Marina City

The basics

Designed by famed Chicago architect Bertrand Goldberg, the 588-foot (180-meter) towers of Marina City feature open-side parking garages topped by 40 stories of pie-shaped residences that each boast a balcony with city views, many overlooking the Chicago River. While most of the space is private, visitors can get an up-close view of this landmark from the street or on a Chicago River architecture cruise. 

Things to know before you go

• Access to the interiors of the Marina City towers is limited to residents and guests.
• Dine at the base of Marina City for a meal with a view of the Chicago River at Smith and Wollensky’s Grill.
• Catch a show in between the towers at the House of Blues concert venue.

How to get there

Marina City is located on the Chicago River at 300 N. State Street across from the famous Loop central business district. Parking in the area can be challenging, so it’s best to use public transit. The closest stops are Grand on the red line (three blocks north) and the Merchandise Mart on the brown and purple lines (three blocks west).

When to get there

Inside access is never open to the public, but views of the landmark apartment buildings are available 24/7. Architecture cruises along the Chicago River run multiple times throughout the day and night for a different perspective on the site.

Chicago architecture tours

Chicago lays claim to a diverse and impressive skyline, and architecture tours and cruises are a popular way to admire the city's one-of-a-kind urban landscape. Get close to buildings from the street level on architecture walking tours, or cruise past the landmarks that line the Chicago River on a boat tour. Many architecture cruises also venture onto Lake Michigan for views of the entire skyline.  

Ways to explore

If you’re just passing by, give yourself around 15 minutes to admire and photograph the Marina City high-rises, which many people recognize from hit films like Batman Begins and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Anyone looking to stick around can grab a meal or drink from one of the dining establishments inside, or even rent an electric boat from the marina. Marina City is included on many guided tours of Chicago, especially those tailored to the city’s architectural history. A narrated river cruise is a great way to see multiple landmarks without having to walk or bike around.

Accessibility

Many of the public spaces and businesses of Marina City are wheelchair accessible. It’s best to check with individual businesses to be sure ahead of a visit.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, sunscreen (especially if renting a boat or taking a river cruise)

What to wear

Bulky layers in the winter months, hat and sunglasses in summer

Not allowed

Loudly declaring that you think Chicago’s architecture is overrated

Amenities

Hotel, public parking, bowling alley, coffee shop

Address

Marina City is centrally located in downtown Chicago, across from the House of Blues and near the Theater District. You’ll find plenty of ways to get here by car and public transportation, or you can walk or bike from downtown.

Driving

There’s a parking garage located right inside Marina City. However, traffic can be heavy in downtown Chicago, so unless you’re coming from far away, it’s better to come by taxi or rideshare.

Public transportation

On the L, take the red line to State/Lake Station or the blue, pink, brown, green, or orange line to Clark/Lake Station. Plenty of CTA buses also stop along State Street and Wacker Drive; from there, it’s a short walk to Marina City.

Best times to visit

Take a sunset cruise on the Chicago River that lasts until nightfall so you can see famous buildings like Marina City all lit up.

Best days to visit

Marina City can be visited all week long; restaurants and bars are busiest on the weekend, so come during the week if you’d like a quieter experience.

Best months to visit

Chicago has the best weather during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, but the River Walk is most lively in summer.

Special events

Each fall, the Chicago Open House opens up 150 landmarks across a dozen neighborhoods, making it a must for architecture buffs.