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Chicago Walking Tour: Art Deco Skyscrapers Riverfront

Chicago Walking Tour: Art Deco Skyscrapers Riverfront

Overview

Tour the lobbies of five opulent Art Deco skyscrapers built near the banks of the Chicago River during the business boom of the Roaring '20s. Learn how Art Deco reflected the era’s fun-loving optimism with lavish materials and geometric ornament. Discover the origins of Art Deco while admiring buildings like the Carbide and Carbon Building (now Pendry Chicago), the Chicago Motor Club Building (now the Hampton Inn) and the colorful, but often overlooked, Trustees System Service Building (now the Century Tower)—all of which are designated Chicago landmarks. As a certified nonprofit, all CAC ticket purchases directly support our education efforts and community engagement projects.

City: Chicago

Sun 29 Jun

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $35.00

Make a reservation

Sun 29 Jun

Starting at $35.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

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
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Access to building interiors featured on this tour may be subject to change without notice due to weekend and holiday schedules or unforeseen closures.
Pets are not allowed.

What To Expect

Chicago River

Discuss buildings built in the Art Deco style along the riverfront

Carbide and Carbon Building

View the Carbide and Carbon Building

Merchandise Mart

Visit Merchandise Mart, 222 Merchandise Plaza

Cancellation Policy

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

Traveler Photos

Reviews (49)

E1288SNmaureenw

Mar 2025

I took the Art Deco Riverfront tour with Russ S today, and it was outstanding. He gave great details about the art deco characteristics of each building, and had very engaging stories at many of the stops. So knowledgeable! Highly recommend!

Response from Host

Mar 2025

Thank you for the great review! We're so happy you enjoyed the tour and appreciate the recommendation!

michaelbV1373US

Feb 2025

CAC provides some of the best tours with very informed and passionate docents. The tour guide was very friendly, and had many connections with staff of the buildings we toured inside to give us some great inside scoop. Will definitely book again in the future!

Response from Host

Feb 2025

Thank you for the great review! We're so happy you enjoyed the Art Deco tour and look forward to seeing you again!

michaelhR7467VU

Dec 2024

Very fun and informative tour. The buildings were beautiful and the docent, Marcia provided great context. I loved going into the lobbies and noticing the recurring themes.

Response from Host

Dec 2024

Thank you for the wonderful review! We're so happy you enjoyed the Art Deco tour and hope to see you again!