Chicago’s Must-See Sights: Part 2

On April 25, we started a series of Chicago’s must-see sights to highlight a few of our favorite attractions and historical landmarks. Chicago is home to many significant historical sites that have created the rich traditions among the city and its people. Attending NECA 2014 Chicago will give you the opportunity to see some of the places that make this unique city a place to remember.

Next up in our Chi-Town cityclusive series of must-see sights, the Chicago Theater.

Opening on October 26,1921 national landmark, the Chicago Theater is one of the city’s most popular historical sites, and most recognized. Nicknamed “the Wonder Theater of the World” when it opened, the French Baroque style theater flaunts many decorative features based on popular historical landmarks. The entire building is a work of art featuring a miniature replica of the Paris’ Arc de Triomphe, the lobby that’s modeled after Royal Chapel at Versailles and the grand staircase that leads you to balconies for on-lookers modeled after the Paris Opera House. But, perhaps the most recognized and famous aspect of this building is it’s six-story high sign that spells out “C-H-I-C-A-G-O” over State Street.

Built by theater owners Barney and Abe Balaban and Sam and Morris Katz in 1921, it quickly became the flagship of the Balaban and Katz theater chain. Seven stories high and seating 3,600 visitors, when it opened the theater featured big-time entertainment acts from Duke Ellington to Benny Goodman, and in 1933 was featured in Chicago’s World Fair.

May years after it’s heyday, in 1986 the Chicago Theatre Restoration Association realized the theater brought irreplaceable historical significance and culture to the city and with the help of the city of Chicago decided to purchase and save the theater and after a multi-million dollar renovation the theater reopened on September 10, 1986, allowing future generations to enjoy this Chicago landmark.

Missed the first Must-See Sights Special on Wrigley Field? Check it out now >