MC_PP/ShutterstockNine Amazing Buildings You Can See on a Chicago Architecture River Cruise Laura Li April 3, 2015 Arts & History, Chicago, Interests 1 Comment As the largest city in the Midwest, Chicago has a lot to offer, including a wealth of historically and architecturally significant buildings. Due to the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the city’s buildings aren’t as old as those of other American cities—which simply means that contemporary architects had more room to spotlight their original designs. You can admire these stunning buildings from the sidewalk or from the Skydeck of the Willis Tower, but there’s a better — and possibly more relaxing — way to see the city: an architecture river cruise! The most popular architecture river cruises are run by the Chicago Architecture Foundation, and other companies such as Shoreline Sightseeing, which offers a similar experience. Regardless of which cruise you choose, you’ll hear entertaining stories from enthusiastic guides–many of them architecture students from one of Chicago’s many local universities–and hopefully learn something new. So why not start looking for some cheap flights to Chicago and give yourself the opportunity to experience these magnificent buildings up close–all while enjoying a relaxing cruise through the heart of the Second City. Marina City Marina City, Downtown Chicago Most memorable for its resemblance to giant cobs of corn, Marina City is one of the most accessible examples of the otherwise aptly named Brutalist style, which championed the Mid-Century use of concrete. The identical towers were built in 1964 as an urban experiment to counteract Chicago’s white flight. They came complete with upscale amenities such as a theater, gym, bowling alley, stores and restaurants. Although these towers were derided by locals at first, they have since have become an indispensable and iconic part of the Chicago skyline. Willis Tower Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower) The former Sears Tower, Chicago’s tallest building, may have new owners and a new name, but it remains as imposing as it was the day it was finished in 1973 and heralded as the tallest in the world at that time. The newly christened Willis Towers was that last supertall building created in what is known as the International Style. The stacked shape of the building is due to its “bundled tube” structure, which helps the building withstand wind loads. Although the “Windy City” actually got that nickname because of all the hot air emanating from local politicians, it’s nonetheless important that the city’s tallest building remains intact. Wrigley Building The Wrigley Building The Wrigley Building is positioned proudly where Chicago’s storied Michigan Avenue crosses the Chicago River. When the building was completed in 1921, it helped initiate a revitalization of the downtown area bringing it out of its gritty industrial past toward a more sophisticated future. In fact, it was the first of the buildings that now define the city’s famed “Magnificent Mile.” The building bears the name of chewing gum tycoon William Wrigley, Jr., and is a stunning example of the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture style. In fact, Wrigley was inspired to create the building in this style after visiting the World’s Colombian Exposition of 1893 when he was a child. Jewelers Building (35 East Wacker Drive) Completed in 1927, the Jewelers Building was the tallest in the world outside of New York City when it was built. This neoclassical style building is located in the Loop area of the Windy City at the intersection of E. Wacker Drive and Wabash Avenue. The building rises 40 stories into the air, including a 17-story tower, and a magnificently ornate cupola. The Jewelers Building is distinguished with a place on the National Register of Historic Places as well as a designation as an official Chicago Landmark. Tribune Tower This Gothic Revival masterpiece features an Indiana limestone design, distinctive buttresses, beautifully carved stone, and a unique octagonal campanile. Home to the Chicago Tribune newspaper, the Tribune Tower was designed by the New York firm Howells & Hood in 1922. The crown of the building harkens back to a Medieval European tower modeled off the 13th-century Rouen Cathedral. The inside of the tower is just as beautiful as the exterior, featuring the famous Hall of Inscriptions with quotes from American icons such as Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin. Fittingly, these quotes praise the importance of the freedom of the press. You Might Also Be Interested in: Chicago! How Well Do You Know This World-Class City? Merchandise Mart You simply cannot miss the Merchandise Mart, spanning the length of two city block, rising 25 stories high, and built right on the bank of the river. The Art Deco building is located where the North, South, and Main branches of the Chicago River meet. The building first came to fruition when Marshall Field & Co. set out to create a central retail marketplace for the region. Affectionately known as theMart, the building also boasts the famous Art on theMART digital art projection screen, stretching across 2.5 acres along one side of the venue. Lyric Opera House The Lyric Opera House is more than just an amazing setting to take in a show. Featuring a balance of Art Deco and Art Nouveau architectural styles, the building is a masterpiece of its own. Originally built in 1929, the opera house was renovated for the 1996-1997 season opening. Like many of the most stunning pieces of architecture located in Chicago, this building stretches along Wacker Drive. If you love the exterior of the building, you would be wise to make a plan to see a show inside the majestic auditorium. Aqua Tower It is hard to miss the gorgeous exterior of 333 West Wacker. This stunning example of Post-Modern architecture is located at the intersection of the Main and South branches of the Chicago River. The 36-floor office building features a 489-foot curved glass façade that takes on the color of the river, changing as the sun moves across it throughout the day. The glass also serves as a mirror for the buildings on the other side of the river bank, reflecting beauty all around it. So whaddya think? Do you agree that Chicago is one of the best American cities for a relaxing yet informative vacation? You can start your visit with a river cruise or work it in towards the end. We recommend the latter: there’s just so much to see in the Second City you’ll probably be needing a rest. What are your favorite buildings in Chicago? Let us know in the comments!
