Historic Treasures of Chicago’s Golden Age

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Learn about the great architectural landmarks of Michigan Avenue and State Street.
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The 40 years between 1890 and 1930 saw the creation of some of Chicago’s the most memorable buildings. Tour includes visits to the interiors of the Chicago Cultural Center, Palmer House and Macy's on State.

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

Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Wacker Dr.

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.

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

    • Historic Treasures of Chicago's Golden Age is more than just a tour of beautiful buildings. It helps tell the story of a remarkable American city.
      Leslie Clark LewisCAC Docent
    • I took the historic treasures of Chicago walking tour this past Friday. It was a really fun tour with lots of interesting facts about the history of Chicago, and some of the important people that helped define the city. Our guide René was great! Very knowledgeable and fun to be around and made the tour even more interesting, I would highly recommend taking this architectural tour if you are visiting or want to learn more about Chicago!
      Scott R.
    • My father and I have lived in Chicago all our lives I know a decent amount of Chicago history and even we walked away glad for having taken this tour! Chris P. was our guide and did a great job informing us about the actual stops as well as other tidbits along the way. As a citizen of a city this rich there is always more to learn and I was so glad to learn some interesting facts I do not think I would have otherwise. Walking distance was decent, but manageable and we had a great time. I will definitely seek out more events and ways to participate with the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Bonus- the model of the City in the actual Foundation was a blast to look at. Thanks so much!
      Valerie N.
  • A photo of the Wrigley building as seen from across the river.

    Wrigley building

  • Photo of the Cultural Center as seen at street-level.

    Cultural Center. Photo courtesy of Eric Allix Rogers.

  • Photo of the Carbide and Carbon Building

    Carbide and Carbon Building. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

  • A photo of the corner of the Reliance building as seen from the steet.

    Reliance Building

  • a photo of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel

    Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

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.

Visit the Center