The National Building

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Can you believe that this grand building, The National Building, started as the Commercial National Bank Building? Talk about a change of pace! In 1907, the building was completed. You know, it was designed by the renowned firm D.H. Burnham & Company who also built, among others, the Flatiron Building in New York City. It’s the oldest surviving building in the Loop designed by that firm. It’s a big deal, you know. The bank that was housed here was a major player after the National Banking Act of 1863 was passed. The building itself is one of the most prominent and enduring examples of the Classical Revival style. The design was inspired by the iconic buildings of ancient Rome and Greece with its smooth facade, decorative columns, and intricate carvings. Standing majestic in the heart of Chicago, it’s a beautiful building. Can you imagine, from a bank to a power station. After the bank merged with the Continental National Bank, the building was renamed to the Edison Building and became the headquarters of Commonwealth Edison in 1912. For a whopping fifty-seven years, the building housed the energy company. The National Building also served as the headquarters of Commonwealth Edison until the company moved into a new skyscraper in 1969. The building was redesigned and renovated in 2020. The building has one more moniker, The National Chicago and stands 374 feet tall with 20 floors. Today, this historic gem houses offices and a vibrant food hall filled with diverse culinary options, all under one roof. It’s a true showcase of Chicago’s blend of history and modern-day dynamism. It’s pretty cool, standing here, right?

The story of The National Building in Chicago is just one of many fascinating insights you can discover with Explory. To experience the city beyond its surface, you need more than just a map – you need a smart guide that reveals the background, the culture, and the character of each place. With Explory’s city guide, you can dive deeper into Chicago and transform your visit into a unique city tour filled with stories that bring history and everyday life to light. Explory connects you with Chicago in a new way. Our guide doesn’t just show you where to go – it enriches your journey with context and atmosphere. Through carefully designed routes and storytelling, you’ll uncover hidden gems and unexpected highlights that even locals might miss. The audio guide makes the city come alive, allowing you to listen while you walk and explore at your own pace. Our city guide is ideal for travelers who want more than sightseeing. Whether your interest is culture, architecture, or local traditions, Explory enables authentic exploration. Each city tour is flexible and intuitive, helping you experience Chicago with freedom while still being guided by expert knowledge. By combining narrative, navigation, and discovery, Explory ensures your trip becomes an adventure filled with hidden gems and lasting impressions. Take the next step and download the Explory App today. Inside, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories to explore. Whether you’re searching for a reliable guide, want to try an immersive audio guide, or plan a memorable city tour, Explory is your all-in-one companion. Begin your journey now and uncover the true essence of Chicago – only with Explory.

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