Tribune Tower is a Neo-Gothic landmark at 435 N Michigan Avenue, near the Chicago River. Completed in 1925 as the Chicago Tribune’s headquarters, it now contains private residences, so the main attraction is its exterior. Look closely at the lower walls for fragments gathered from historic sites around the world, including the Great Wall of China and the Parthenon. Its spires and detailed stonework stand apart from the newer buildings nearby. A slow walk around the base gives you time to spot the embedded pieces.
A design chosen in an international competition
The Chicago Tribune announced a competition for a new headquarters in 1922, marking the newspaper’s 75th anniversary. More than 260 designs arrived from 23 countries. New York architects John Mead Howells and Raymond Hood won with a Neo-Gothic plan influenced by medieval architecture.
The tower was built between 1923 and 1925. Its steel frame is clad in Indiana limestone, with flying buttresses and spires shaping its distinctive profile. The competition set out to find a design for what the newspaper called the world’s most beautiful office building.
Fragments set into the façade
The lower exterior walls contain pieces of stone and other materials collected from more than 120 notable places. Look carefully as you walk around the base: the fragments include material from the Great Wall of China, the Parthenon and Yellowstone National Park. Other cited examples include Angkor Wat, the Taj Mahal and Notre-Dame.
These pieces are part of the building’s exterior, so a close look is more rewarding than a quick glance from across the street. Signage does not explain every fragment, and a guided architecture tour can provide additional context.
A former newspaper headquarters
Tribune Tower was built to house the Chicago Tribune, but the newspaper later moved out. The building is now used for private residences and retail space, so visitors should not expect to tour the interior as a public attraction.
Its position on Michigan Avenue makes it easy to include while walking through the area. The Wrigley Building is across the street, and the Chicago Riverwalk is nearby. Together, the setting gives you a close view of the tower among other landmarks along the river and avenue.
FAQ
Can you go inside Tribune Tower?
The building now contains private residences and retail space. Plan to view the tower from outside rather than expect access to its residential interior.
What should I look for at Tribune Tower?
Examine the lower exterior walls for fragments from historic sites, including the Great Wall of China and the Parthenon. The Neo-Gothic spires and stone detailing are also visible from the street.
How long do you need at Tribune Tower?
Allow about 15 to 30 minutes to walk around the exterior and look closely at the façade.
Where is Tribune Tower?
It is at 435 N Michigan Avenue in Chicago, near the Chicago River and across from the Wrigley Building.
