Chicago Board of Trade Building Tours and Tickets

The Chicago Board of Trade Building is located in the heart of downtown Chicago, surrounded by several walking routes and trails for both recreational and commuting purposes. Here are some popular walking routes near the Chicago Board of Trade Building:

1. Millennium Park: This iconic park is located just a few blocks east of the Chicago Board of Trade Building and offers a variety of walking paths and trails. The most popular trail is the 2.5-mile-long Lakefront Trail, which loops around Lake Michigan and offers stunning views of the city skyline. The trail is mostly flat with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for all fitness levels.

2. Chicago Riverwalk: The Chicago Riverwalk is a scenic pedestrian path that runs along the Chicago River, just south of the Chicago Board of Trade Building. The Riverwalk extends for about 1.25 miles and features beautiful landscaping, public art installations, and numerous dining and entertainment options. The path is mostly flat with some sections of stairs and ramps leading to street-level crossings.

3. Grant Park: Grant Park is a large urban park located just east of the Chicago Board of Trade Building. The park features several walking paths and trails, including the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain and the Grant Park Music Festival Pavilion. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the park’s paved pathways, which offer varying levels of elevation changes.

4. The 606: The 606 is an elevated pedestrian trail located about 3 miles northwest of the Chicago Board of Trade Building. The trail stretches for 2.7 miles and is perfect for walking, running, or biking. The 606 offers panoramic views of the city and features artwork, gardens, and seating areas along the route. The trail includes ramps and stairs for accessibility and has some gentle elevation changes throughout.

Overall, there are plenty of walking routes and trails near the Chicago Board of Trade Building, ranging from short, flat paths to longer, more challenging trails. Whether you’re looking for a scenic stroll or a heart-pumping workout, you’ll find a variety of options to explore in the vibrant city of Chicago.

The best time to visit the Chicago Board of Trade Building depends on your preferences. Here is some information to help you decide:

Peak Season:

- The peak tourist season in Chicago is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the city.

- The Chicago Board of Trade Building is a popular tourist attraction, so it can get crowded during peak season. It is recommended to visit early in the day or during the week to avoid long lines and crowds.

- Summer is also when many special events and festivals take place in Chicago, such as the Taste of Chicago and Lollapalooza, which can add to the crowds in the city.

Off-Season:

- The off-season in Chicago is typically during the winter months of December, January, and February. The weather is cold and snowy during this time, but the city is much quieter and less crowded.

- Visiting the Chicago Board of Trade Building during the off-season can offer a more peaceful and less hectic experience, with shorter wait times and smaller crowds.

- Some special events and holidays, such as Christmas and New Year’s Eve, may draw more visitors to the city during the off-season.

Overall, the best time to visit the Chicago Board of Trade Building may be during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these times, the weather is mild, and the crowds are not as large as during the peak summer season. Consider checking the local weather forecast and any special events happening in the city when planning your visit.

The Chicago Board of Trade Building, located in the heart of Chicago’s financial district, holds immense historical and cultural significance. Built in 1930, it is one of the city’s most iconic skyscrapers, renowned for its art deco architecture and towering presence on the city skyline.

The building served as the headquarters of the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT), one of the oldest futures and options exchanges in the world. The CBOT played a pivotal role in the development of Chicago as a major financial center, facilitating the trading of commodities such as grains, metals, and other agricultural products. The trading floor of the CBOT was a bustling hub of activity, where traders would gather to buy and sell contracts, setting prices that influenced markets around the globe.

The architecture of the Chicago Board of Trade Building itself is a key part of its cultural significance. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Holabird & Root, the building features intricate art deco motifs, including ornate carvings, bronze reliefs, and a striking 31-foot statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, atop its roof. These design elements are a nod to the building’s history as a center of agricultural trade and reflect the prosperity and optimism of the 1920s era in which it was constructed.

Today, the Chicago Board of Trade Building stands as a symbol of Chicago’s enduring legacy as a financial powerhouse and a reminder of the city’s industrial past. It is a designated Chicago Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its preservation for future generations to appreciate and admire.

1. Chicago Riverwalk: This scenic spot along the Chicago River offers great views of the Chicago Board of Trade Building. The best time to capture photos here is during the golden hour, either during sunrise or sunset, for beautiful lighting.

2. Millennium Park: Head to Millennium Park for a classic shot of the Chicago Board of Trade Building with the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture in the foreground. Try to visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

3. Clark Street Bridge: For a different perspective of the Chicago Board of Trade Building, walk across the Clark Street Bridge to capture the building alongside the bustling city streets. Evening hours can provide a nice glow from the city lights.

4. Willis Tower Skydeck: Visit the Willis Tower Skydeck for a bird’s eye view of the Chicago Board of Trade Building and the surrounding cityscape. The best time for photography here is in the morning when the light is soft and the city is waking up.

5. LaSalle Street: Walk along LaSalle Street to capture a stunning view of the Chicago Board of Trade Building framed by the grand architecture of the street. Mid-morning or mid-afternoon are ideal times for photography here.

Remember to check the weather forecast and plan your photo shoot accordingly for optimal lighting and conditions.

The Chicago Board of Trade Building is highly recommended by visitors for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. Many visitors mention the impressive art deco design of the building and recommend taking a guided tour to learn more about its history. Some visitors also suggest taking a trip to the observation deck for stunning views of the city and Lake Michigan. Local tips include visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and checking the building’s website for any special events or exhibitions. Overall, visitors praise the Chicago Board of Trade Building as a must-see attraction in the city.

The Chicago Board of Trade Building does not offer on-site bicycle, mobility scooter, or wheelchair rentals. However, there are several rental companies in the area that offer these services. Here are a few options:

1. Bike and Roll Chicago: Located at Millennium Park, Bike and Roll Chicago offers bike rentals for exploring the city. They also have a variety of adaptive bikes and recumbent trikes for individuals with mobility challenges.

2. Bobby’s Bike Hike: This bike rental company offers both traditional bikes and electric bikes for rent. They also have options for guided tours around the city.

3. Scootaround: Scootaround is a nationwide mobility equipment rental company that offers scooter and wheelchair rentals in Chicago. They can deliver the equipment directly to the Chicago Board of Trade Building or any other location in the city.

4. Chicago Wheelchair Rentals: This company specializes in wheelchair rentals for both short and long-term needs. They offer manual and power wheelchairs for rent.

Please contact these rental companies directly for pricing, availability, and reservation information.

The Chicago Board of Trade Building is a historic landmark in Chicago known for its unique architecture and rich history. It was designed by renowned architects Holabird & Root and completed in 1930. The building stands out for its iconic art deco style, featuring a striking façade adorned with elaborate carvings and sculptures symbolizing agriculture and industry.

One of the most distinctive features of the Chicago Board of Trade Building is its art deco lobby, which boasts magnificent marble floors, ornate ceiling murals, and a grand staircase. Visitors can also marvel at the impressive trading floor, where traders engage in the buying and selling of commodities such as grains, precious metals, and energy products.

This attraction is best suited for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning about the history of Chicago’s financial markets. The Chicago Board of Trade Building offers guided tours that provide insight into the building’s architecture, history, and the role it has played in shaping the city’s identity as a center of commerce.

Overall, the Chicago Board of Trade Building is a must-visit for those looking to experience a piece of Chicago’s architectural and financial history. It offers a unique glimpse into the city’s past and its ongoing legacy as a hub for trading and business.

1. The Chicago Board of Trade Building is adorned with a plethora of intricate art deco details and sculptures, which represent the agricultural commodities that were traded in the building. Look closely at the exterior of the building to spot these unique and often overlooked architectural features.

2. Inside the building, there are several stunning murals painted by artist John W. Norton that depict scenes of agriculture and industry in Chicago. These murals provide a glimpse into the city’s rich history and the significance of the commodities traded at the Board of Trade.

3. The building is home to the famous "Room 602," which is a preserved trading room from the early 20th century. Visitors can step back in time and experience what it was like to trade commodities in this historic room, complete with original trading pits and vintage telephones.

4. The Chicago Board of Trade Building offers guided tours that provide a deeper insight into the history of the trading floor, the architecture of the building, and the impact of the commodities market on Chicago’s development. This is a great way to learn more about this iconic landmark beyond its exterior facade.

5. For those interested in architecture, the Chicago Board of Trade Building was one of the first skyscrapers in the city and is considered a prime example of art deco architecture. Take a moment to appreciate the building’s design, from its elegant lobby to its towering pinnacle, which was once the tallest building in Chicago.

When visiting the Chicago Board of Trade Building, it is important to be aware of the following safety protocols and regulations:

1. Building access: Visitors must enter through designated entrances and follow security procedures upon entry. Be prepared to show identification if required.

2. Emergency exits: Familiarize yourself with the emergency exit locations and routes in case of an evacuation.

3. Fire safety: In the event of a fire alarm, follow evacuation procedures immediately and do not use elevators.

4. Elevator safety: Follow posted guidelines for elevator use, including weight limits and occupancy restrictions.

5. Security checks: Be prepared to undergo security checks, including bag inspections, before entering certain areas of the building.

6. Respect designated areas: Stay within designated visitor areas and do not enter restricted or unauthorized areas.

7. Follow instructions: Follow any instructions given by security personnel or building staff.

8. Report any suspicious activity: If you see something unusual or suspicious, report it to building security immediately.

By following these safety protocols and regulations, visitors can help ensure a safe and secure experience when visiting the Chicago Board of Trade Building.

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