Chase Tower

Chase Tower Milwaukee Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Chase Tower is a defining feature of downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Situated at 111 E. Wisconsin Avenue along the Milwaukee River, this 22-story skyscraper is a testament to the city’s mid-century modern architecture and ongoing urban revitalization. Originally completed in 1961 as Marine Plaza, the building was designed by architect Robert Rasche and has served as a cornerstone of the city’s commercial and cultural life. Today, Chase Tower offers visitors not only a glimpse into Milwaukee’s architectural heritage but also access to a range of modern amenities, public art, and convenient transit connections (Wikiwand; Urban Milwaukee).

Visitors can enjoy a recently renovated, light-filled lobby, seamless integration with Milwaukee’s skywalk network, and proximity to major attractions such as the Milwaukee Riverwalk, Historic Third Ward, and Milwaukee Art Museum. The building’s strategic downtown location, along with enhanced accessibility features, make it an appealing stop for tourists, professionals, and anyone interested in Milwaukee’s vibrant urban scene (Chase Tower MKE; Nomadic Matt).

Whether you’re seeking information on visiting hours, parking options, or recommendations for nearby attractions, this guide provides all the essential details for planning your visit to Chase Tower Milwaukee. For the latest updates on hours and events, consult official resources and local tourism platforms (JPMorgan Chase Milwaukee website).

Chase Tower in Milwaukee cityscape during daytime

Overview and Historical Background
Architectural Significance
Recent Renovations and Modern Amenities
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Parking: Facilities, Rates, and Tips
On-Site Amenities and Public Spaces
Nearby Attractions and Dining
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Visitor Recommendations
Sources and Further Reading

Overview and Historical Background

Chase Tower stands at the intersection of East Wisconsin Avenue and North Water Street, anchoring a key section of downtown Milwaukee. Completed in 1961 and initially called Marine Plaza, it was constructed as the headquarters for Marine Bank (Wikiwand). The building’s development marked a significant chapter in Milwaukee’s postwar urban renewal, symbolizing both progress and architectural ambition.

Robert Rasche, the architect behind Chase Tower, contributed to Milwaukee’s landscape with other notable projects, including the expansion of the Pfister Hotel (Shepherd Express). Over the decades, the tower has evolved, reflecting various corporate mergers and changes in ownership, from Marine Plaza to Bank One Plaza, and finally to Chase Tower.

Architectural Significance

With a height of 288 feet and 22 stories, Chase Tower was among Milwaukee’s tallest buildings at the time of its completion (Wikiwand). It exemplifies the International Style, characterized by clean lines, a sleek dark green façade, and a focus on functionality. The building offers approximately 480,000 square feet of office space and a prominent parking structure, making it a focal point in both the cityscape and business community.

Recent Renovations and Modern Amenities

Renovation Highlights

In 2021, Group RMC acquired Chase Tower and initiated a multi-million dollar renovation, completed in phases through 2024. These upgrades have revitalized the building’s infrastructure, enhanced energy efficiency, and created a more welcoming atmosphere for tenants and visitors (Urban Milwaukee; Chase Tower MKE).

Key Improvements

Lobby Transformation: The two-story lobby now features natural light, high-end finishes, and upgraded security.
Tenant Amenities: New facilities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, modern lounges, and conference rooms.
Infrastructure Upgrades: Electrical, HVAC, and elevator systems have been modernized; the adjacent parking structure now includes EV charging stations.
Connectivity: The building is linked to Milwaukee’s skywalk network and features a new bus rapid transit (BRT) station at the plaza.
Accessibility: Full ADA compliance with elevators, accessible entrances, and sheltered pedestrian routes.
Safety Enhancements: Updated surveillance, card-access security, and ongoing building envelope maintenance.

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Lobby Access: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed on weekends and holidays.
Admission: No tickets or fees are required to access the lobby or public spaces.

Accessibility

ADA Compliance: Elevators, accessible restrooms, and barrier-free entrances are available.
Skywalk Access: The tower connects to the ASQ Center and The Avenue, offering weather-protected routes to nearby attractions (Milwaukee Downtown Skywalk Guide).

Guided Tours

Public Tours: Not regularly available; group visits may be arranged with building management (Chase Tower Amenities).

Transit

Public Transit: Served by multiple bus lines and the Connect 1 BRT at N. Water St. and E. Wisconsin Ave.
Bike Access: Bublr Bikes station nearby; ground-level bike racks for visitors (Nomadic Matt).

Parking: Facilities, Rates, and Tips

Parking Options

Garage: Attached parking garage at 543 N. Water St. with approximately 746 covered stalls and two EV charging stations (Chase Tower Amenities).
Surface Lot: Additional parking at 525 N. Water St. (Trustpilot Parking.com - Surface Lot).

Visitor Experience

Convenience: Central location, direct skywalk access to the tower.
Rates: Hourly and daily rates; overnight parking around $32, hourly up to $20.
Technology: Some issues with QR code scanning have been reported.
Tips:
- Pre-purchase parking and print your pass.
- Confirm in/out privileges if needed.
- Use help phones for assistance.
- Arrive early during peak hours.

On-Site Amenities and Public Spaces

Dining: Dunkin’ Donuts, Grassroots Salad Company, and rotating pop-up restaurants.
Fitness Center: For tenants only.
Meeting Spaces: Modern conference rooms and tenant lounges.
Riverwalk Access: Direct connection to the Milwaukee Riverwalk, ideal for scenic walks and photography (Urban Milwaukee).
Public Art: The lobby and plaza host Sculpture Milwaukee exhibits and seasonal festivals (Urban Milwaukee - Sculpture Milwaukee).
Skywalk System: Sheltered walkways link to shopping and dining at The Avenue and ASQ Center.

Nearby Attractions and Dining

Chase Tower’s downtown location places it within easy reach of Milwaukee’s top attractions:

Milwaukee Riverwalk: Scenic pedestrian path with dining and entertainment (One Day Itinerary).
Historic Third Ward: Arts district with boutiques and trendy eateries.
Third Street Market Hall: A short walk to a vibrant food hall.
Fiserv Forum: Home to sports and major events, about 10 minutes on foot.
Hotels: Nearby options include Hyatt Regency, Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel, and The Pfister Hotel (Chase Tower Location).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Chase Tower Milwaukee visiting hours?
A: The lobby is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Q: Is there an admission fee or ticket required?
A: No, public areas are free to access; no tickets are needed.

Q: Is the building ADA accessible?
A: Yes, all public areas and amenities are fully accessible.

Q: Where can I park when visiting?
A: Use the attached garage at 543 N. Water St. or the nearby surface lot.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Not on a regular basis; contact building management for special arrangements.

Q: Can I bring my bicycle?
A: Yes, there are bike racks at ground level.

Summary and Visitor Recommendations

Chase Tower Milwaukee is a destination that weaves together historical legacy and modern innovation. With its strategic riverfront location, seamless skywalk connections, and proximity to cultural attractions, the tower is accessible and appealing for a variety of visitors. The comprehensive renovations from 2021 to 2024 have transformed the lobby and amenities, creating a welcoming and accessible environment for guests.
Visitors can enjoy the beautifully updated public lobby, participate in community events, and take advantage of convenient parking and transit options. For the best experience, visit during business hours and plan ahead for parking. Stay updated on events and any changes to visitor access by checking the official Chase Tower website.