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.

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

Tour Accessibility

CAC is committed to improving access to our tours. The accessibility information below reflects our docents’ experience and is provided for general guidance only.

What to expect on this tour

  • Icon of a person walking with a red percentage sign

    Terrain & Surfaces

    Easy - Paved and flat the entire route

  • Icon of a wheelchair and red arrow

    Wheelchair & Walker Access

    Moderate - Ramps and alternate routes provided

  • Icon of the outline or some steps and a red arrow pointing diagonally right and up.

    Steps or Stairs

    Moderate - Step-free alternate route available

  • Icon of an ear with a red throughline

    Hearing Access

    Easy - Quiet setting, easy to hear

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