Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

Shedd Aquarium

Fort Dearborn

sw corner michigan avenue and
wacker drive, Chicago, IL 60601

Historic Sites

Built in 1803, Fort Dearborn marked Chicago’s origins as a U.S. military outpost and settlement hub. Though long gone, it’s commemorated by sidewalk markers and a star on Chicago’s flag.

Built in 1803 at the mouth of the Chicago River, Fort Dearborn was the U.S. Army’s westernmost outpost and the first major federal investment in the region. Surrounded by early settlers and traders, it marked the arrival of Europeans in Native American land, sparking periodic conflict. Burned during the War of 1812 and rebuilt in 1816, it was decommissioned in 1840. Today, its location is honored by sidewalk markers and a star on the Chicago flag. Illinois 250

How to find us?

Back to Listings

What's happening nearby...

Chicago Gospel Music Festival

Jul 24 – Jul 25

Celebrating the great influence of the music genre born in this city more than 80 years ago, the Chicago Gospel Music Festival will present the top…

Read more about Chicago Gospel Music Festival

Lollapalooza

Grant Park •  Jul 30 – Aug 02

Each year at Lollapalooza, some of the top names in alternative, hip hop, punk and pop join more than 170 bands and musicians in Grant Park…

Read more about Lollapalooza

Bud Billiken® Parade

Aug 08

The Bud Billiken® Parade is more than a procession of bands and floats marching down King Drive, it’s a commemoration of our past and a celebration…

Read more about Bud Billiken® Parade

You might also be interested...

The Warehouse Landmark Site

Chicago

The former 1977-era Warehouse nightclub, now a designated historical landmark, is celebrated as the birthplace of House music, where legendary DJ Frankie Knuckles helped launch a…

Read more about The Warehouse Landmark Site

The Pullman State Historic Site - The Factory Complex

Chicago

The Pullman State Historic Site’s Factory Complex showcases the original industrial buildings where Pullman railcars were built, offering insight into America’s labor history, innovation, and the…

Read more about The Pullman State Historic Site - The Factory Complex

Chicago Stock Exchange

Chicago

Read more about Chicago Stock Exchange

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.