Merchandise Mart

Merchandise Mart, often called THE MART, is a massive Art Deco landmark on the Chicago River that has long served as a hub for design showrooms, trade shows, and office space. Its central location at the edge of the Loop, with direct connections to the Brown and Purple Line trains and short walks to major business and tourist areas, makes it a popular destination throughout the week and a busy spot during events and weekday rush hours.

Because it sits in a dense downtown district where streets fill quickly and curbside spaces are limited and time-restricted, parking near Merchandise Mart can be challenging, especially for visitors unfamiliar with local rules. Planning your parking in advance helps you avoid circling busy one-way streets, watching for loading zones and metered parking limits, and dealing with last-minute stress when traffic is heavy along Wells, Orleans, and the nearby riverfront. Booking a secure parking option ahead of time lets you focus on meetings, showrooms, and riverfront views instead of your car, and you should always confirm current regulations and guidance from official city and building sources before you arrive.