Murals by Bus: Pilsen

  • A modern architectural building with windows and geometric patterns

    Cooper Elementary Dual Language Academy

Explore Pilsen’s vibrant murals, showcasing Mexican-American culture and mural-making traditions on Chicago’s West Side.

This tour currently has no scheduled dates.

  • A modern architectural building with windows and geometric patterns

    Cooper Elementary Dual Language Academy

Chicago has a long tradition of mural making, and the West Side's Pilsen neighborhood displays a wide variety of these public works of art.

Duration
3.5 hours
Site Type
Neighborhoods
Location
Westside
Architects and Styles
Meet

Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Wacker Dr.

Pilsen is widely recognized as one of Chicago's most mural-rich neighborhoods. Muralists have been working in this Mexican-American community since the early 1960s, and today there are a growing collection of younger artists continuing in the tradition. This tour focuses on 16th and 19th Streets, with stops to go inside buildings to view lesser-known and not often seen work. From traditional Mexican-style techniques to Venetian glass mosaics to more contemporary graffiti-inspired forms, the afternoon will be a true immersion in mural making.


Know before you go:
  • The bus has steps and is not completely ADA accessible.
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.
  • A colorful mural, featuring abstract shapes and vibrant patterns.

    18th Street Pink Line L stop

  • A vibrant mural at the 18th Street Pink Line L Stop in Pilsen, featuring colorful artwork.

    18th Street Pink Line L stop

  • A modern architectural building with a glass facade and geometric patterns

    Cooper Elementary Dual Language Academy

  • Brightly colored mural on the side of a brick building

    Mural in the Pilsen neighborhood

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.

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Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your walking or bus tour.

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