Old Colony Building Chicago: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
The Old Colony Building, situated at 407 South Dearborn Street in Chicago’s Loop district, is a celebrated landmark that captures the spirit of late 19th-century architectural innovation. Completed in 1894 by Holabird & Roche, this 17-story skyscraper exemplifies the Chicago School of architecture, noted for its pioneering steel-frame construction, expansive plate-glass windows, and understated ornamentation. Once the tallest building in Chicago, the Old Colony Building played a crucial role in shaping the city’s post-Great Fire skyline and continues to draw architecture enthusiasts from around the world. Now functioning primarily as residential and student housing, the building’s iconic exterior and preserved lobby connect visitors to the city’s industrial and architectural heritage. Standing in the South Dearborn Printing House Row Historic District—a National Historic Landmark District—the Old Colony is easily accessible by public transit and frequently featured on local architectural tours. This guide provides essential information for planning your visit, covering hours, ticketing, tours, nearby attractions, and tips for making the most of your experience. For more details, explore the Chicago Architecture Center and local tours through organizations like the Chicago Architecture Foundation and Open House Chicago.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Location and Accessibility
- Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
- Architectural Origins and Innovations
- Current Uses and Tenancy
- Visitor Experience and Tips
- Guided Tours and Photography
- Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
- Events and Community Engagement
- Preservation and Landmark Status
- Accommodation Options Nearby
- FAQs
- Visuals and Media
- Internal and External Links
- Contact Information
- Recommendations for a Memorable Visit
- Stay Connected and Up to Date
Location and Accessibility
The Old Colony Building is located at 407 South Dearborn Street, at the southeast corner of Dearborn and Van Buren Streets in Chicago’s Loop. The Harold Washington Library-State/Van Buren CTA station (Brown, Orange, Pink, and Purple Lines) is steps away, and the area is well-served by bus routes and nearby parking garages. The flat terrain and pedestrian-friendly streets of the Loop make the building accessible for all visitors (Chicago Transit Authority).
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Public Access
- Exterior Viewing: The building’s striking façade can be viewed from public sidewalks 24/7.
- Lobby Access: The lobby is typically accessible during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM. Access may require signing in with security, and hours may vary.
- Interior Access: There are no standard public tours or tickets for the interior, as the building serves as a private residential complex.
Special Events and Tours
- The Old Colony Building occasionally participates in citywide events such as Open House Chicago, providing rare interior access to the public. Tickets for such events are usually available through organizers.
- Local groups like the Chicago Architecture Center and Chicago Greeter offer guided Loop and Printing House Row tours featuring the Old Colony’s exterior and history.
- Self-guided walking tours are also popular, with resources and maps available through architecture organizations.
Architectural Origins and Innovations
Constructed in 1894, the Old Colony Building was designed by Holabird & Roche and stood at 215 feet (66 meters), making it the tallest building in Chicago at the time (Classic Chicago Magazine). It is a quintessential example of the Chicago School, featuring:
- Steel-frame construction: Allowed for taller structures and larger windows.
- Curved corner bays: Maximized use of limited urban space.
- Chicago windows: Large central panes flanked by smaller movable sashes for enhanced light and ventilation.
- Terra cotta and brick façade: Durable, with intricate details and minimal ornamentation.
Engineering Innovations
- Internal Portal Arch Wind Bracing: The Old Colony was the first tall building to use this system, which provided lateral stability against strong winds and allowed for open floor plans (Development Strategies).
- Fireproofing: Use of hollow tile surrounds for columns and steel vaults in offices, a response to the Great Chicago Fire (Chicago Textures).
- Cantilever Foundation: Engineered to minimize settlement and address encroaching neighboring buildings.
Current Uses and Tenancy
Following a major renovation in 2015, the Old Colony Building now serves as upscale student apartments and residential units, primarily catering to students from Columbia College Chicago, DePaul University, and Roosevelt University (Old Colony Apartments). The adaptive reuse preserved original features—such as mosaic-tiled corridors and ironwork—while adding modern amenities.
The ground floor includes retail and commercial spaces, such as cafés and convenience stores, enriching the Loop community.
Visitor Experience and Tips
Best Viewing and Photography
- The intersection of Dearborn and Van Buren Streets offers the best vantage points for exterior photos, capturing the building’s curved bays and ornate detailing.
- Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for photography.
Accessibility
- Sidewalks and entrances are wheelchair accessible.
- Elevators serve all floors for residents and authorized visitors.
- No public restrooms; nearby facilities are available at the Harold Washington Library.
Safety
- The Loop is well-lit and busy, though standard urban safety precautions are recommended (Timeless Travel Steps).
Guided Tours and Photographic Spots
- Guided architecture walking tours often feature the Old Colony Building and provide historical context.
- During special events like Open House Chicago, limited interior access is available, and photography may be permitted.
- Self-guided tours are available with downloadable maps from the Chicago Architecture Center.
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
- Harold Washington Library Center: Directly across the street (Chicago Public Library).
- Printers Row: Historic neighborhood with additional early skyscrapers.
- Art Institute of Chicago: A world-class museum a short walk away (Art Institute of Chicago).
- Millennium Park: Home to Cloud Gate and other attractions (Millennium Park).
- Dining & Shopping: Numerous options along Dearborn and State Streets (Choose Chicago Dining).
- Public transit is recommended, as parking is limited and traffic is heavy during peak hours.
Events and Community Engagement
The Old Colony Building occasionally participates in citywide celebrations such as Open House Chicago, providing public access to areas typically closed to non-residents. The building’s location allows residents and visitors to engage with Chicago’s vibrant cultural scene, including theater, music, and dining events throughout the year (Choose Chicago Events).
Preservation and Landmark Status
Designated a Chicago Landmark in 1978, the Old Colony Building is protected for its historic character. Recent restorations have preserved its terra cotta façade and original features while introducing modern infrastructure (Chicago Landmarks).
Accommodation Options Nearby
- Hotels: Palmer House Hilton, Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, and other boutique accommodations are within walking distance (Time Out Chicago).
- Short-term Rentals: Apartments and serviced residences are available for travelers seeking longer stays.
- Booking ahead is advised, especially during peak periods (Timeless Travel Steps).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the Old Colony Building visiting hours?
The exterior is viewable at any time; lobby access is generally available Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM. Residential floors are not open to the public.
Do I need tickets to visit the Old Colony Building?
No tickets are needed for viewing the exterior or lobby. Interior access is limited to special events like Open House Chicago.
Are guided tours available?
Yes, the building is featured on many architectural walking tours. Check Chicago Architecture Center and Open House Chicago for schedules.
Is the Old Colony Building wheelchair accessible?
Yes, sidewalks and entrances are accessible. Elevators are for residents and authorized visitors.
Can I take photos inside the building?
Interior photography is typically restricted; exterior photos are always permitted. Special events may allow interior photography.
Are public restrooms available?
No restrooms inside the building; use facilities at nearby public venues.
Visuals and Media
View high-quality images and virtual tours of the building’s exterior and historic lobby through the Chicago Architecture Center, Classic Chicago Magazine, and Chicago Textures blog.
Internal and External Links
Contact Information
- Address: 407 S. Dearborn Street, Chicago, IL 60605
- Tour Information: See Chicago Architecture Center and Open House Chicago for up-to-date tour and event details.
Recommendations for a Memorable Visit
- Pair your visit with a walking tour of Loop skyscrapers.
- Attend special events like Open House Chicago for rare interior access.
- Bring a camera for the building’s architectural details.
- Explore nearby cultural venues for a richer experience.
Stay Connected and Up to Date
For ongoing updates about visiting the Old Colony Building and other Chicago historical sites, download the Audiala app, follow us on social media, and consult our latest posts for upcoming events and tours. Experience Chicago’s architectural heritage with confidence and ease.
Conclusion
The Old Colony Building is a testament to Chicago’s architectural ingenuity and resilience, reflecting the evolution of skyscraper engineering since the late 19th century. Although interior access is primarily reserved for residents, the building’s remarkable exterior and its location in the heart of the Loop make it a must-see site for architecture, history, and city enthusiasts. Take advantage of guided tours and city events to deepen your experience, and utilize reliable resources like the Chicago Architecture Center and the Audiala app for the latest information. Plan your visit today and discover the enduring legacy of this Chicago landmark.
