chicago walking tour historic treasures of chicago

Historic Treasures of Chicago’s Golden Age

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.

THIS TOUR IS ONE OF 12 WORLDWIDE TO RECEIVE THE 2019 “BEST TOUR ON TWO FEET” AWARD FROM GET YOUR GUIDE, AN INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL INDUSTRY GROUP.

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.

• Your safety is our priority. The itinerary of this tour may be altered in accordance with health and safety policies and considerations.
• Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your tour. View the CAC's hours .

Photos From This Tour

Upcoming Historic Treasures of Chicago’s Golden Age Tours

Tuesday apr 2.

• 10:30am Buy Tickets
• 2:00pm Buy Tickets

Wednesday Apr 3

• 11:00am Buy Tickets
• 1:30pm Buy Tickets

Thursday Apr 4

Friday apr 5, saturday apr 6.

• 11:30am Buy Tickets

Sunday Apr 7

• 1:00pm Buy Tickets

Highlights of this Tour

Wrigley Building

400-410 n. michigan ave..

The Wrigley Building is so recognizable, it hardly needs an introduction.

Carbide and Carbon Building

230 n. michigan ave..

Luxurious, exuberant and dramatic, the Carbide and Carbon Building is a metaphor for the sumptuous décor…

Chicago Cultural Center

78 e. washington st..

Who would expect a massive Beaux Arts block in the heart of the city to be a hub of contemporary arts…

a structure that looks like half of a sphere

a softer sedimentary rock of fossillized shells and coral

a medium-hard metamorphic rock of crystallized limestone

Millennium Park

201 e. randolph st..

“Let’s cover it with a park.”

Michigan Avenue Bridge (DuSable Bridge)

N. michigan ave. and e. wacker dr..

The place where Michigan Avenue crosses the Chicago River is one of the most iconic urban spaces in the…

Sullivan Center

1 s. state st..

Louis Sullivan designed few religious buildings during his career, but one of his best-known works is…

Reliance Building

32 n. state st..

A “self-cleaning” skyscraper?

Chicago Athletic Association Hotel

12 s. michigan ave..

It’s not often that the doors to an exclusive private club are thrown open to the public.

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Chicago: Treasures of the Golden Age Walking Tour

About the activity

Discover many of Chicago's architectural landmark buildings from the late 19th and early 20th century. This tour through Chicago's famous Loop includes the dazzling interiors of Marshall Field’s, the Palmer House Hotel and the Chicago Cultural Center.

• Free cancellation Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Instant confirmation & Mobile tickets Receive your ticket right away. Use your phone or print your voucher.
• Live guiding English
• Start times - Available tomorrow 10:30 AM, 2:00 PM
• Duration 2 hours
• New: admission to the Chicago Architecture Center Exhibits
• 2-hour walking tour
• Chicago Architecture Center certified guide
• Hotel pick-up or drop off
• Storage for luggage and strollers
• Learn about the great architectural landmarks from the Golden Age (1890s-1930s) on Michigan Avenue and State Street
• Hear about the city's architectural gems—museums, department stores, skyscrapers and concert halls—and the men and women who inspired them
• Understand why Chicago was determined to become a great cultural metropolis after the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893
• See buildings designed by noted architects like Daniel Burnham, Louis Sullivan and Holabird and Roche
• Learn from your local expert guide, trained by the Chicago Architecture Center – the city’s leading authority on architecture

Description

This Historic Treasures of Chicago tour covers the most significant historic architectural landmarks in Chicago’s Loop. Your expert guide, trained by the Chicago Architecture Center, will focus on great cultural buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which harkened back to earlier time periods and were designed in revival styles such as Beaux Arts, neo-Georgian and neo-Gothic. Marvel at exteriors and interiors of dazzling beauty and startling originality, and get a glimpse inside some of the city's most beloved buildings.    The highlights of this walking tour will include the Chicago Cultural Center, home to the world's largest Tiffany dome; the iconic Marshall Field's department store, now Macy's on State; and the Palmer House, a beautifully restored hotel from the 1920s.  Tickets purchased for experiences run by the Chicago Architecture Center help build the greater Chicago community. When you hit the pavement on a walking tour, set sail on an award-winning river cruise (Chicago's First Lady), or visit the Center, you’re helping fund Chicago Architecture Center education initiatives like Girls Build!, Teen Fellows and the Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition. Or you may be helping to keep programs like Open House Chicago free for participants for years to come. As a certified nonprofit, all Chicago Architecture Center ticket purchases directly support local education efforts and community engagement projects.

• This tour is unable to provide secure storage for luggage or strollers
• Unfortunately there are no refunds due to the weather and tours depart rain or shine
• Pets are not allowed, but service animals are welcome

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• About this activity

Chicago: Treasures of the Golden Age Walking Tour

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Learn about the great architectural landmarks from the Golden Age (1890s-1930s) on Michigan Avenue and State Street
• Hear about the city's architectural gems—museums, department stores, skyscrapers and concert halls—and the men and women who inspired them
• Understand why Chicago was determined to become a great cultural metropolis after the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893
• See buildings designed by noted architects like Daniel Burnham, Louis Sullivan and Holabird and Roche
• Learn from your local expert guide, trained by the Chicago Architecture Center – the city’s leading authority on architecture

Activity location

• Chicago, Illinois, United States

Meeting/Redemption Point

• Check in inside Chicago Architecture Center, 111 East Wacker Drive, Chicago IL 60601
• Mon, Apr 1 -
• Tue, Apr 2 $30
• Wed, Apr 3 $30
• Thu, Apr 4 $30
• Fri, Apr 5 $30
• Sat, Apr 6 $30
• Sun, Apr 7 $30
• Mon, Apr 8 $30
• Tue, Apr 9 $30
• Wed, Apr 10 $30
• Thu, Apr 11 $30
• Fri, Apr 12 $30
• Sat, Apr 13 $30
• Sun, Apr 14 $30
• Mon, Apr 15 $30
• Activity duration is 2 hours 2h 2h

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included New: admission to the Chicago Architecture Center Exhibits
• What's included What's included 2-hour walking tour
• What's included What's included Chicago Architecture Center certified guide
• What's excluded What's excluded Hotel pick-up or drop off
• What's excluded What's excluded Storage for luggage and strollers
• What's excluded What's excluded Coat check

Know before you book

• Not allowed: Luggage or large bags, Pets
• Not suitable for: People with mobility impairments

What you can expect

This Historic Treasures of Chicago tour covers the most significant historic architectural landmarks in Chicago’s Loop. Your expert guide, trained by the Chicago Architecture Center, will focus on great cultural buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which harkened back to earlier time periods and were designed in revival styles such as Beaux Arts, neo-Georgian and neo-Gothic. Marvel at exteriors and interiors of dazzling beauty and startling originality, and get a glimpse inside some of the city's most beloved buildings.

The highlights of this walking tour will include the Chicago Cultural Center, home to the world's largest Tiffany dome; the iconic Marshall Field's department store, now Macy's on State; and the Palmer House, a beautifully restored hotel from the 1920s.

Tickets purchased for experiences run by the Chicago Architecture Center help build the greater Chicago community.

When you hit the pavement on a walking tour, set sail on an award-winning river cruise (Chicago's First Lady), or visit the Center, you’re helping fund Chicago Architecture Center education initiatives like Girls Build!, Teen Fellows and the Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition. Or you may be helping to keep programs like Open House Chicago free for participants for years to come. As a certified nonprofit, all Chicago Architecture Center ticket purchases directly support local education efforts and community engagement projects.

The Chicago Architecture Center: Facts No One Told You

Known as the birthplace of the skyscraper, Chicago is a mecca for architecture enthusiasts.

This past weekend I had the chance to visit the Chicago Architecture Center during a family staycation .

It is a remarkable place dedicated to exploring the city's rich architectural legacy.

The Chicago Architecture Center

Located right in the heart of the Loop, the Center offers exhibits, tours, programs, and more for visitors looking to learn about Chicago's iconic buildings and urban design history.

As I approached the Center, I was wowed by its entrance with floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

I knew I was in for a one-of-a-kind experience that would provide unique perspectives on Chicago's architectural landscape.

In this blog post, I'll take you through highlights of my visit to this inspirational culture and this education hub that showcases our city's incredible architecture.

From historical insights to behind-the-scenes access, let me show you why the Chicago Architecture Center is a must-see attraction.

How to Get Tickets to the Chicago Architecture Center

Purchasing tickets to experience all that the Chicago Architecture Center is simple and convenient. As a tour partner, you can get your ticket (s) right away with the click of a button.

If you prefer to buy tickets on-site, head to one of the ticket counters on the main and lower levels once you arrive at the Center. Friendly and knowledgeable staff can provide guidance about the different Chicago architecture tours , exhibits, and 3D movie options and help you choose suitable tickets based on your interests.

Keep in mind certain tours like the popular River Cruise may sell out, so booking those tickets early is advised. The boats are located near the Magnificent Mile and Chicago Wrigley Building.

The center accepts all major credit cards for ticket purchases. One money-saving tip is to look for special combo ticket deals on groupon.

With your tickets in hand, you'll be ready to start your architectural adventure in Chicago.

Inside the Chicago Architecture Center

Upon entry, I was tempted to see the first floor but wanted to save it for last. So, I immediately went to the second floor to see the exhibits.

The exhibits tell Chicago's architectural story from sustainable urban planning initiatives to innovative architectural designs.

After all these years, Chicago continues to evolve and adapt which enables them to stay at the forefront of urban development.

Famous Buildings and Architects

Chicago is home to some legendary architects who have helped shape the city's iconic skyline.

Daniel Burnham was an influential American architect behind prominent Chicago buildings like the Rookery, Monadnock Building, an

d Railway Exchange Building.

Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the most prolific architects of the 20th century, designed homes and structures in Oak Park and across Chicagoland including the Robie House.

Louis Sullivan was a pioneering modern architect and mentor to Wright, renowned for decorative Chicago works like the Carson, Pirie, Scott and Company Building, which is now a Target on State Street.

Jeanne Gang is a contemporary Chicago architect making her mark with creative buildings such as the Aqua Tower.

Additional famous Chicago architects through history include John Wellborn Root of the firm Burnham and Root, William Le Baron Jenney who is considered the father of the skyscraper, and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe who designed modernist glass skyscrapers in the mid-1900s.

Chicago's landscape would not be what it is today without these iconic innovators. Here are some buildings that you may already be familiar with and are easy to recognize.

The Rookery

Auditorium Building

Willis Tower

Chicago Board of Trade

Marina City

Reliance Building

Chicago Federal Center

Monadnock Building

Chicago's Infrastructure

When I take the train into the Loop for work, the evolution and complexity of the city's foundation barely crosses my mind. However, this exhibit was an eye-opener.

On this visit I learned more about Chicago's building blocks, including the transportation system, road and bridges, green spaces, and waterways. The interactive displays engaged people of all ages.

Although I have always known the city's status as a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds. I still enjoyed hearing about the neighborhoods of Chicago, its population, and current projects within the city.

And even though I've heard the story of The Great Fire a dozen times, and it is always fascinating to see the fragility of man and the resilience of a city that rose from adversity.

Architectural Styles

There are several famous buildings you should know in Chicago . You will see some of them on the architectural river tour or when walking in the Loop. These architectural styles are most noteworthy, and most are located in the downtown area.

Merchandise Mart

Carbide and Carbon Building

Chicago Cultural Center

Jewelers' Building

Art Institute of Chicago

Gothic Revival

Chicago Temple

Tribue Tower

Fisher Building

James R. Thompson Center

Harold Washington Library

333 West Wacker

International

Inland Steel Building

860-880 Lake Shore Drive

Interesting Facts about Chicago

Chicago has evolved a lot and it was a wonderful experience to see the beautification project manifest. The purpose of the project was to make the city more attractive. And its growth is evidence of success.

The city fills more than 100,000 potholes each year.

Chicago maintains pothole data to predict when repairs will be needed.

European immigrants looking for jobs and the Great Migration created a population boom.

Chicago is the 3rd largest city in the US by population.

The Loop was once devoid of residents, now Chicago apartments are in high demand.

There are at least 200 dynamic neighborhoods in Chicago that shifts with real estate development.

Marina City was built to entice suburbanites back to the city.

FAQs About the Chicago Architecture Center

How long does it take to tour the chicago architecture center.

Allow for 2 to 3 hours to tour the building.

Is the Chicago Architecture Center free?

No, there is a fee to see the exhibits. You can also purchase combination tickets for a river cruise.

How did Chicago become an architecture center?

A combination of historic events like ethe Great Chicago Fire, the skyscraper boom, and emerging visionaries like Frank Lloyd Write, Louis Sullivan, and Daniel Burnham.

Who designed the Chicago Architecture Center?

The center is in a building that was designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.

Final Thoughts on the Chicago Architecture Center

As a Chicagoan and traveler, I am always in awe of the creative engineering found in architecture.

Whether it's made of stone that is hundreds of years old or of modern steel, there is something to be said of how the creative mind captures the essence of a city's history and evolution.

My time spent at the Chicago Architecture Center was tremendously educational and inspiring.

Viewing impressive models of iconic structures, learning directly from knowledgeable docents, and getting unique vantage points of the city on boat tours will allow you to appreciate Chicago's architecture in new ways.

For anyone planning a trip to this remarkable museum, I have a few tips:

Arrive early to avoid lines at the busiest times,

Check the website calendar for special exhibits/events you may want to coordinate with,

Wear comfortable walking shoes for multi-hour tours

Consider the CityPass for discounts if you plan to visit other top Chicago attractions too.

Whatever you see and experience, the Chicago Architecture Center is sure to leave you in awe of the innovation and vision behind the Windy City's towering structures and urban landscape.

This world-class facility truly celebrates the incredible architecture that makes Chicago unique.