Art Deco: Landmark Lobbies

  • Interior view of brass elevator door.
Discover the glamour of the Roaring '20s with a tour of Chicago’s exquisite Art Deco lobbies, a testament to the city’s architectural heritage.
  • Interior view of brass elevator door.

Step out of the cold and into the lobbies of three Art Deco skyscrapers whose lavish materials and modern ornament epitomized the prosperity and optimism of the Roaring ‘20s.

Duration
1 hour
Site Type
Neighborhoods
Location
Downtown
Architects and Styles
Meet

Chicago Architecture Center 111 E. Wacker Dr.

All of the buildings on this 1-hour tour are located within 1½ blocks of the Chicago Architecture Center. The shorter walking distance allows for longer viewing time inside the faithfully restored lobbies of three landmark Art Deco buildings and, for comparison, one neo-classical building. Offered only in January and February, this tour offers less exposure to the elements and more exposure to the glamour and history of some of Chicago’s best Art Deco buildings.

Notes:
  • Many tours sell out. To guarantee your space advance reservations are strongly recommended.
  • Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your tour. View the CAC's hours.
  • Your safety is our priority. The itinerary of this tour may be altered in accordance with health and safety policies and considerations.

Tour Reviews

    • When I lead this Deco tour, I get a kick out of seeing guests’ faces light up when they go inside the lobbies -- buildings aren’t designed with glitzy ornament like this anymore!
      Bill CoffinCAC Docent
  • Ornate golden elevator doors in building lobby

    Carbon and Carbide Building

  • Interior view of 2-story building lobby with large US map on the wall

    Hampton Inn Chicago Motor Club

  • Looking up through oval-shaped multi-level stairwell with dark wood banisters

    Hampton Inn Chicago Motor Club

  • Mosaic tile domed ceiling in gold and copper tones

    LondonHouse Hotel Lobby.

FAQ

  • Essential walking tours depart from the center at 111 East Wacker; they are free for all CAC members. Premier walking tours depart from other locations across Chicago, including neighborhood tours. Premier tours are discounted for individual, dual and family memberships and free for Deco level and above.

  • The CAC welcomes all visitors and is committed to making its offerings feel safe and accessible to everyone. Learn more about accessibility options.

  • Many of our tours depart from the CAC at 111 E. Wacker. Your ticket (regular or print-at-home) will indicate the departure location. If you have any questions about your tour’s meeting place, give us a call at 312.922.TOUR (8687).

    For tours that don’t begin at the CAC, please consult the individual tour webpage, or call 312.922.TOUR (8687) for details on the meeting location.

All walking & bus tours FAQ

Buildings on This Tour

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Group & Private Tours

CAC offers discounted rates and customized options for groups and tour operators. Learn about options here.

See Group and Private tours
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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