Chicago Walking Tour: The Magnificent Mile

Overview

Discover how a dirt road known as Pine Street transformed into a "Paris on the Prairie" and later into the Magnificent Mile, the city’s premier shopping district. Hear the secrets and stories behind the striking buildings on North Michigan Avenue that have become architectural icons.

Developed over the past 100 years, the street includes historically-inspired architecture in Parisian, Gothic, neoclassical and Art Deco styles sprinkled among Modern and 21st Century buildings. You’ll see skyscrapers, vertical malls, hotels, residential towers and some buildings that were designed to embody the brands sold inside.

As a certified nonprofit, all CAC ticket purchases directly support our education efforts and community engagement projects.

City: Chicago

Wed 11 Jun

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $35.00

Make a reservation

Wed 11 Jun

Starting at $35.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Admission to the Galleries of the Chicago Architecture Center

Walking tour of the Magnificent Mile

Narration by a professional and certified guide

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
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 without notice due to weekend and holiday schedules or unforeseen closures.
Pets are not allowed.

What To Expect

The Magnificent Mile

Discuss the history of the Magnificent Mile and the history and architecture of notable buildings along it.

Michigan Avenue Bridge

View the Michigan Avenue (DuSable) Bridge.

Wrigley Building

View the Wrigley Building.

John Hancock Center

View 875 N Michigan Avenue, formerly known as the John Hancock Center.

Tribune Tower

View the newly renovated Tribune Tower.

Show 2 more stops

Cancellation Policy

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

Traveler Photos

Reviews (31)

219amif

Sep 2024

We had wanted to do a walking tour through the architecture center, and they booked up quicker than we expected. The Magnificent Mile tour was not our first pick but spots were available. The tour ended up being great and exceeded expectations. Shirlee was our guide and was full of enthusiasm and love for the city. Shirlee pointed out hidden features I'd never noticed before, even though I've lived in Chicago for years. We didn't actually walk that far, but still learned a lot. We're looking forward to trying another tour. One tip - if you have smaller ears, you may want to bring a pair of wired earbuds. The ones they use are quite large and were uncomfortable for me as a petite woman.

Response from Host

Sep 2024

Thank you for the great review! We're so happy you enjoyed the tour and hope to see you on more tours in the future!

Koen_K

Sep 2024

I do a Chicago Architecture Center tour once in a while. Always great things to learn from very knowledgeable and passionate guides. Today Sandy was our guide on the Magnificent Mile. Every time I learn something new on the Wrigley building. Love you guys !

Response from Host

Sep 2024

Thank you for the great review! We're so happy you enjoyed the Mag Mile tour with Sandy and look forward to seeing you on another tour soon. We love you too! :)

bfritsche0431

Aug 2024

Robert was enthusiastic and full of good information. I loved the tour! I have taken this tour at least 2 other times. This was the BEST!

Response from Host

Aug 2024

Thank you for the great review! We're so happy you enjoyed the Mag Mile tour with Robert and hope to see you again soon!