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Chicago City Tour: Elevated Architecture Tour with Train Ticket Included

Overview
Explore Chicago’s amazing architecture from the unique perspective of elevated trains and station platforms. Learn the history behind the famous "L" system and hear how it has shaped the development of buildings within the Loop.
The city's first elevated train started making trips in 1892. Now considered one of Chicago’s most defining features, the "L" offers incredible views of downtown. By being more than 20 feet off the ground, you'll see architectural details that are missed by most pedestrians at street level. This is our most comprehensive tour in the Loop, passing hundreds of buildings and highlighting ones of architectural significance. As a certified nonprofit, all CAC ticket purchases directly support our education efforts and community engagement projects.
City: Chicago
Fri 20 Jun
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $41.00
Fri 20 Jun
Starting at $41.00
Make a reservation
What's Included
Fare to ride the Chicago Elevated Rail system
Admission to the galleries of the Chicago Architecture Center.
Narration by a professional and certified guide.
Additional Info
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Only about 15 minutes of this two-hour tour is on a train, while most of the remaining tour takes place outdoors standing on the station platforms.
  • Pets are not allowed.
  • The itinerary of this tour is subject to change without notice.
  • Seating at stations and on the train is not guaranteed.
  • This tour is not ADA accessible. Stairs are required.
  • Not recommended for travelers with difficulty walking or standing.
What To Expect
1
Harold Washington Library Center
View the Harold Washington Library and State/Van Burnen Station
2
Chicago Board Of Trade Building
View the Chicago Board of Trade Building
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Traveler Photos
Reviews (59)
Pioneer59908604583
Feb 2025
This was one of the best tours I've ever had. Our guide, Cynthia, was friendly and extremely knowledgeable about Chicago and about architecture. In an easy walk we visited a wide range of buildings from the 1800s to the recently constructed, including amazing Art Deco that shows Chicago style so well.
Response from Host
Feb 2025
Thank you for the fantastic review! We're so happy you enjoyed the Elevated Architecture tour with Cynthia and hope to see you again.
mar_ap310
Feb 2025
I really enjoyed this tour! Our guide, Chris, was great and full of interesting stories and facts about the architecture surrounding the train and the train itself. He really knew a lot about Chicago! We started from the Chicago Architecture Center and walked to the elevated train (the "L" train). Once there, we got on the train and stopped at some stations to admire the architecture. The ride was on a section of one of the "L" lines (Pink and Green lines on this occasion). The tour gives you the chance to enjoy the city from a different perspective. I definitely would recommend it to those who want to learn about and enjoy one of the most iconic infrastructures of Chicago.
Response from Host
Feb 2025
Thank you for the wonderful review! We're so happy you enjoyed the L tour with Chris and hope to see you again!
francescocU3505WN
Feb 2025
Wonderful morning discovering Chicago through the L train. Thanks again for the insights Quentin! Would recommend it
Response from Host
Feb 2025
Thank you for the wonderful review! We're so happy you enjoyed the tour and hope to see you again!

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