorations to the building and learn the interesting story of how The Rookery earned its name.

Notes:
  • Many tours sell out. To guarantee your space advance reservations are strongly recommended.
  • Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your tour. View the CAC's hours.
  • Your safety is our priority. The itinerary of this tour may be altered in accordance with health and safety policies and considerations.
  • view looking down a staircase with black ornate railings

    Detail of the Rookery staircase

  • view looking down a staircase with black ornate railings

    Rookery Atrium. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

  • Group of people gathered in building lobby

    Rookery Atrium.

  • Corner of building with ornate lettering of street names

    Rookery Exterior

  • Corner of building with ornate lettering of street names

    Rookery Exterior. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

  • Looking up at entrance to building with two flags

    Rookery Exterior. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

FAQ

  • Essential walking tours depart from the center at 111 East Wacker; they are free for all CAC members. Premier walking tours depart from other locations across Chicago, including neighborhood tours. Premier tours are discounted for individual, dual and family memberships and free for Deco level and above.

  • The CAC welcomes all visitors and is committed to making its offerings feel safe and accessible to everyone. Learn more about accessibility options.

  • Many of our tours depart from the CAC at 111 E. Wacker. Your ticket (regular or print-at-home) will indicate the departure location. If you have any questions about your tour’s meeting place, give us a call at 312.922.TOUR (8687).

    For tours that don’t begin at the CAC, please consult the individual tour webpage, or call 312.922.TOUR (8687) for details on the meeting location.

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Buildings on This Tour

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Group & Private Tours

CAC offers discounted rates and customized options for groups and tour operators. Learn about options here.

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Free Center Entry with Your Ticket

Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your walking or bus tour.

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