300 North LaSalle Chicago: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Standing tall on the north bank of the Chicago River in the vibrant River North neighborhood, 300 North LaSalle exemplifies the fusion of modern architectural vision, sustainable development, and urban connectivity. This 60-story skyscraper is not just a hub for business—its sleek glass façade, striking three-story lobby, and lively riverfront terrace also make it a public destination for architecture aficionados, city explorers, and anyone drawn to Chicago’s evolving skyline. As a LEED Platinum and WiredScore Platinum-certified building, 300 North LaSalle leads Chicago’s riverfront renaissance and offers visitors an accessible window into the city’s architectural and cultural identity.
This comprehensive guide details visiting hours, public access, architectural highlights, amenities, travel tips, and the building’s broader significance—ensuring you make the most of your visit to one of Chicago’s premier urban landmarks. For official updates and further details, consult resources such as Pickard Chilton, Skyscraper Center, and Choose Chicago.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Visiting Hours and Public Access
- Accessibility Features
- Architectural Highlights
- Onsite Amenities and Dining
- Riverwalk Connection and Outdoor Spaces
- Getting There: Travel Tips & Nearby Attractions
- Special Events, Tours & Visitor Experience
- Environmental Leadership and Urban Impact
- FAQs
- Related Chicago Attractions
- Conclusion
- References
Visiting Hours and Public Access
300 North LaSalle is primarily a commercial office tower, but it provides public access to several key areas:
- Lobby: Open weekdays from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, the spacious lobby features premium finishes and floor-to-ceiling glass with river views.
- Riverfront Terrace & Garden: Accessible during daylight hours (generally 7:00 AM–10:00 PM), weather permitting. The landscaped terraces offer a peaceful setting with panoramic views of the Chicago River and skyline.
- Tickets: No tickets are required for public areas. Please note that upper office floors and certain amenities are reserved for tenants and authorized guests.
Security protocols and ID verification may apply for building entry.
Accessibility Features
300 North LaSalle is fully ADA-compliant:
- Entrances, elevators, and restrooms are wheelchair accessible.
- Accessible parking is available in the underground garage.
- Assistance can be requested at the security or concierge desk.
Architectural Highlights
Designed by Pickard Chilton and completed in 2009, the building’s architecture is a study in modern elegance:
- Column-free floor plates provide flexible interior layouts.
- Floor-to-ceiling low-E glass maximizes daylight and energy efficiency.
- Three-story lobby with cherry wood, stainless steel, and dynamic digital media.
- 200 feet of river frontage with landscaped terraces and direct Riverwalk access.
- Stainless steel crown and stepped setbacks pay homage to Chicago’s Art Deco tradition.
The building is celebrated for its integration of International Style and historic motifs, creating a dialogue with the city’s rich skyscraper legacy (Buildings DB).
Onsite Amenities and Dining
- Chicago Cut Steakhouse: An acclaimed destination for steak and seafood, featuring a recently expanded riverside dining room with panoramic river views and an upper-level event space.
- Fitness Center & Conference Facilities: Primarily for tenants, but event attendees may have access.
- Lobby Café: Offers craft coffee and light fare in a modern setting.
Riverwalk Connection and Outdoor Spaces
The building’s riverfront garden and plaza seamlessly connect to the Chicago Riverwalk, expanding public access and creating a lively urban oasis. Terraced landscaping, seating areas, and future plans for an indoor-outdoor terrace enhance the experience for visitors and locals alike (Pickard Chilton, Skyscraper Center).
Getting There: Travel Tips & Nearby Attractions
- Public Transport: Steps from CTA “L” stations, and both Ogilvie Transportation Center and Union Station are within walking distance.
- Parking: Underground garage with EV charging, nearby public garages, and limited street parking.
- Cycling: Indoor bicycle parking is available for tenants.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the Chicago Riverwalk, Millennium Park, Navy Pier, The Magnificent Mile, and the Art Institute of Chicago. The River North area is renowned for its vibrant dining, arts, and cultural scene.
Special Events, Tours & Visitor Experience
- Events: The riverfront plaza and public spaces frequently host seasonal events and gatherings.
- Tours: While there are no regular interior tours, 300 North LaSalle is featured on most Chicago architecture river cruises and walking tours (Time Out Chicago).
- Observatory Deck: Occasionally open during special events—check the official website for availability.
- Photography: Permitted in public areas; early mornings and sunset provide the best light for photos.
Environmental Leadership and Urban Impact
A model of sustainable urbanism, 300 North LaSalle’s LEED Platinum certification highlights several green features:
- Low-E glass façade for energy efficiency.
- 50% green roof to reduce heat island effect and manage stormwater.
- River water cooling for HVAC, saving millions of gallons of water annually (Buildings DB).
- Flexible, open interiors to minimize construction waste.
The building’s design and amenities have influenced riverfront development standards citywide, balancing commercial success with public benefit and ecological responsibility (Pickard Chilton, Skyscraper Center).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is 300 North LaSalle open to the public?
A: Yes, public spaces such as the lobby, riverfront garden, and retail areas are open during posted hours.
Q: Are tickets required?
A: No tickets are required for public spaces. Observatory deck access may require tickets during special events.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: There are no regular interior tours, but architecture river cruises highlight the building.
Q: Is the building ADA accessible?
A: Yes, all public areas are fully accessible.
Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: Early mornings and evenings (especially at sunset) offer the best views and lighter crowds.
Related Chicago Attractions
Expand your exploration with these Chicago landmarks:
- Willis Tower
- The Wrigley Building
- Chicago Architecture Foundation Center
Conclusion
300 North LaSalle stands as a beacon of Chicago’s architectural innovation and urban renewal. Its harmonious blend of modern design, riverfront vitality, and sustainable practices creates a dynamic destination for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re admiring the skyline from the terrace, enjoying fine dining, or exploring Chicago’s broader architectural landscape, this landmark offers a rich, memorable experience.
Plan your visit today! For the latest updates, download the Audiala app, follow us on social media, and explore related guides to Chicago’s top sights.
Image Captions & Alt Text Suggestions
- A wide-angle view of 300 North LaSalle towering over the Chicago River (alt: “300 North LaSalle skyscraper along Chicago River”)
- The modernized lobby of 300 North LaSalle with premium finishes and digital media elements (alt: “Interior lobby of 300 North LaSalle with modern design”)
- Chicago Cut Steakhouse’s riverside dining room overlooking the Chicago River (alt: “Chicago Cut Steakhouse dining area with river view”)
- Pedestrians enjoying the Chicago Riverwalk adjacent to 300 North LaSalle (alt: “Visitors walking along Chicago Riverwalk near 300 North LaSalle”)
References
- Pickard Chilton – 300 North LaSalle
- Skyscraper Center – 300 North LaSalle
- Choose Chicago – Visitor Resources
- Time Out Chicago – Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- ArchDaily – 300 North LaSalle
- Buildings DB – 300 North LaSalle Building
- Wikipedia – 300 North LaSalle
