Exploring Abandoned and Active Art Deco Gemstones Near Chicago, Illinois

Art Deco architecture, with its distinctive stylization and grandeur, is an enduring feature of many cities in the United States. Chicago, Illinois, stands out among these for its rich collection of Art Deco landmarks. From abandoned buildings to functional and restored structures, this style is preserved and celebrated across the region. In this article, we will explore a selection of notable Art Deco buildings near Chicago, Illinois, that are worth visiting.

1. Paramount Theater - Aurora, Illinois

The Paramount Theater in Aurora, Illinois, is a prime example of early Art Deco architecture. Opening in 1931, the theater operated continuously until 1976. Today, it has been revitalized and serves as a versatile venue hosting theatrical performances and movie screenings.

Source: Art Deco Illinois: A Short Tour of the Architectural Wonders Found All Across The Prairie State - Atlas Obscura

2. Boone County Community Building Complex - Belvedere, Illinois

This complex in Belvedere, Illinois, showcases a blend of architectural styles. The main building, dating back to 1893, features Classical Revival architecture, while the Art Deco auditorium was built in the 1930s. Originally a high school, the complex has been repurposed for various community events.

Source: Art Deco Illinois: A Short Tour of the Architectural Wonders Found All Across The Prairie State - Atlas Obscura

3. National Guard Buildings - Multiple Cities

Various cities in Illinois, including Cairo, Champaign, Delavan, Pontiac, Rockford, and Urbana, have National Guard armories with Art Deco designs. Constructed during the Great Depression as part of the WPA projects, these armories stand as testament to this period's architectural efforts.

Source: Art Deco Illinois: A Short Tour of the Architectural Wonders Found All Across The Prairie State - Atlas Obscura

4. Campana Building - Batavia, Illinois

Built in 1936, the Campana Building in Batavia, Illinois, was designed to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal, featuring Art Deco elements. Today, the building houses a costume rental facility, serving as a unique landmark in the community.

Source: Art Deco Illinois: A Short Tour of the Architectural Wonders Found All Across The Prairie State - Atlas Obscura

5. Elgin Tower Building - Elgin, Illinois

The Elgin Tower Building, completed in 1929, stands out in Elgin's otherwise Victorian landscape. This Art Deco skyscraper has had various roles over the years but now hosts the Elgin Downtown Neighborhood Association. It remains a landmark in the city.

Source: Art Deco Illinois: A Short Tour of the Architectural Wonders Found All Across The Prairie State - Atlas Obscura

6. Egyptian Theater - DeKalb, Illinois

The Egyptian Theater in DeKalb, Illinois, opened in 1929 and was one of the last movie houses with authentic Egyptian motifs. While it was closed in the 1970s, the theater was restored and reopened in 1983. It now serves as a venue for concerts, weddings, and movie screenings.

Source: Art Deco Illinois: A Short Tour of the Architectural Wonders Found All Across The Prairie State - Atlas Obscura

7. Coronado Performing Arts Center and Liebling Building - Rockford, Illinois

In Rockford, the Coronado Performing Arts Center is a Spanish-inspired Art Deco theater that originally served as a movie house. Today, it is a venue for diverse live performances. The Liebling Building, located nearby, also features Art Deco architecture.

Source: Art Deco Illinois: A Short Tour of the Architectural Wonders Found All Across The Prairie State - Atlas Obscura

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Art Deco Illinois: A Short Tour of the Architectural Wonders Found All Across The Prairie State - Atlas Obscura Art Deco – A Chicago Sojourn List of Art Deco architecture in Illinois - Wikipedia