The BOT was established in 1848, it is the world’s oldest futures and options exchange. More than 50 different options and futures contracts are traded by over 3,600 CBOT members through open outcry and eTrading.
Trades are made in the pit through two forms of communication. One is bidding or offering a price and quantity depending on if you want to buy (bid) or sell (offer). The other is using a physical representation of the order with your hands and face called arbitrage.
The trading floors have a free visitors’ gallery on the fifth floor. The Chicago Board of Trade is currently closed to the public, due to security concerns. However, high-school and affiliate groups that have pre-arranged their visit are welcome. Call (312) 435-3590 to reserve.
The lobby features a variety of art deco floor designs, including a pattern with airplanes, steamships, & submarines in the basement.
At the base of the courtyard above the main entrance is a clock topped by an eagle and flanked by two hooded figures – an American Indian holding a stalk of corn and a bearded man holding a sheaf of wheat.
Location: 141 W Jackson Blvd
Phone: (312) 922-8936