The Magnificent Mile

Often referred to as the Magnificent Mile, North Michigan Avenue is capped at its southern end with two well-known Chicago landmarks: the Wrigley Building and the Tribune Tower, both seen here. Completed in 1921, The Wrigley Building's terra-cotta facade is actually composed of six different shades of tiles, ranging from creamy white at the bottom to blue-white at the top, resulting in an increase of brightness as the building rises. Not to be outdone, the Chicago Tribune announced an international design competitition in 1923 for its new home, to be located across the street from the Wrigley Building. The winning entry, a neo-Gothic tower, is rich with complex detail and features historic stones from famous buildings worldwide that are embedded and identified in the lower part of the building. The stunning architecture of these two Chicago favorites embodied the exciting Roaring Twenties during which they were built, combining both traditional dignity and modern energy.