Chicago Theatre - Entertainment Palace

Stop on Historic Chicago Loop Walking Tour, a free self-guided tour.

Continue north to 175 North State Street to see the Chicago Theatre's iconic vertical sign, one of the city's most photographed landmarks. Built in 1921 by architects Rapp & Rapp, this 3,600-seat movie palace represents the golden age of entertainment. The exterior features a miniature replica of Paris's Arc de Triomphe. The six-story lobby, modeled after the Royal Chapel at Versailles, features a grand staircase, crystal chandeliers, marble columns, and ornate plasterwork. The auditorium ceiling depicts clouds and sky creating an outdoor effect. The theatre opened as a deluxe movie palace showing films with live orchestra accompaniment. It later hosted vaudeville, concerts, and stage productions. The vertical Chicago sign, erected in 1952, became an instantly recognizable symbol appearing in countless movies and TV shows. The theatre fell into disrepair in the 1970s but was saved from demolition and carefully restored in 1986. It reopened as a venue for concerts, comedy shows, and special events. The Chicago Theatre demonstrates the opulence of 1920s entertainment architecture when movies were shown in palatial settings. The building's designation as a Chicago Landmark ensures this architectural gem will continue entertaining audiences for generations.