A hulking building that looks like an Italian Renaissance fortress, Chicago’s main public library is the largest in the world, and even has its own El stop. Named for the city’s first and only African-American mayor, who died of a heart attack in 1987 at the beginning of his second term in office, the building fills an entire city block at State Street and Congress Parkway. The interior design has been criticized for feeling cold and impersonal (you have to go up a few floors before you even see any books), but the stunning, 52-foot glass-domed Winter Garden on the top floor, with its terrazzo and marble floors and giant glass dome, is worth a visit. On the second floor is another treasure: the vast Thomas Hughes Children’s Library, which makes an excellent resting spot for families traveling with kids. The library also offers an interesting array of events and art exhibitions that are worth checking out. A 385-seat auditorium is the setting for a unique mix of dance and music performances, author talks, and children’s programs, and visitors can stop by the third-floor Computer Commons, which has about 75 terminals available for public use, to check email. The high-tech Maker Lab offers free workshops. Allow a half hour.
Chicago› Attraction
Chicago Public Library/Harold Washington Library Center
400 S State St., Chicago, IL 60605
Our Rating
Hours
Mon–Thurs 9am–9pm; Fri–Sat 9am–5pm; Sun 1–5pm
Transportation
Subway/El: Red Line to Jackson; Brown, Pink, Orange, or Purple to Harold Washington Library
Phone
312/747-4300
Prices
Free admission
Web site
Chicago Public Library/Harold Washington Library Center
Other
Closed major holidays

Map
400 S State St. Chicago IL 60605 ChicagoNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.