Ida Crown Natatorium

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Imagine splashing in a pool while looking out at the Chicago skyline. The Ida Crown Natatorium is special. It was named after the Crown family. They were residents of the Eckhart Park neighborhood in the 1890s. The building was designed by Stanley Engineering Company. The architects were Marvin Werner and Dimitri Nesterenko. Nesterenko created the dramatic roof canopy. It looks like a wave of concrete about to crash onto the shore of Chicago Avenue. This was the architect’s vision in 1961, a way to blend interior and exterior spaces and create the feeling of an outdoor pool, even when inside. The massive concrete structure was poured in a single day. The natatorium is one of two in the city. It was dedicated by Mayor Richard J. Daley himself in 1961. Today, the Ida Crown Natatorium continues to be a place of recreation and exercise for generations of Chicagoans. It’s hard to tell now but the building was meant to be used year round. The architect designed the natatorium at 1360-1370 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago with large glass panels. In the summer, these panels slide aside to open up the building and provide direct access to a 40 foot deep sun deck. So, you can soak up the sun and enjoy the skyline while swimming.

The story of Ida Crown Natatorium 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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