The Chicago Cultural Center is one of the most popular attractions in Illinois. Exhibitions, concerts, festivals are organized here, and various programs are implemented. According to open data, an average of a thousand events are held per year, and admission to many of them is free for both citizens and tourists from all over the world.
History of creation
Initially, the goal was to open a public library, in 1947 the entire area of the building was occupied by books and periodicals. It took 5 years from the approval of the project to its implementation. 30 years later, the institution was transformed into a cultural and art center. The changes were initiated by Louis Weisberg, who was appointed Chicago's first commissioner of cultural Affairs. The locals reacted positively to this decision, because with its help their leisure time has become more diverse. Also, against this background, the tourist flow has increased.
In 1991, all the book collections moved to the Harold Washington Library Center. The first national public center in America has opened in Chicago Loop. In 2021-2022, a large-scale reconstruction took place here, and during the work it was possible to preserve the original appearance. Then the glass dome and decorative decoration in the halls were restored. This was made possible by a grant of $15 million.
Short description
The Chicago Cultural Center is designed in neoclassical style with Renaissance elements. The facility still says it's a public library, which surprises new visitors. The old name was not removed, as the building has the status of an architectural monument. This means that its facade and decorative elements, including inscriptions carved in stone, are protected by law from any changes.
For the convenience of visitors, there are 2 entrances: from the north and south wings. One of the features of the non-profit organization is considered to be a stained glass dome from Tiffany, consisting of 30 thousand pieces of glass. It is located in the Preston Bradley Auditorium, in the southern part of the building.
The Chicago Cultural Center organizes dance, music events, concerts, and creative performances of various genres. You can find out about the events on the site of the attraction or on the 1st floor of the building where the tourist center operates.
Galleries are open on the 1,2, 4 floors of the Chicago Cultural Center, where you can get acquainted with the works of painters from the USA and other countries. A separate exhibition is dedicated to the works that were painted by artists with disabilities.
How to get
You need to arrive at the intersection of Washington Street and Michigan Avenue. There is a NoNo bus route near the Chicago Cultural Center. 3, 4, 19, 20, 26, 60, 66, 124, 143, 147, 151, 157. The nearest metro station is Randolph/Wabash.
Admission to the Chicago Cultural Center is free, and visitors are usually welcome here from Monday to Thursday from 9.00 to 19.00, on Fridays from 9.00 to 18.00, on Saturdays from 10.00 to 18.00, and on holidays from 10.00 to 16.00. There may be changes to the schedule, so you should study the schedule before heading to the Chicago Loop commercial district, where the world-famous center is located.
Gallery
