Chicago Architecture Tour: Michigan Ave & State St Landmarks

Discover the iconic architectural landmarks of Chicago on a walking tour. Explore the buildings that shaped the city’s skyline and learn the stories behind their creation. Book now and support a nonprofit organization.

Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Chicago Architecture Center - Chicago Architecture Center; introductory remarks from the docent
  • Wrigley Building - View the Wrigley Building
  • Palmer House Hilton Historic Lobby - View the exterior and interior of the Palmer House Hotel
    Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to enter this location.
  • Carbide and Carbon Building -…
What's Included
  • Admission to Chicago Architecture Center Galleries
  • Certified guide narration
  • Chicago Architecture walking tour
What's Not Included
  • Hotel pick-up or drop-off
  • Storage for luggage or strollers
  • Coat check
Additional Information

Explore the renowned architectural wonders on Michigan Avenue and State Street. The period from 1890 to 1930 witnessed the birth of some of Chicago’s most iconic structures, with a vast majority highlighted in this tour.
Following the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893, Chicago was fueled by ambition to develop into a prominent cultural and commercial…

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
(329 Ratings)
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O6701glkimh
Oct 12, 2024
Great time - Ron, our docent, was great! He gave lots of fun facts and made it fun. I was prepared for the tour to be a bit “slow” but it was really fascinating.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
882kristinah
Oct 10, 2024
Great tour! - This tour was so fun! It’s informative, interesting and a gorgeous view of Chicago’s downtown. Paul is a friendly and knowledgeable tour guide. Highly recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jessicaleight
Oct 10, 2024
Loved the indoor and outdoor architecture education! - The guide, Matt, was fantastic! He walked a good pace (not too slow), articulated and spoke at a medium pace for easy listening and absorption, and provided insightful content. I loved that this tour was a combination of indoor and outdoor architecture with supporting details of the people who made it happen. Highly recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
X3533wwoliviac
Oct 9, 2024
PAUL SHOUN BEST GUIDE EVER - Paul S. is incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and funny! Would recommend this tour to tourists and Chicagoans alike!!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Bruceky4246wl
Oct 8, 2024
Great fun! - Great experience. Presenter was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and answered all our questions. Learned a lot about the history of Chicago.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Candee0
Oct 7, 2024
Great Tour and Guide - Matt S. our guide at the 1:00 pm Oct 6 tour was both amiable and informative. Many great exterior stops but going inside some of the buildings was the best! Hint: This tour involves brisk walking from location to location and a lot of standing during the entire time. Not suited for slower individuals who need to rest and sit down periodically.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Keridewaele
Oct 6, 2024
Outstanding tour! - This was an amazing tour! Our docent Maureen was very personable and was extremely knowledgeable about all the buildings. She shared many interesting facts about the architectural designs, architects, history, and more. The selection of buildings exteriors and the interiors of the Palmer House and the Cultural Center were outstanding. We decided we want to stay in all the hotels on the tour. Highly recommend this tour!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Vacation11553383831
Oct 6, 2024
Awesome tour with beautiful sights - Guide was ultra knowledgeable and friendly. All the buildings and details seen were absolutely available. The audio guides were especially a nice touch so that we can hear the guide speaking clearly. My favorite was the interior of the last stop!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Mary_w
Oct 5, 2024
Great guide - Guide was great. Knowledgable and humorous. Happy for questions and open to question. Truly interesting interiors.
Review provided by Viator
Mandysworldtour
Oct 2, 2024
Best Chicago Tours for Visitors and Locals - The tour was well-paced and planned, full of great historical information and stories, and our guide was terrific. CAF continues to bring great value to Chicago tours for visitors and locals alike by packing a wealth of history and culture into each tour. Highly recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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