Chicago Board of Trade Building

The basics

Designed by acclaimed architects Holabird & Root, the steel-framed structure is clad in grey limestone and capped by a copper pyramid and gigantic statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture. This symbolic element recalls a time when the farming industry ruled Chicago trade.

The art deco interior is usually closed to the public but can be visited on some guided tours. If you get a chance to peek inside, you’ll be greeted by an impressive continual light fixture illuminating a 3-story lobby adorned with glossy black-and-white marble. 

Things to know before you go

• The building’s lobby, basement, and trading floor are not open to the public and can only be visited on a guided tour.
• The building is both an official Chicago Landmark and a National Historic Landmark.
• The CBOT was the tallest building in Chicago for more than 35 years.
• Look for sculptures of hooded figures alongside the clock above the building’s main entrance, across from LaSalle Street.

How to get there

The Chicago Board of Trade Building is located on West Jackson Blvd. in downtown Chicago’s Loop district. Parking in the area is limited, but the building can be easily reached from the LaSalle/Van Buren station on the brown, orange, purple, and pink “L” lines.

When to get there

Admire the Chicago Board of Trade Building’s exterior any time; for a different perspective, walk or drive by at night, when floodlights bathe the building’s geometrical shapes. Visit during the free Open House Chicago event in October to see inside the building. 

Chicago Architecture Cruises

Architecture cruises are a popular way to admire Chicago’s distinctive skyscrapers. Keep your camera out and get a new perspective on the Chicago Board of Trade Building, John Hancock Building, Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), and Wrigley Building while gliding down the Chicago River on an open-top boat. 

Ways to explore

As you wander Jackson Blvd, look up: The Chicago Board of Trade Building is capped by a copper pyramid and a gigantic statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture. This symbolic element recalls a time when the farming industry ruled Chicago trade.

The building’s fabulous art deco interior, once closed to the public, is now open and free to enter, with a museum on the ground floor detailing the building’s history and role in Chicago business. If you peek inside, you’ll be greeted by an impressive 3-story lobby adorned with glossy black-and-white marble.

Accessibility

The ground floor is open to the public and wheelchair-accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera

What to wear

Whatever is comfortable and seasonally appropriate

Not allowed

Open food or drinks, weapons and firearms

Amenities

Restrooms, on-site food options, free entry

Address

The Chicago Board of Trade Building stands on the corner of Jackson and LaSalle in the Chicago Loop, the heart of the city. It’s easily accessible on foot, via public transit, or on a tour.

Driving

It’s best not to drive, but if you must, there are several nearby public and private paid parking garages that will get you within a short walk of the building.

Public transportation

Take the L train to either the LaSalle/Van Buren station, Quincy station, or Jackson station.

Best times to visit

There’s no bad time to visit, though museum hours are weekdays, 10am to 4pm.

Best days to visit

The museum is open Monday through Friday—outside of museum hours, there’s no guarantee the building will be open.

Best months to visit

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) offer pleasant weather for exploring the Loop.

Special events

Chicago Architecture Week, typically in October, features special building tours and can include CBOT—check the city’s calendar for details.