Hotel Boom: Making Old New Again

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Learn about the benefits and challenges of adaptive reuse.
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Chicago’s growth as a favorite travel destination has fueled a surge in the creative repurposing of historic skyscrapers into chic new hotels. Learn how and why a former motor club, insurance company and bank have undergone this change.

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

Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Wacker Dr.

This fast paced walking tour will explore the interior and exterior of several hotels. Learn about the benefits and challenges of adaptive reuse and hear what makes these buildings iconic. Stops include LondonHouse, Pendry Chicago and The Langham.

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

    • We love [this tour] because it sheds light on adaptive reuse and what a win/win situation it is. We also love it because guests get inspirations on where they want to go for cocktails, or where they want their next staycation or where they want their friends and relatives to stay. The interior are hidden gems they don't see on everyday walks.
      Bobbi PinkertCAC Docent
  • An interior photo of the The Langham Hotel featuring an art installation hung from the ceiling.

    The Langham Hotel. Photo by John Hill.

  • A photo of the outside of Hampton Inn Motor Club

    Hampton Inn Motor Club. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

  • A view of the lobby of the Hampton Inn Motor Club.

    Hampton Inn Motor Club. 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.

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