/ / /

Marina City Tours and Tickets

🎧 Available audio guides (5)

Hidden Gems (EN)

🔗 Open in new tab

Emotional Experience Guide (EN)

🔗 Open in new tab

Local Insights (EN)

🔗 Open in new tab

Photo Opportunity (EN)

🔗 Open in new tab

Practical Information (EN)

🔗 Open in new tab

0 Reviews

1. Marina City is a unique cylindrical complex of two 65-story towers located in downtown Chicago, Illinois. It was designed by architect Bertrand Goldberg in 1964 and completed in 1967. The towers have a distinctive corn-cob shape and were intended to be a “city within a city”, with apartments, offices, shops, restaurants, and a marina. Marina City has been featured in many movies and TV shows, including Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and The Good Wife.

2. Marina City is open to the public during normal business hours. The phone number for the complex is (312) 836-5000.

3. There is no admission fee to visit Marina City, and it is accessible by public transportation (bus and subway) or by car. There are parking facilities nearby, but they can be expensive.

300 N State St.

Welcome to Marina City, a bustling complex in the heart of Chicago that stands as a testament to the city’s architectural innovation and creativity. As you step onto the streets surrounding the iconic twin towers, you are immediately enveloped in a symphony of sounds - the honking of car horns, the chatter of passersby, and the distant hum of the city.

As you make your way towards the towers, the first thing that catches your attention is the striking sight of their distinctive corncob shape, rising majestically into the sky. The sunlight casts a warm glow on the curved balconies and rounded edges, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow that dances across the buildings’ surfaces.

You take a moment to pause and admire the sheer audacity of the architects who conceived such a bold and futuristic design. The towers seem to exude a sense of energy and vitality, as if they are alive with the spirit of innovation that inspired their creation.

As you enter the complex, you are greeted by a lively scene - the sound of clinking glasses and laughter wafting from the bustling bars and restaurants that line the streets. The smell of sizzling food fills the air, tempting your taste buds and igniting a hunger that you didn’t even know you had.

You make your way through the narrow alleys and winding pathways, each turn revealing a new surprise - a hidden courtyard adorned with lush greenery, a vibrant mural splashed across a brick wall, or a street performer captivating a crowd with their music.

The buildings themselves seem to pulsate with life, their vibrant colors and bold shapes creating a kaleidoscope of visual stimulation. You can’t help but feel a surge of inspiration as you take in the sheer creativity and ingenuity that surrounds you.

But amidst all the hustle and bustle, there are moments of quiet introspection. You find yourself drawn to the edge of the river, where the water shimmers in the sunlight and the gentle lapping of the waves creates a soothing soundtrack. Here, you take a moment to reflect on the beauty and complexity of the world around you, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for being able to experience it all.

As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the towers, you realize that your visit to Marina City has been nothing short of a sensory feast. You leave with a heart full of wonder and a mind buzzing with inspiration, eager to carry the magic of this place with you wherever you go.

The Marina City Towers in Chicago do not currently offer audio descriptive guides or have specific sensory-friendly hours. However, visitors can contact the towers in advance to inquire about accommodations for those with specific accessibility needs.

As a resident of Marina City in Chicago, I have had the privilege of living in one of the city’s most iconic architectural landmarks. Designed by architect Bertrand Goldberg, Marina City is a vibrant mixed-use complex that consists of two towering corncob-shaped high rises, surrounded by a marina, restaurants, and shops.

Living in Marina City feels like being part of a close-knit community within the bustling city of Chicago. The unique architecture of the buildings creates a sense of unity among residents, and the stunning views of the Chicago River and the city skyline are truly breathtaking.

Local artists and writers often draw inspiration from Marina City’s distinctive design and its place in the history of Chicago architecture. The buildings have been featured in numerous works of art, photography, and literature, capturing the essence of this modernist masterpiece.

One of the most famous depictions of Marina City is the album cover of Wilco’s "Yankee Hotel Foxtrot," which showcases the buildings against a cloudy sky, adding to the mystique and allure of this iconic landmark.

Visitors to Marina City often marvel at the unique design and take guided tours to learn more about its history and significance in Chicago’s architectural landscape. The restaurants and shops within the complex also attract tourists and locals alike, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of this waterfront community.

Overall, Marina City is not just a place to live, but a symbol of creativity, innovation, and community spirit in the heart of Chicago. It continues to inspire artists and writers, as well as residents, with its unparalleled beauty and timeless design.

### Marina City, Chicago: Directions and Transportation

#### Directions:

Marina City is located in downtown Chicago along the Chicago River at 300 N. State Street, Chicago, IL 60654.

#### Public Transportation:

- Train: The closest train station is the Merchandise Mart station served by the Brown and Purple lines.

- Bus: Various CTA bus routes serve the area, including routes 22, 29, 36, 62, and more.

- Water taxi: The Chicago Water Taxi offers service to Marina City from various stops along the Chicago River.

#### Accessibility:

- Marina City is accessible to people with disabilities, with ramps and elevators available at the complex.

- The CTA buses and trains are wheelchair-accessible, providing convenient transportation options.

- Water taxis generally have accessibility features, but it’s recommended to check with the service provider for specific needs.

### Marina City, Chicago: Ticket Booking and Discounts

#### Ticket Booking:

- Tickets for tours, shows, or events at Marina City can be purchased online through the official websites of respective venues or through third-party ticketing platforms.

- Ticket purchase options may also include in-person sales at box offices or booths at the complex.

#### Discounts:

- Some venues at Marina City may offer discounts for students, seniors, military personnel, or group bookings. It’s advisable to check for available discounts during the booking process.

- Subscriptions or loyalty programs with venues or ticketing partners may also provide discounted rates for regular visitors.

### Marina City, Chicago: Local Amenities

#### Parking:

- Marina City offers parking facilities for visitors, either in on-site garages or nearby parking lots.

- Rates for parking may vary, so it’s recommended to check with the parking services for current pricing and availability.

#### Restrooms:

- Restrooms are available within the individual venue spaces at Marina City, catering to visitors’ needs while on-site.

- Public restroom facilities may also be accessible in common areas or nearby establishments.

#### Dining Options:

- Marina City boasts a variety of dining options, including restaurants, cafes, and bars offering diverse cuisines.

- Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary preferences can be accommodated at select dining establishments in and around Marina City.

- Visitors can enjoy a range of dining experiences, from casual bites to fine dining, within the complex or in the surrounding neighborhood.

Overview

More Adventures for You