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 Latino Film Festival

Apr 16 – Apr 27

The 42nd annual Chicago Latino Film Festival represents the great diversity of themes and genres of Latino filmmaking from around the world.

Read more about Chicago Latino Film Festival

Chicago Cabaret Week

Citywide •  May 08 – May 16

Join us for an unforgettable week of music and performances that celebrate the spirit of Chicago!

Read more about Chicago Cabaret Week

Sueños Music Festival

Grant Park  •  May 23 – May 24

We invite you to Grant Park this May to experience all-new multi-day Latin music festival, Sueños. World-class production and a curated experience that will leave you…

Read more about Sueños Music Festival

You might also be interested...

Bronzeville Walk of Fame

Chicago

Civil rights activist Ida B. Wells, poet Gwendolyn Brooks, and astronaut Robert H. Lawrence Jr. are among over 100 notable neighborhood residents honored for their lasting…

Read more about Bronzeville Walk of Fame

Martin Luther King, Jr. Living Memorial

Chicago

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Living Memorial was dedicated on August 5, 2016 to mark the fiftieth anniversary of Dr. King’s historic march through Marquette Park.

Read more about Martin Luther King, Jr. Living Memorial

MetroWalkz Self-Guided Walking Tours

Chicago

Read more about MetroWalkz Self-Guided Walking Tours

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

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