What the Place Is
In Chicago’s Near North Side, Merchandise Mart Station is a CTA transit hub and a direct gateway to the Merchandise Mart. The elevated station serves the Brown and Purple Lines and is integrated into the building, an Art Deco landmark completed in 1930. Once the world’s largest building by floor area, the Mart remains part of Chicago’s commercial and architectural landscape (architecture.org).
The station’s main entrance is on the Mart’s second floor, adjoining retail and dining spaces such as the “Shops at The Mart.” The station serves thousands of commuters and visitors daily.
History
The Site and the Merchandise Mart
The site near Wolf Point was originally a Native American trading post and later developed into an urban trading hub (architecture.org). In the early 20th century, Marshall Field & Co. acquired land at the branches of the Chicago River to create a centralized wholesale center for the architectural and interior design trades (optima.inc).
Constructed between 1928 and 1930, the Merchandise Mart became the world’s largest building by floor area (wikipedia.org). Commissioned by Marshall Field & Co. and opened in 1930, it consolidated wholesale showrooms and symbolized Chicago’s commercial power. It now houses over 3 million square feet of office and showroom space and hosts events such as Art on the MART, which transforms the building’s façade into a digital art canvas (K&B Galleries).
Station History and Design
Transit service at this location predates the current ‘L’ station. The Northwestern Elevated Railroad’s Kinzie Station opened in 1900 and closed in 1921. A dedicated station was constructed to serve the Mart’s tenants and visitors when the building opened. Merchandise Mart Station opened on December 5, 1930, as part of the CTA ‘L’ system and was uniquely integrated into the Mart’s second floor (chicago-l.org).
The Mart was designed by Graham, Anderson, Probst & White and is a monumental example of Art Deco architecture (buildingsdb.com). Its construction used 29 million bricks, 380 miles of wiring, and 60,000 tons of steel (wikipedia.org). The original station’s elevated steel construction and direct access to the building complemented the scale of the project.
A major station renovation in 1987 introduced a steel-and-glass design, a full-length canopy, and a central skylight (chicago-l.org). Elevators and an overhead bridge made the station fully ADA-compliant (wikipedia.org); the upgrades also allowed it to accommodate eight-car trains.
What to See and Do
- The Merchandise Mart Explore its Art Deco exterior, shops, dining, and design showrooms.
- Art on the MART The building’s façade becomes a digital art canvas during projections, which are free to the public and typically take place in the evenings. Check the schedule for details (Enjoy Illinois).
- Architectural tours Guided tours are available on select days through the Merchandise Mart website, with information about the building’s history and design. Tours also are available through local providers.
- Chicago Riverwalk Visit the riverfront promenade for dining, boat tours, and city views.
- Wolf Point See the site associated with Chicago’s early development.
Practical Visiting Information
Location and Access
Merchandise Mart Station is at 350 North Wells Street, adjacent to the Merchandise Mart (architecture.org). It has two side platforms and an accessible main entrance with stairs, escalators, and elevators. Bilingual signage and real-time arrival displays help with navigation.
The station is served by the CTA Brown and Purple Lines. Transfers to other lines are available at nearby Loop stations. Bike racks and Divvy stations are nearby (mmart.com). Several parking garages are within four blocks; parking costs are high, and public transit is recommended.
Hours, Admission, and Tickets
- Station Merchandise Mart Station operates daily, typically from early morning until around midnight, in line with CTA ‘L’ schedules. Check the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) for schedules.
- Merchandise Mart Building hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM. Some showrooms and boutiques may have limited weekend hours.
- Admission General access to the building is free. Trade shows, special exhibitions, and other special events may require tickets.
- CTA fares Buy or reload Ventra cards at vending machines, through the Ventra app, or with mobile payment such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. Single-ride, daily, and monthly passes are available. As of July 2025, a single ride is $2.50 and a 1-day pass is $5 (CTA Fares). Unlimited-ride passes for tourists are also available (GoCity Chicago).
Accessibility and Facilities
The station is ADA-compliant, with elevators, tactile platform edging, and audible announcements. It has covered seating and wind protection on both platforms. Restrooms are not available in the station, but accessible facilities are available in the Merchandise Mart during business hours. Station security features include surveillance, call boxes, and CTA staff presence.
Tips
Weekday peak periods are given as 7–9 AM and 4–6 PM, and also as 7–9:30 AM and 4–6:30 PM. Mid-mornings and early afternoons are recommended for a quieter visit. Allow extra time during major events such as Art on the MART (Secret Chicago).
The station is near 350 North and 500 West in Chicago’s grid system; heading east leads toward Lake Michigan (Time Out Chicago). Clear bilingual signs and digital displays aid navigation. Remain aware of your surroundings, especially during peak times.
For visit planning, check current schedules and event listings, use public transit, and explore the Mart’s history and current offerings. The Audiala app is promoted for real-time updates, exclusive content, and guided tour information; its social media shares Chicago news, tips, and event highlights.
Nearby Places
- Chicago Riverwalk A scenic promenade with dining, boat tours, and city views.
- Wolf Point A historical site significant to Chicago’s early development.
- Architectural tours Many begin near the Merchandise Mart and explore Chicago architecture.
- Nearby public art Murals and sculptures can be found in the area.
- River North Dining and shopping are a short walk away.
The Merchandise Mart’s façade and the nearby river views are recommended photography spots.
FAQ
What are the Merchandise Mart’s visiting hours?
Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM. Confirm hours for special events; some showrooms and boutiques may have limited weekend hours.
Is admission free?
General access is free. Some events may require tickets.
Are the station and the Mart accessible?
Both are described as fully ADA-compliant, with elevators; assistance is available.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Tours are available through local providers and the Mart’s website.
How do I purchase CTA tickets?
Use Ventra cards from vending machines or the Ventra app, or pay with mobile payment.
Are there dining options?
Yes. The Mart has a range of eateries and coffee shops.
