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Train & Walking Tour: Chicago Loop - Home of the Modern Skyscraper

Train & Walking Tour: Chicago Loop - Home of the Modern Skyscraper

Overview

We start our tour at one of the most interesting buildings in the Loop — the Fine Arts Building. Built in 1884 as a showroom and office complex, the building was converted later into its present-day use.

Then we're off to the Harold Washington Chicago Public Library, the design of which was the winner of a competition to design a new library for the City of Chicago. From there, we'll view three Chicago landmarks built in the late 1800s, then visit the beautiful Marquette Building, the Field Building (built on the site of the world's first modern skyscraper) and then see the amazing atrium lobby of the world-renowned Rookery Building.

Next, we're off to the beautifully-restored Quincy L stop (authentic 1897 design) and take the train to our last stops. We visit the iconic Macy's to see the beautiful Tiffany mosaic then we wrap up the tour at the Cultural Center to experience the world's largest Tiffany dome.

Make a day of it and book our Pedway/Riverwalk tour for the afternoon!

City: Chicago

Sat 19 Oct

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $60.00

Make a reservation

Sat 19 Oct

Starting at $60.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Transit tickets

Local expert guide

Additional Info

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Should be able to climb stairs as not all train stations are equipped with elevators
Masks are optional. Proof of vaccination not required.

What To Expect

Fine Arts Building

Meet your guide in the lobby and tour this famous building, which still has manually operated elevators.

Harold Washington Library Center

Check out the library's hidden gems and exhibits.

Monadnock Building

Take a close-up look at what was once the largest office building in the world.

Marquette Building

Learn about this national landmark.

The Rookery Building

Take a quick look at one of the most architecturally-significant buildings in the city.

Macy's on State Street

Visit this iconic department store and marvel at its amazing architecture.

Chicago Cultural Center

Wrap up the tour with a quick peek at the home of the world's largest Tiffany dome.

Show 4 more stops

Cancellation Policy

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

Traveler Photos

Reviews (22)

codyhZ826AJ

Oct 2022

Great tour and information Tom provided an excellent experience. We had a wonderful time learning about the architecture and history of Chicago

Response from Host

Oct 2022

Thank you for the kind review! Glad you enjoyed your tour with Tom.

Tourist185467

Sep 2022

The Metra trains are clean and conductors are funny and helpful with travelers using the electronic tickets and app. Single seating or small groups seating is available with the adjustable seats. You can take almost anything on board with you water bottles bags, etc. Some seats have outlets to charge your phone.

Response from Host

Oct 2022

Hello, it seems that this review was probably meant for the Metra listing page rather than the L Stop Tours page. We ride L Trains (CTA) but do not ride any Metra trains on any tour currently.

sheilahC5014PW

Sep 2022

Loved this tour, it was such an eye opener to find out the history of Chicago’s skyscrapers. Seeing buildings that we’d walked past but has no idea of their history. Tom was informative and enthusiastic, and made the tour the joy that it was. Would highly recommend to anyone.

Response from Host

Sep 2022

Great to hear you enjoyed the tour with Tom! Hope to see you back again next time you are in Chicago.