Parking!

Only 3 weeks until the bestest wedding party ever! We hope you are all getting the logistics sorted out for your arrival and transportation around Chicago and to the soiree. If you have any questions, be sure to email or call Tim or Katy!

In the meantime, we wanted to offer some additional Chicago transportation insight...

Conveniently, every paved method of ingress to the city from the 'burbs is under-construction. Please build in some extra travel time if you are planning to come into the city via automobile.

While we certainly do not highly condone vehicular travel from the suburbs, we understand it is unavoidable in some cases. Please see below for a host of parking options very near The Rookery. We recommend the Sears Tower garage at West Adams & South Wells (shown in pink on the map).

But, why trifle with road rage at all? Trains are a far more sophisticated form of travel and both the suburban Metra system and the city's elevated "El" train have stations a hope, skip and a jump away from the The Rookery. You can check Metra's suburban train schedules here and the El train schedule here (FYI, Quincy or Washington Street stations on the Purple line are your best bet).

Location, Location, Location

After minimal debate, RTT and I decided that it seemed logical we get married in Chicago. I grew up in the area, and, well, er, I suppose that was the only reason.

But, either way, Chicago is a fantastic city; thick with history, caked in yummy urban legends and teeming with impressive buildings from internationally famous architects. We wanted to choose a reception spot that not only honored the "city of big shoulders" but was also just a great place to have a party!

The resulting decision was The Rookery.

A Historic Landmark The Rookery is the oldest high rise building still standing in Chicago. Completed in 1888 by the noted firm of Burnham and Root (as in Daniel Burnham, who also designed the Flatiron building in New York and Union Station in Washington D.C.) and standing 11 stories tall, it was, at the time, the tallest skyscraper in the world. The lobby was remodeled in 1905 by the acclaimed Frank Lloyd Wright, who added some complementary Prairie style elements.

"The interior is centered by a spectacular light court, innovative for its time, which allows light to saturate the space. Intricate ironwork, mosaic flooring, dramatic marble, and a magnificent spiral staircase complete the lobby."

The building stands on the site of the former, temporary City Hall, designated as such when the Fire of 1871 wiped out the original location. A favorite place for nesting birds and crooked politicians, the spot became known as “The Rookery,” despite efforts to give the new building a more noble name.

The Rookery stands today as an example of Chicago’s architectural brilliance and innovation with a timeless elegance.

You will have to come and see this grand building and lavish lobby for yourself when we celebrate our marriage with friends on May 10, 2008!