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Chicago Walking Tour: Historic Treasures of Chicago

Chicago Walking Tour: Historic Treasures of Chicago

Overview

Learn about the great architectural landmarks of Michigan Avenue and State Street. The 40 years between 1890 and 1930 saw the creation of some of Chicago’s the most memorable buildings, many of which are featured on this tour.

After the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893, Chicago was determined to become a great cultural and commercial metropolis. This tour is a testament to that era's ambitions. See buildings by Daniel Burnham, Louis Sullivan, Holabird and Roche and other noted architects and hear the stories behind the city's architectural gems.

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 $35.00

Make a reservation

Sat 21 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

Walking tour of Chicago Architecture

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Access to building interiors featured on this tour may be subject to change, due to weekend and holiday schedules or unforeseen closures.
Pets are not allowed.

What To Expect

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

View the Carbide and Carbon Building

Reliance Building

View the Reliance Building.

Chicago Cultural Center

View the exterior and interior of the Chicago Cultural Center

Show 2 more stops

Cancellation Policy

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

Traveler Photos

Reviews (345)

E978BTblakes

Mar 2025

Our tour guide, Paul, was great! Overall very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about everything he had to show us! Would definitely take another tour here.

kacit371

Mar 2025

I moved to Chicago a few months before taking this tour, so had some familiarity with a few the buildings that were included. However, I still learned so much and gained an even greater appreciation for all of the beautiful architecture in the city. Paul was a fantastic and knowledgeable guide who ensured we had a great experience. I definitely plan on signing up for more tours and learning even more about what makes Chicago such a scenic destination!

mbmcdoyle

Mar 2025

My husband and I took a quick weekend trip to Chicago and this tour, which was the Historic Treasures of Chicago’s Golden Age, was a bit of a last minute after thought but we are so glad we scheduled it. This was such an interesting and enjoyable experience. Jacquelyn was an excellent guide, both informative and friendly. It really allowed for an appreciation of the architecture within a historical context. The Drake Hotel and the Chicago Cultural Center with the amazing Tiffany ceiling mosaics were drop jaw gorgeous. I highly recommend and look forward to future tours with the Chicago Architecture Center.

Response from Host

Mar 2025

Thank you for the wonderful review! We're so happy you and your husband enjoyed the tour and hope to see you again the next time you visit Chicago!