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Tribune Tower
Historic Building

Tribune Tower

Chicago
4.6
(1,200 reviews)
25
Tours Available
$20
Adult Entry
2-3 hours
Recommended Duration
April-May, September-October
Best Time

Overview

The Tribune Tower is a historic skyscraper in Chicago, known for its neo-Gothic architecture and its significance in the history of American journalism. It houses the Chicago Tribune and offers public tours to view its architectural details and historical exhibits.

The Tribune Tower is a landmark of Chicago's skyline and a symbol of the city's journalistic heritage. It has been designated a Chicago Landmark and is recognized for its unique design and historical importance.

Architectural Landmark Museum

Location

Address

435 Michigan Ave., Streeterville, Chicago, Illinois

Neighborhood: Streeterville

Coordinates

41.890600, -87.624000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
friday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
saturday 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
sunday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults
$20
Children
$12 (ages 6-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and better lighting for photos

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
1 hour
Recommended
2-3 hours
Full Experience
half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

  • • Blooming flowers
  • • Spring festivals

summer

hot and humid

  • • Extended hours

autumn

cool and crisp

  • • Fall colors
  • • Harvest festivals

winter

cold and snowy

  • • Holiday lights
  • • Christmas markets

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Book tickets in advance
  • Bring valid ID
  • Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID Printed tickets Comfortable shoes

recommended

Camera Sunscreen Water bottle

seasonal

Jacket in spring/fall Umbrella Warm clothing in winter

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Professional camera equipment without permit Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate, due to walking and stairs

  • • Uneven surfaces in some areas
  • • Stairs in historic sections

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit cards, Debit cards, Cash (limited)

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $20
tours $25
food $15
souvenirs $20

Dress Code

Smart casual, Comfortable shoes for walking, Walking shoes or sneakers, Inappropriate or revealing clothing, High heels

Booking Tips

  • • At least 1 week in advance for peak seasons
  • • Official website or authorized ticket vendors
  • • 48 hours in advance for full refund
  • • Available for online bookings

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
Information center
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Chicago Tribune Tower

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Rooftop

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: O'Hare International Airport

Distance: 25 km

Travel Time: 30-45 minutes

taxi
$40-$50 30-40 min
public_transport
$5 45-60 min

From City Center

Distance: 3 km

metro
$2.50 15 min
bus
$2.50 20 min
taxi
$10-$15 10-15 min
bike
$3.30 per 30 min 10-15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: A symbol of Chicago's rich history and resilience, offering a unique blend of journalism and architecture

Historical Significance: Home to the Chicago Tribune since 1925, witness to major historical events, and a gathering place for journalists

Insider Tips

  • Free entry early morning for locals
  • Best food and coffee options at the nearby cafes
  • Local artists often display work in the lobby

Local Recommendations

  • • Try the local coffee at a nearby cafe
  • • Ask for the self-guided tour map at the visitor center
  • • Visit the nearby Millennium Park for more iconic Chicago shots

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello
thank_you Thank you
where_is Where is the
how_much How much is the entry fee
beautiful Beautiful architecture
ticket Ticket office

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour (late afternoon)

Tips: Capture the neo-Gothic details

Result: Iconic skyscraper shot

#TribuneTower #ChicagoArchitecture #NeoGothic

Rooftop

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Wide-angle shots of the skyline

Result: Breathtaking city views

#ChicagoSkyline #SunsetViews #SkyHigh

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Main lobby, Rooftop (during designated hours)
prohibited areas Exhibits with sensitive artifacts, Private offices
flash photography Not allowed in exhibits
commercial photography Permit required for professional shoots
drone policy Prohibited without special permission
tripod policy Allowed with prior permission
selfie sticks Allowed but must be used responsibly

Nearby Attractions

Millennium Park

Distance: 800m

Walking: 10 min

Type: Park

Art Institute of Chicago

Distance: 1km

Walking: 12 min

Type: Museum

Magnificent Mile

Distance: 500m

Walking: 6 min

Type: Shopping District

Chicago Riverwalk

Distance: 300m

Walking: 4 min

Type: Waterfront promenade

Reviews

4.6

Based on 1,200 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Book online to skip the line"
  • "Visit early for fewer crowds"
  • "Don't miss the rooftop views"

Contact Information

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Quick Info

Available Tours

25

Rating

4.6 / 5.0

Reviews

1,200

Adult Entry

$20

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