Chicago Architecture Tour: 90-Minute Walking Experience

Discover the iconic skyscrapers and high rises of Chicago on a 90-minute architecture tour. Learn about the city’s architectural history and support a nonprofit organization.

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Chicago Architecture Center - Start and finish the tour at the Chicago Architecture Center.
  • 177 N State St - Constructed in the late 1800s, this building showcases a unique cast-iron facade.
  • Virgin Hotels Chicago - Observe the Virgin Hotel.
  • Hampton Inn Chicago Downtown/N Loop/Michigan Ave - Explore the renovated Chicago Motor…
What's Included
  • Admission to the Galleries of the Chicago Architecture Center
  • Narration by a professional and certified guide
  • Walking tour of Chicago Architecture
What's Not Included
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Storage for luggage or strollers
  • Coat check
Additional Information

Looking for a brief overview of Chicago’s stunning architecture? This tour, lasting 1.5 hours, offers an exhaustive journey through the city’s architectural timeline, observing structures from the earliest skyscrapers to the most recent towering high rises.
Being an accredited nonprofit, every ticket sold for CAC tours contributes directly to our…

Location
Chicago Architecture Center
East Wacker Drive
Meet at the Chicago Architecture Center at 111 E Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL, 60601
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(173 Ratings)
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Seonyoungh2025
Feb 22, 2025
Wonderful Tour and Great Experience - The tour guide Jon was fantastic. He was very knowledgeable and took the time to answer my questions. It was a cold day, but Jon did his best to keep us warm. The tour was really interesting and informative, and I highly recommend it when visiting Chicago.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
575jannar
Feb 17, 2025
Exceptional architecture walking tour! - The tour struck the perfect balance between architecture and history, providing a comprehensive understanding of the city's development and the significance of its landmarks. Tom, the guide, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about Chicago and its architecture. His enthusiasm was contagious, and he brought the city's rich history to life with his engaging storytelling and sense of humor. The buildings we visited were breathtakingly beautiful, and Tom's insights helped me appreciate the intricate details and design elements that make them so iconic. I was fortunate enough to have a private tour, as I was the only one who signed up for the specific timeslot, and it truly made the experience even more special. The flexibility to book at the last minute was a huge plus, and I'm so glad I did!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tristanmv1716vq
Jan 15, 2025
A must - Betsy was a great guide, thanks to her we better understand the architectural currents that shaped downtown Chicago!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Addisonp330
Jan 5, 2025
Totally worth the money - Betsy J was a fantastic guide. Tour was super fun and engaging and super informative. Totally worth the money. Recommend
Review provided by Tripadvisor
D3190ghnickw
Jan 1, 2025
Fun walking tour - Good tour, right amount of length, not too long and not too short. Liked the carbon and carbide bldg most of all. Cynthia did a great job!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
D
Dec 30, 2024
Truly comprehensive tour - Expert Guide Cynthia B showed us some gorgeous examples of the changing styles of Chicago architecture on an easy-paced walk. Listening devices made it easy to hear above city noises. Added tidbits of Chicago history made this even better.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Eleanorh230
Dec 30, 2024
Great thing to do in Chicago - Our guide, Cynthia B was fantastic! She kept us walking in chronological order of when buildings were constructed and outline the specific characteristics of each. It was fascinating , fun, and educational.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Elliotsh8420ck
Dec 30, 2024
Great tour of Chicago - The tour was both informative and engaging. I thoroughly enjoyed the walking timeline of Chicago’s architecture. Cynthia was fantastic.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Michellesa6401wt
Dec 19, 2024
Chicago Architecture Center - Walking Tour - Pedway - Our guide Sandy from CAC had in-depth knowledge of the architecture of the buildings, the surrounding downtown streets, the short cuts & long cuts how to navigate the streets both underground and at street level. And many interesting facts about the Pedway. Very interesting enjoyable tour and learned a lot in 2 hours.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Carab740
Dec 8, 2024
Architectural tour around Michigan Avenue area - John was an excellent tour guide. Not only covering the architecture and architectural history of the city of providing other interesting information along the way. Thank you.!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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