Reviews of Rookery Building (Tourist Attraction)

Nima Jahedi

Great coffee shop and beautiful lobby.

Charity Watchdog

Do visit, but skip the guided tour -- read up on the details before going.

Liao Yusheng

The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed lobby is open to the public without paying for a tour.

Carin Landgren

Incredible space

Jim Wolfe

Unique architecture that is worth a quick stop.

Bill Wood

A must see & a good place for lunch.

John Bergin

Chicago landmark. Exquisite detail by Burnham and Wright. Worth a quick visit.

HB Winter

The Rookery is a must-see for any fans of the history of architecture. In one place you get to see the genius of both Burnham and Root, and Frank Lloyd Wright. The outside highlights the beginnings of the use of steel and glass in construction, and the inside uses the light from a skylight to illuminate a white marble common area, which is beautiful. Be sure to take a formal tour as they take you to areas unavailable to walk in guests. For example, Burnham and Root's office library. Anyway, I loved the building and the tour, especially as the tour guide was most knowledgeable.

Alice Cooperman

Not to be missed architectural jewel.

Nicole Simoes

Located next to the Chicago board of trade. The architecture doesn't disappoint, Frank Lloyd Wright was a true genius.

Michelle Krueger

Stunning FLW building. If you are lucky enough to take a peek inside when the doors are open, I highly suggest doing so. You can walk in, take a look around and take a few quick pictures and that’s about it but it’s well worth it to see this unique building. They don’t allow professional photography (wedding pictures, etc.) but phone pictures are okay.

Monica Lacy

If you love architecture, history, and Frank Lloyd Wright... this is a place for you. There are guided tours of the famed D-spiral staircase (one of my favorites) and other architectural aspects.

Jeffrey James

The Rookery is a must-see for architecture aficionados. This beautiful building's lobby is a sight to behold and is a wonderful example of craftsmanship and detail that simply no longer exists.

Dan Frosaker

Another fine example of why Chicago is such a cool city to explore on foot. The outside of this building has all sorts of great detail work and it would be easy to check it out and just walk on by, but the central lobby is not too be missed. Go on in and see for yourself. You won't be disappointed.

Tzu Ngai

Iconic building in Chicago. The staircase is world famous

Jeff Hartzer

Definitely go inside to look at architecture

Michael Beling

The interior Lobby architecture is the name of Fame here, otherwise there's a sandwich shop and a bank not much to say, other than the architecture inside

S.P. Dudley

Such a great piece of history. Be sure to sign up for the guided tour and really immerse yourself in how the rookery evolved over time.

Gina Rossi

Definitely in my (unofficial) 'Top Three Favorite Chicago Buildings' list. If you're in the Financial District, you absolutely MUST pop in just to look at the atrium alone! Classic Chicago architecture. Designed by Burnham & Root in 1886 — Light court remodeled by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1905. Twelve stories tall, it is the oldest standing high-rise in Chicago.

Henry Beltran

Love this building

Ryan Gaveske

Really amazing building renovated by Frank Lloyd Wright. Unfortunately I was there over a holiday so want able to take the tour.

AJ Vans

So glad I finally got to see the inside of this historic gem!

Leticia Young

JUST picking someone up

Bryce Clark

One of the coolest buildings I've ever seen. I was lucky my coworker could give me the history of the place, and there are a few displays detailing its history too

Matt Vipond

Cool building with lots of history. Really like how they left one corner inside original so you can see what the inner area looked Louie befire Frank Loyd Wright re-decorated it.

imtiaz ahmad

Amazing display of architectural design. A must see place if you are visiting Chicago and like architecturally splendid structures. The place also offers guided tours. There are usually very few people in the place. This allows you ample time to focus on different parts of the building.

Bernard McDevitt

Must see architectural landmark

Mary J

A beautiful building! Unfortunately only the lobby is accessible to the public, but a guided tour will take you up to the 3rd floor and up the iconic staircase. Tickets can be purchased from the Frank Lloyd Wright gift shop for $10, and it lasts about half an hour.

ceekay ceekay

Great place to visit

Bartosz Bodzon

I didn't book a guided tour, but if you are in the area Rookery Building is definitely worth checking out, due to its unique architecture. You can enter and see lower floor for free.

Matthew Brubaker

An exceptional piece of architectural history and a beautiful part of Chicago’s heyday growth. Look for the plaque explaining the Frank Lloyd Wright addition to Burnham and Root’s original masterpiece.

Jerry Cole

This is one of Chicago's most revered historical buildings. An architectural gem that was originally Daniel Burnham's base of operations. The lobby is not to be missed, but only open during the work week.

Ibrahim Abouzeid

Great place to visit and to take photos. Must visit for archeticture and photography lovers

Stuart Nottingham

This building is amazing to look at. It's a shame that on the day I wanted to see the lobby, it was closed. Pretty cool anyways, hope to see it next time.

Anjali Kant

Great place

scarlett san

Very beautiful building by Burham and renovated by Frank Lloyd Wright

Deborah Whitehead

The brilliant and magnificent design of the building both inside and out... "Remember the song by The Bee Gees?

Andrew Terry

Historic landmark if visiting Chicago. Look for the street signs in the brickwork.

Eric Moore

When visiting, you are only allowed in the main lobby. You have to pay for the tour to see the true beauty. I understand but a bit disappointing.

Vicki McGlinsey

I wish we would have had more time on the tour to spend in this building. It was outstandingly beautiful. You walk in the front door and it's like stepping back in time. So much attention to detail. My husband and I were both absolutely Blown Away. Definitely intend on going back next time we're in Chicago sightseeing. A must-visit for any trip if you love architecture and beauty

Brittani Gordon

Love this place ans the Frank Lloyd Wright architecture!

Brian Clement

A very interesting bit of Chicago history from the 1890's

Timo Ancan

A big display of art and delightment to anyone's eyes in a small two stories room. One of the earliest prides of Chicago that remains as a hidden jewel of the city.

Hillary

Ah, the Rookery...such a Chicago gem! I love showing off this building every week on my walking tours. Thank you to the security and staff at the Rookery for always making Inside Chicago Walking Tours feel so welcome!

Mark Peppler

Amazing building inside, you would never imagine what the inside looks like by just walking past outside.

Jeff W

Great architecture.

Barb Martens

My first office job was here in 1963

Brenda Ott

gorgeous sad closed on weekends

Donald Fernandes

Need to buy tickets to get to the stairs!!

Alex I

Go inside, take a few nice pictures and leave. Should be in and out within 10 minutes

Mike

Cool place.

Mitchel Porter

So interesting

Ken Royal

Love this building. I highly recommend the tour.

I. Jr. J.

Came here to do a pick up. Very nice building. Clean despite the snow everywhere outside. Love the architecture and design of this place.

Charles Malachee

You just have to visit to see .

Shina Gee

The building architecture is a astounding tapestry of a old land mart in Chicago history

Harley Dude

What an amazing place! Drove from Indiana to interview with a company located in this building. Was extremely impressed!

Lucian Smith

I'm sure it's great but only got to see the lobby.

Arpad Petrass

Well Worth the short tour. If you love Frank Lloyd Wrights Architecture you will love this brief tour of the building that discusses the origins of the original build and Wrights remodel over it. It is only open for viewing from the lobby since the upper decks are for offices . The tour allows you to go up their famous staircase.

Heather Hunt

Good place to check out a Frank Lloyd Wright gem hidden in downtown Chicago.

Savannah Harrington

I currently work in this building. It’s well known for its history and architectural beauty. However, it’s also an awesome place to work! Rozelle, the elevator gal, is so sweet. She knows many employees names, if she sees me carrying a lot she’ll have an elevator ready for me. The Rookery staff, including Nicole, are so helpful and always go above and beyond for tenants. A central location close to great places.

James Murray

No picture does this space justice. Absolutely beautiful. The main lobby is accessible, but not the upper levels. Would have loved to walk up the incredible staircase.

Max Campbell

Neat building, inside. I couldn't tour it beyond the ground floor due to restricted hours.

Nikos Dzholas

Wow, that was amazing, I hope to get here one more time but when here will bee less people.

Eric McGraw

Beautiful building.

Kraii Studios

A true historic gem! This Frank Loyd Right building is a muat-see for every architecture enthusiast. You cannot simply walk into this building by yourself. If you want to be able to go up the iconic stairs, you must book the official guided tour. You can however walk into the foyer, just not up the stairs.

Diego Fdez. Torres

A must see in Chicago. The interior stairs are amazing. And the details in the columns, redesign by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, a treasure. Don’t miss the elevator doors. Otis Elevators state of art

Jaime V

The most beautiful Lobby in Chicago!

Mark Hampton

Love the history

Jebrone Love Kitten

It's an old building, bland and a HUGE waste of space in the middle. Only thing redeeming it is the updated elevators. It's got potbelly and an over priced glasses shop.

Samuel Waggoner

Such an unexpected treasure awaits in this brown, unassuming building. The rookery has amazing history! They had to paint the glass ceilings black during war to avoid bombing, Frank Lloyd Wright assisted with the beautification of this building post war. The gold plated paneling installed over the original brown everything is beautifully stunning. People get married here, and I certainly see why. I'm so glad to have visited this building as opposed to doing an architectural boat tour.

Kitty G

Beautiful, historic building has many interesting appointments and gorgeous light court. Tours every weekday.

pakman

Went for open house Chicago for the architecture

魚丸

Book the building tour if you have time.

Tony De Jesus

Didn't realize I was there.

irwin levinstein

This is a hidden gem. We stopped in because the exterior was so unusual. Much of historical and architectural interest. Built shortly after the great chicago fire (Mrs oleary's

Paul Samford

Fun to take a step inside and see this amazing building.

Rob Merrilees

Make sure to see Daniel Burnham’s Personal library if possible

Ludo Van Raemdonck

Very impressive, a pity visitors are limited to the lobby...

Emma Langham

Beautiful building, definitely one of my favourites in Chicago. You can explore the lobby for free or take a 30 minute tour of the 2nd level from the Frank Lloyd Wright gift shop.

Améya Ramdurgkar

An absolute bliss for the amateur indoor photographer. Make sure to call up before to ensure the guided tours are available.

Antonio Iaffaldano

Historic. You can book a tour in the lobby.

Andy Simmons

Beautiful building

Ed Hutter

Very nice architecture and an amazingly quiet place in a very busy city.

Bob GH

Worked in this building for 5 years. One of the most impressive lobies in Chicago

Alan Burstein

Yay

Amy Tropp

If you a fan of architecture, Chicago history, Root, Wright, granite or steel, this is a must see. The rookery is in a key location, and the oldest tall building in Chicago. It weighs a lot, but its steel and cement floating foundation has barely settled, in spite of the fact that it was originally built on a marsh. At one time this building provided the most inspiring, and light filled views in Chicago. There is also a nice little gift shop.

Sharyn Meffin

Amazing building inside. Hard to get a sense of it outside at present except for the brown sandstone as there are major Reno's going on. We went there as the meeting point for an architecture's tour of FL Wrights buildings. Highly recommend a visit and the tour.

Sue Tomlinson

I once delivered flowers to the Rookery and was immediately enamoured with the beauty and history of this architectural masterpiece

Vincent Cooper

Great space for and event

Kirill Altunin

Beautiful building but you can't pass further than hall

Joseph K Bagel

Here's the upshot: You must like architecture. The building was done in 1888 by Burnham and Root, two very famous architects. It served as their offices. The building has both a steel frame and load bearing walls. In 1905, the lobby was redesigned by Frank Lloyd Wright, yet another very famous architect. It is worth seeing. Please do that.

Bruce Dixon

Good basic food at reasonable prices. Friendly staff.

Diane Ringenberg

What an excellent tour! I want to go to Oak Park on my next trip. Once I have mastered the L Train. What wonderful building there are in Chicago. Once there I went into several other buildings on my way back to the hotel. Wright was creative in his time. Love his work.

Katie Galvin

A Chicago architecture classic. A must see if you're into architecture. Has a little Burnham, a little FL Wright; it's great

Dylan Price

One of the historic first skyscrapers in Chicago. The lobby area is a wonder of archeticture. Free any time to enter.

CJDubzick - Topic

Stunning Building... I always just come by to look. I don't even go to the shops/banks..

john schaffer

Very nice and well designed building. Excellent retail spots. Go check it out!

Adrienne Kolb

Beautiful FLW lobby/atrium! Must see to appreciate. Lovely and serene.

Rebekah Chikosi

Enjoyed our visit

Tara Passini

The guided tour was incredibly informative and well worth the cost. The interior of the Rookery is gorgeous, too.

Victor Manuel

When I read Devil in the white city, I heard about this building. It is impressing and so elegant! I loved it! OMG!!! Super amazing architecture. What catches my attention is the architecture of this place. Some pictures are uploaded. Really recommend this place if you love architecture.

Jay Brockway

The Rookery is a beautiful architectural masterpiece and is impeccably maintained. The interior lobby's glass ceiling creates a bright open atmosphere and the white marble walls with gold patterns carved in them reflect the light all around dispelling shadows. Individually placed tiny tile pieces compose the floors mosaics pattern adding color to the room. A second story stair case projects over the lobby before disappearing above the glass ceiling.

Narcisa Bacau

The architecture is just stunning.

Werner Steinegger

Very interesting. Our tour-guide was so great! Many information about the building and the architect.

Christopher H Kraska

Wish I had time for a tour, great lobby

Joanne Clifford

Beautiful Frank lloyd wright art deco genius

Jo Ellen Burkholder

Missed the tour, but the light court was still a beautiful place to hang out.

Irwin Levinstein

A great bit of history and interesting architecture

David Fertig

I work in the building. It has nice clean public amenities. The inside atrium is great so all offices have natural light. The staff have been very friendly.

Andrew Baxter

This is Classic Frank lloyd wright. Just stunning.

Marco Fantin

Nice building but unfortunately not open for visitors. Had too peek through the windows

Gabi Ladowski

A gorgeous historic building by Rook & Lloyd Wright architects. A must see.

Barry H

Nice piece of Chicago history.

Paulino Montes-Solla

Historic office building located into The Loop de Chicago (209 S LaSalle Str.). The building has an amazing skylight using prodigiously the light and ornamentation to serve as the focal point for the entire building, and provide daylight to interior offices.

Samuel Vaughn

Lovely building

Adrian Zdanowski

Beautiful inside and out. If you can I recommend taking the tours to learn more about the history!

Andrew Plock

A quick look at a lobby with a huge amount of history. Great to see different decades of style and tastes that have come together over the years, especially for those into anything Frank Lloyd Wright adjacent. If you're in Chicago to see all of it's wonderful structures and architecture, it's an easy spot to hit.

DENNIS JOHN

Good space for events such as weddings. Great setting for photos

Nicole Jenkins

Really nice staff, beautiful building but the bathrooms are really hard to find.

Lisa Frederick

Absolutely beautiful display of architecture that was redone by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Manuel Ocana

The courtyard is a Must. Do not reserve tours. You can visit it because it is public because of the shops inside. Tell the guard you are going to shopping inside.

Danley T

We got lucky to be there when no one else was in the building (except a security officer). Went on a Saturday morning about 10:30am. Gorgeous design and construction, what can I say? Security officer was super nice - offered a brochure and answered some of our basic questions.

Karen Morrissette

the lobby and interior of the building is so beautiful

Jamie Andresen

Simply lovely

Tina Alhofy

Beautiful architecture

Kelli Dudley

Terrible. I struggled in for a meeting feeling under the weather. I have a disability and was particularly exhausted. Was yelled at by a doorman for resting against a staircase area. Reprehensible bigots just begging to be sued.

Mike Goldberg

Beautiful building

Lt Zach Martin

Top End only,, beautiful building..

Lennert Onkelinx

Beautiful ironwork architecture

Mitchell Sadus

Nice rehab

Route 45

Nice 30 minute guided tour. The building seems deceiving from the outside which is dark red, but inside it's bright and expansive. The 19th century's history is interesting and apparently iit wasn't too many years later (1905) when it was influenced (updated) by FLW with lots of windows on the ceiling and white and gold marble to reflect light.

Shubham Jain

Good looking building, I would say just roam around without taking a tour

Patricia Du Charme

Stunning Historic Chicago architecture

Kenneth Kasten

Super cool place. The interiors are a great example of Lloyd's work. A must to architects. Too bad you can't go upstairs.

Tricia Tavas

Amazing attention to detail. Ornate & lovely!

Iliya Petrow

Truly a hidden gem in the city of Chicago. It has the most amazing spiral staircase I’ve ever seen. Chances are, you’ve seen a picture of them at some point. I haven’t done the tour, but it is on my to do list in Chicago. It’s hard to get in if you’re simply trying to get a look at the stairs. But if you’re inconspicuous about it, no one will say anything. If anything, sign up for the tour!

Joe Wierzbicki

My favorite indoor place in the loop

Tyler Hanyzewski

The Rookery is an amazing building to visit. I just wish it was more accessible.

Walter Levy

An architectural pilgrimage and World Heritage site, combining the original vision of two of America's most influential architects - Burham and Root, and Frank Lloyd Wright. Do not miss this gem!

Nicole Dabros

Beautiful building!

shawn coennen

The first "skyscraper" in Chicago.. Frank Lloyd Wright designed and inspired.. If your in to architecture this place is amazing!

Milton Toll

Beautiful building, incredible details.

Elizabeth DeZouche

A "must see" for any Chicago traveler. This historic building houses a roof designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and has a gift shop inside. The roof was covered in tar and used for parking at one point but has now been fully restored.

Sy Guzman

Take a tour of the Rookery by contacting the Chicago Architecture Foundation's website. A place to visit for Frank Lloyd Wright and Sullivan fans. Wear comfortable shoes. Be sure to visit the library on the 11th floor of the Rookery for additional historical facts.

Francisco O

Nice historical building with a very unique lobby.

SHINPLEST

Visiters are not allowed to go stairs that was all I can see

Mike Spendlove

Highly recommend visiting this historic first skyscraper of Chicago, built soon after the fire. If possible do the tours around lunchtime run by the Frank Lloyd Wright Trustn to see the upper staircase.