Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center, opened in 1897, is a Chicago Landmark building operated by Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. The Cultural Center houses the city's official reception venue, where the Mayor of Chicago has welcomed presidents, royalty, diplomats, and community leaders. It is located in the Loop, across Michigan Avenue from Millennium Park.
Chicago Public Library, Central Building | |
U.S. National Register of Historic Places | |
Chicago Landmark
| |
Chicago Cultural Center | |
| Location | 78 E. Washington St., Chicago, IL, United States |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 41°53′2″N 87°37′30″W |
| Built | 1897 |
| Architect | C. A. Coolidge, Robert C. Spencer |
| NRHP reference No. | 72000449 |
| Significant dates | |
| Added to NRHP | July 31, 1972 |
| Designated CL | November 15, 1976 |
Originally the main library of the Chicago Public Library, the building was converted in 1978 to an arts and culture center at the instigation of Commissioner of Cultural Affairs Lois Weisberg. The city's central library is now located across the Loop in the spacious, postmodern-style Harold Washington Library Center, which opened in 1991.
As the nation's first free municipal cultural center, the Chicago Cultural Center is one of the city's most popular attractions and is considered one of the most comprehensive arts showcases in the United States. Each year, the Chicago Cultural Center features more than 1,000 programs and exhibitions covering a wide range of the performing, visual and literary arts. It also serves as headquarters for the Chicago Children's Choir.