Elevated Architecture: Downtown 'L' Train

  • Elevated train passing by modern red-framed building
Gain insight into Chicago’s elevated 'L' train, exploring its history and impact on urban design.
  • Elevated train passing by modern red-framed building

Explore Chicago’s amazing architecture from the unique perspective of elevated trains and station platforms. Learn the history behind the famous 'L' system and hear how it has shaped the development of buildings within the Loop.

Duration
2 hours
Site Type
Neighborhoods
Location
Downtown
Architects and Styles
Meet

Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Wacker Dr.

The city's first elevated train started making trips in 1892. Now considered one of Chicago’s most defining features, the 'L' offers incredible views of downtown. By being more than 20 feet off the ground, you'll see architectural details that are missed by most pedestrians at street level. This is our most comprehensive tour in the Loop, passing hundreds of buildings and highlighting ones of architectural significance.

Know before you go:
  • This tour is not ADA accessible. Stairs are required.
  • Only about 15 minutes of this two-hour tour is on a train. The majority of the tour takes place outdoors, standing on the station platforms, and walking to and from the starting station. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
  • A Ventra ('L' train) pass is needed to take part in this tour. You can purchase a Ventra pass for an additional fee of $5.50 at the CAC Box Office. Please arrive 10-15 minutes before the tour start time.
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

    • Every station where we look at buildings* (*1 of the stops is for the station itself, not the surrounding architecture) includes 100 years of Chicago architecture in one place, a unique historic review. And, guests are entertained and surprised by how our elevated train system came about.
      Steven RedfieldCAC Docent
    • I felt I gleaned a lot of historical perspective of the foundation of Chicago along with the political climate that formed the building of the city as we know it today.
      Tour Attendee
    • I will never again travel the L the same way, always loved it but now I got the new awareness and appreciation for each ride!
      Tour Attendee
  • Group of people standing on elevated train platform with building in distance

    Van Buren L Station

  • Group of people sitting inside Chicago CTA train car

    Interior of train car

  • Looking up at reddish beige building

    Fisher Building

  • Exterior view of angled beige building with many small windows

    Metropolitan Correctional Center

Buildings on This Tour

See All Buildings of Chicago

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
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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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