Chicago Cultural Center

The Basics

The Chicago Cultural Center is the highlight of many Chicago architecture tours. Choose between river cruises or walking tours of Chicago’s architectural treasures. You can also explore the center’s architecture on a self-guided tour or take the center’s free afternoon tour. Art exhibits are featured year-round in the center’s four galleries and lunchtime concerts are offered frequently during weekdays.

Things to Know Before You Go

• A must-see for architecture buffs and arts and culture lovers.
• Wi-Fi is available in public locations in the center.
• Art exhibits, concerts, and guided tours are free at the Chicago Cultural Center.
• The Randolph Street entrance is wheelchair accessible and wheelchairs are available for rent in the center lobby.

How to Get There

The Chicago Cultural Center is located on 78 East Washington Street in downtown Chicago near Millennium Park. Take the Red Line subway to the Lake stop or the Blue Line to the Washington stop and arrive within a few minutes walk of the center. The Chicago Cultural Center is also easily accessed by public bus, taxi, rideshare, or bike. Pay parking is available in the Millennium Park Garage.

When to Get There

The Chicago Cultural Center is open to the public Monday through Friday from 10am to 7pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm. Free building tours are offered Wednesdays through Saturdays at 1:15pm. Slots book up fast for the free tour, so arrive early to guarantee your spot.

Chicago Cultural Center Architectural Highlights

The center was designed in the Classical Revival style, taking inspiration from the architectural forms of ancient Greece and Rome. Made from 30,000 individual pieces of glass, the Tiffany dome in Preston Bradley Hall is the world’s largest and one of the center’s must sees. The Sidney R. Yates Gallery is a replica of Doge’s Palace in Venice and the marble used in the main entrance mosaics was taken from the same quarries used by Michelangelo. The curved stairway in the Randolph Street entrance is also not to be missed.

Ways to explore

The Chicago Cultural Center is the highlight of many Chicago architecture tours. You can’t exactly tell from the building’s outside, but the building’s interior includes an absolute neoclassical masterpiece. Peek inside on a walking tour of Chicago’s architectural treasures, and you’ll get to discover the exquisite rotunda, the Tiffany Dome, and more.

You can also explore the center’s architecture on a self-guided tour or take the center’s free afternoon tour. Art exhibits are featured year-round in the center’s four galleries, and lunchtime concerts are offered frequently during weekdays.

Accessibility

The wheelchair-accessible entrance is located at Garland Court and Randolph Street; the facility is fully accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water bottle, clothing layer for air-conditioning

What to wear

Comfortable shoes for walking and standing

Not allowed

Guns, disruptive behavior

Amenities

Wi-Fi, restrooms, water fountains, seating areas, tours

Address

The Chicago Cultural Center sits in the heart of downtown Chicago on Washington Street, directly across from Millennium Park. It’s easy to get there on foot, via public transit, or on a tour.

Driving

Downtown traffic can be quite heavy, so driving isn’t recommended—but if you must drive, there are paid parking garages nearby, including at Millennium Park.

Public transportation

Metra’s Millennium Station is located on the corner; you could also take the L and get off at Washington/Wabash for a short walk to the center.

Best times to visit

Visit on a weekday morning for a quiet experience. You can also catch a free tour in the afternoon, a lunchtime concert, or a nighttime event.

Best days to visit

Take advantage of the center’s free guided tours on Thursdays and Fridays, which typically start at 1:15pm.

Best months to visit

The best months to visit Chicago are in spring (April–May) and fall (September–October). These months offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

Special events

Festivals and special events: The Chicago Cultural Center is a hub of festivals and special events, including the World Music Festival, Chicago Jazz Festival, and more. Check the center calendar.