About Loop
Commerce, culture and City Hall Politics coalesce and collide downtown in the Loop, where the movers and shakers make Chicago "the City that works." The Loop derives its name from the convergence within the area of all modes of public transportation, which form a large loop around the central business district.
During the 1960's and 1970's, the Loop lost most of its luster and allure and was known for little else other than as a workplace. Today, a major revitalization effort begun nearly 20 years ago is clearly evident. There is a fantastic theater district with beautifully restored and ornate playhouses that enjoy major theatrical productions. In addition, State Street and Michigan Avenue, once premier shopping districts, are now enjoying a rebirth. Restaurants and Specialty shops are plentiful, and the Loop has finally shed its reputation as the place not to be after dark.
The Loop contains several Chicago landmarks, such as Chicago City Hall, the Marshall Fields Department Store, designed a century ago by famed architect Daniel Burnham, Carson Pirie Scott Department Store, the cast iron adorned building designed by Louis Sullivan, and the Sears Tower, America's tallest building and the world's second tallest building. Other highlights include the Art Institute, Orchestra Hall, the Palmer House Hotel and the Fine Arts Theater.
The housing in the Loop, although limited consists solely of highrise apartment rental building and highrise condominiums.
