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Macy's on State

  • Interior of old building lobby with arched glass ceilings

    Marshall Fields atrium. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers

Come with us as we explore the fascinating history of Marshall Field’s – the architecture, the store, and the man.
  • Interior of old building lobby with arched glass ceilings

    Marshall Fields atrium. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers

Explore the construction, development and renovation of this State Street landmark by Daniel Burnham.

Duration
1 hour
Site Type
Buildings
Location
Downtown
Architects and Styles
Meet

Inside the Washington Street entrance that is closest to Wabash

Learn how Marshall Field introduced innovations in merchandising that made shopping in this Burnham designed building an experience treasured by Chicagoans and visitors alike. In this changing time for women, Marshall Field viewed his store as a destination where women could come, shop, and meet their friends without being escorted.

Discover the century-old great clocks, the lavish Tiffany vaulted ceiling, the Walnut Room and "Charley's Door." See where the top floors of Macy’s have been repurposed into a separate office building!

Know before you go:
  • This tour is mostly inside, but we will step outside for about 15 minutes.
  • There is a wheelchair accessible entrance to Macy's on State St. and one on Wabash Ave.
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

    • Thank you so much for your diligence and excellent information [on the Macy's tour]! The groups absolutely LOVED their tours and had a wonderful time.
      Tour leaderElmhurst History Museum
    • Chicagoans looked to Marshall Field's as THE place to shop. No matter what you wished for, you could find it at Field's.
      Donna GabanskiCAC Docent
  • Interior view of building atrium with glass ceiling

    Marshall Fields atrium. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

  • Yellow golden globe light fixture hanging from mosaic glass ceiling.

    Tiffany Dome.

  • Blue, gold mosaic tile ceiling with red accents

    Tiffany ceiling. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

  • Store plaque on exterior of stone building

    Store sign on State Street

  • Exterior of large stone building in city downtown

    Photo by Irina Hynes.

  • Exterior of large stone building in city downtown

    Photo by Chad Kainz.

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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