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Marquette Building

  • Exterior shot of a building with sculptures carved in relief above the door and dark walls.

    Marquette Building entrance. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers

Completed in 1894, the Marquette Building brings Chicago’s early history to life in an artistic and elegant setting.
  • Exterior shot of a building with sculptures carved in relief above the door and dark walls.

    Marquette Building entrance. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers

Learn about the Marquette Building's innovative exterior design and get an up-close view of the beautiful interior and its extensive array of artwork. 

Duration
45 minutes
Site Type
Buildings
Location
Downtown
Architects and Styles
Meet

140 S. Dearborn St., inside the building lobby

The Marquette Building is an icon of the Chicago Commercial style of architecture. An intricate bronze bas-relief at the entry to the building and a dazzling Tiffany mosaic recount the exploits of Father Jacques Marquette, and explain why the building was named for him.

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.

Tour reviews

    • Learn about the exploits of Father Jacques Marquette, a missionary and explorer in 17th century New France. How did 19th century artists express 17th century history? We will discuss this as we view portraits of Father Jacques Marquette and the Native Americans whom he encountered on his journey.
      Nancy SchwabCAC Docent
  • Image looking up at the top of a brown building with details around the edges of the top

    Marquette Building at street view. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers

  • Interior shot of the lobby looking down from below with mosaics lining the walls and people in the lobby below

    Marquette Building lobby

  • Close up image of the exterior of a brown building featuring the details of one of the windows including some relief carvings

    Window detail of the Marquette Building

  • Close up shot of a colorful mosaic that illustrates people in a boat

    Mosaic detail in the Marquette Building

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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MORE ABOUT THIS BUILDING

Discover more about the Marquette Building in CAC's Buildings of Chicago online library.

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Group & Private Tours

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

See Group and Private tours
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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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