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Devil in the White City

  • A serene Japanese garden with a winding stone pathway bordered by lush greenery, leading to a tranquil pond reflecting overhanging trees and a pagoda-style structure in the background.

    Osaka Garden and Museum of Science and Industry. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

Step back in time to the 1893 World’s Fair with a tour that highlights Chicago’s historic architecture and the stories behind it.
  • A serene Japanese garden with a winding stone pathway bordered by lush greenery, leading to a tranquil pond reflecting overhanging trees and a pagoda-style structure in the background.

    Osaka Garden and Museum of Science and Industry. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

  • Best architecture tours of Chicago

History buffs and true crime lovers, rejoice! This bus tour delves into the compelling true story told in Erik Larson’s best-selling novel, “Devil in the White City.” The story traverses two simultaneous events in Chicago’s history: the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893 and the emergence of serial murderer Dr. Henry H. Holmes.

Duration
2.5+ hours
Site Type
Neighborhoods
Location
Southside
Architects and Styles
Meet

Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Wacker Dr.

The tour kicks off with a presentation featuring period photographs of the Fair and its central characters to set the tone. Then, we hit the road to tour locations and buildings that Fair goers would have experienced. The next stop is at the street that was home to Chicago's business and social elite during the Fair, then the bus winds past the home of Fair critic Ida B. Wells. Other tour highlights include the Midway and the site of the Ferris Wheel, with stops for a short walking tour of the Fairgrounds in Jackson Park. Those who have read Erik Larson’s book will learn more about the circumstances surrounding the Fair and Dr. Holmes; those who haven’t will find this tour to be a fascinating introduction to the 1893 World's Fair and the evil Dr. Holmes.


Know before you go:
  • For guests unable to use stairs, please notify us at least two weeks in advance (when possible) by calling 312.922.3432 to ensure an accessible bus is available.
  • Mobility aids (walkers, wheelchairs, etc.) can be stored on the bus.
  • Guests are invited to bring a bag lunch and beverage onboard the bus.

Tour reviews

    • Vintage black and white photograph of Gale Ferris Jr.'s original Ferris Wheel, towering over the Chicago skyline with its iconic structure.Vintage black and white photograph of Gale Ferris Jr.'s original Ferris Wheel, towering over the Chicago skyline with its iconic structure.
      This tour, which is based on many buildings that no longer stand and deals with an infamous criminal, is still is one of my favorites. It tells the story of the transition of the city from a rough and tumble Midwest trading center to a major metropolis—second in the nation—demanding world-wide respect.
      Ellen ShubartCAC Docent
  • Exterior view of the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, featuring its historic architecture with ornate details and a large dome.

    Museum of Science and Industry

  • Exterior view of the Keith Mansion, a grand Victorian-era building with intricate architectural details.

    Keith Mansion

  • Large golden statue, depicting a historical figure on a pedestal surrounded by greenery and pathways.

    The Statue of the Republic, Jackson Park

  • Exterior of the historic Auditorium Theater in Chicago, featuring ornate architecture

    The Auditorium Building

Buildings on This Tour

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Skyscraper GallerySkyscraper Gallery

Free Center Entry with Your Ticket

Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your walking or bus tour.

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