
Chicago Board of Trade Building
Iconic Art Deco skyscraper, once Chicago's tallest, crowned by the statue of Ceres, offering a glimpse into financial history and design.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lobby access is typically available

Chicago Board of Trade Building
Best Time
Lobby access is typically available

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Art Deco skyscraper, once Chicago's tallest, crowned by the statue of Ceres, offering a glimpse into financial history and design.
"This place is much nicer on the inside than I expected from the rather bland outside."

✨ Admire the Lobby
Don't miss the glamorous interior details, artwork, and craftsmanship in the lobby.
🏛️ Check for Events
Look for events like Open House Chicago for potential extended access.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Art Deco Interiors
Gaze at the glamorous stone, glass, and metalwork, intricate ceiling details, and elevator artwork.

Statue of Ceres
Rooftop
The iconic Roman goddess of agriculture, Ceres, watches over the city from atop the building.

Lobby Artwork
Discover fascinating artwork and detailed craftsmanship around the lobby's doors and ceiling.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Admire the Art Deco Grandeur
Access and Viewing Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Admire the Lobby
Don't miss the glamorous interior details, artwork, and craftsmanship in the lobby.
🏛️ Check for Events
Look for events like Open House Chicago for potential extended access.
☕ Grab a Coffee
Big Shoulders Coffee has a location inside, perfect for a break.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The building's exterior and interior offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Admire the Lobby
Don't miss the glamorous interior details, artwork, and craftsmanship in the lobby.
🏛️ Check for Events
Look for events like Open House Chicago for potential extended access.
☕ Grab a Coffee
Big Shoulders Coffee has a location inside, perfect for a break.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The building's exterior and interior offer fantastic photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Chicago Board of Trade Building for its stunning and glamorous Art Deco interiors, highlighting the intricate artwork and detailed craftsmanship. While the exterior is noted as somewhat bland by some, the interior experience is frequently described as a delightful surprise and a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.
"A fascinating piece of Art Deco architecture.
The combination of stone, glass and metal on the inside make this a really glamorous place to gawk at.
The artwork on the elevators as well the detailwork around the ceiling and doors are fascinating.
This place is much nicer on the inside than I expected from the rather bland outside.
Don't miss out on this and swing on through if you're in the area!"
Ruby
"Beautiful Art Deco building. Spend a few minutes admiring its glamorous design!"
cliffb1930
"Can’t go wrong with an ole’ LaSalle pic."
Jason Rockwell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Chicago Board of Trade Building is located in Chicago's Loop. It's easily accessible via public transportation, with several CTA 'L' train lines and bus routes stopping nearby. Many visitors also walk from other Loop attractions.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options in the vicinity of the Chicago Board of Trade Building. However, parking in the Loop can be expensive.
Public access to the actual trading floors is generally restricted. However, the lobby and interior spaces are often open to the public during business hours.
Many visitors enjoy simply walking through the lobby to admire the Art Deco architecture and details. Taking an architecture tour can also provide historical context.
While not a traditional museum, the Chicago Board of Trade Building is a significant architectural landmark and a popular spot for tourists interested in Chicago's history and design.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no tickets are required to enter the lobby of the Chicago Board of Trade Building during its public access hours. Special tours or events might have associated fees.
The building is typically open to the public during standard business hours on weekdays. It's best to check for any specific event schedules or potential closures.
There is usually no admission fee to enter and view the public areas of the Chicago Board of Trade Building.
While direct access to trading floors is limited, architecture tours often include insights into the building's history and design. Keep an eye out for events like Open House Chicago.
Information on accessibility can vary. It's advisable to contact the building management directly or check for specific accessibility details if needed.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find stunning Art Deco architecture, including intricate artwork on elevators, detailed ceilings, and glamorous metalwork. The lobby itself is a visual treat.
There is a small museum in the lobby that covers the site's history. It's a great place to learn more about the building's significance.
The statue depicts Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture. It symbolizes the building's historical role in trading agricultural commodities.
Photography is generally permitted in the public areas of the lobby, but it's always good to be respectful of the space and any ongoing business activities.
The 'pit' refers to the open trading floor where brokers historically executed trades. While electronic trading has largely replaced it, the concept is central to the building's history.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, Big Shoulders Coffee has a location within the Chicago Board of Trade Building, offering a convenient spot for a coffee break.
The building is located in Chicago's Loop, which is packed with diverse dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, catering to all tastes and budgets.
While there isn't a full-service restaurant inside, the coffee shop provides snacks and beverages. You can find numerous lunch spots in the surrounding Loop area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
📸 Photography Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: Art Deco Design
This architectural splendor is a significant part of Chicago's skyline and a testament to the city's rich design heritage. The building's design emphasizes verticality and symmetry, common traits of Art Deco. The statue of Ceres on its summit, a symbol of agriculture, further connects the building to its historical trading roots.
For those interested in Chicago architecture, the Board of Trade Building offers a unique glimpse into a bygone era of design. It stands as a reminder of the city's past as a global hub for commerce and its enduring appreciation for aesthetic excellence.
History of the Trading Floors
While the advent of electronic trading has significantly changed the landscape, the historical importance of the CBOT and its trading floors cannot be overstated. The building itself is a monument to this era of intense financial activity. Although public access to the active trading areas is limited, the lobby museum offers insights into this fascinating past, detailing the evolution of trading and the building's role in it.
Understanding the history of the trading floors provides a deeper appreciation for the Chicago Board of Trade Building's significance. It's not just an architectural gem but a symbol of Chicago's enduring legacy as a powerhouse in global finance and commerce.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit