The Gaylord Building played a vital role in one of the great enterprises of the 19th century: the Illinois & Michigan Canal. A landmark since 1838, its many tenants and uses exemplify the canal’s commercial success as the key to mastery of the American mid-continent. This handsome limestone warehouse originally stored canal construction materials and later housed a variety of commercial ventures. Today it is a national example of adaptive reuse and serves as a gateway to the I&M Canal National Heritage Corridor. Guests can explore the heritage of the region in the exhibition galleries, and dine in the renowned Public Landing Restaurant.

The Gaylord Building is owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and operated and administered by The Gaylord Building Historic Site.