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Chicago City Tour: Elevated Architecture Tour with Train Ticket Included

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

Sat 21 Jun

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $41.00

Make a reservation

Sat 21 Jun

Starting at $41.00

Make a reservation

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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

Harold Washington Library Center

View the Harold Washington Library and State/Van Burnen Station

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)

gilesn2025

Feb 2025

My family has an interest in architecture and I like CTA trains, so our expectations were high, but the tour greatly exceeded them. Seeing Chicago’s architectural gems up close from one or two stories up and with the expert guidance of Steve was a fantastic experience! I have loved each of the 4 CAF tours I did but this was the best by far!

Response from Host

Feb 2025

Thank you for the great review! We're so happy you and your family enjoyed the El tour with Steve and the other CAC tours you took. We hope to see you again!

hughmV9450HW

Jan 2025

We greatly enjoyed the tour, despite the intense cold of the day. Our guide remained upbeat and informative throughout.It was our first tour as members. We look forward to many more.

Response from Host

Jan 2025

Thank you for the great review! We're so happy you enjoyed the L tour and look forward to seeing you on more!

Monroe_H

Dec 2024

Steve our tour guide was great, very professional and knowledgeable and great stories about the history and characters involved in building the elevated system. I would highly recommend this tour.