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Merchandise Mart

  • Very large white building on a river
Once the largest building in the world, the Merchandise Mart remains a center for commercial and residential design.
  • Very large white building on a river

This massive structure has kept up with the times and is now recognized as a key Chicago hub for technological innovation.

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

222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago River entrance

Designed by Graham, Anderson, Probst & White, the mammoth Merchandise Mart opened its doors in 1930. Ever since, it has had a commanding presence on the north bank of the Chicago River. The interior is filled with sumptuous Art Deco ornamentation, including gorgeous Jules Guerin murals which illustrate commerce throughout the world.

Commerce defines what happens in this "city within a city," which has its own elevated transit station and houses many shops, restaurants, showrooms, offices and exhibition space. Environmentally sensitive renovations by management have resulted in the Merchandise Mart's Gold LEED certification in recent years.

After the tour ends, linger awhile for lunch and visit Luxe Home's kitchen, bath and building product boutiques, located on Merchandise Mart’s main floor.

Know before you go:
  • The tour meets at the foot of the grand stairs in the main lobby. The lobby is in the center of the building. 
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

    • I love this tour for many reasons but especially because it beautifully demonstrates and illustrates how a magnificent, well designed "older" building can retain its original elegance and style while adapting and changing to meet the needs and tastes of the times.
      Betsy BermanCAC Docent
  • Building lobby with checkered marble floor

    Photo by Peter J. Sieger

  • Exterior of large white building, looking up from the ground

    Merchandise Mart exterior

  • Exterior of large white building, looking up from the ground

    Merchandise Mart exterior

  • Row of busts on pillars along sidewalk by river

    Merchandise Mart Hall of Fame bust sculptures

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 Merchandise Mart 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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