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 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.

Know before you go:
  • Preston Bradley Hall will be closed all through March 2025. This tour should be able to peek in to the building, but will not be able to enter the space. 

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

    Cultural Center. Photo courtesy of Eric Allix Rogers.

  • A photo of the Wrigley building as seen from across the river.

    Wrigley building

  • 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.

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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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