- Walking
- Premier
Motor Row
This tour currently has no scheduled dates.
Take a trip back into the Golden Age of the automobile when all your automotive needs could be found in what remains the most intact historic automotive mall in the United States.
Architects and Styles
Meet
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago McCormick Place lobby, 123 E. Cermak Road.
The Landmark Motor Row Historic District contains more than 50 buildings related to early 20th century automotive history. Hear stories of Chicago's rich architectural and automotive history prompted by significant buildings and visualize what this incomparable area was and what revitalization and change can bring.
Chicago's Motor Row Historic District is recognized as an official Historic Landmark District. During the first part of the 20th century over 100 automobile manufacturers and dealers established dealerships on Michigan Ave. between 14th and 24th Streets including Hudson, Marmon, Thomas Flyer, Cadillac, Premier, F.I.A.T. Stevens Duryea, Locomobile, Auburn and Cord. Architects prominent in the era like Alfred Alschuler, Philip Maher, Holabird and Roche and others found the automotive industry a prime source of commissions. Many significant buildings in a variety of styles remain in this once thriving district known as Motor Row.
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.
BEHIND THE TOUR: MOTOR ROW
Have you ever wondered what inspires our tours? Cruise through the story of our Motor Row tour, a perennial CAC favorite.
Tour reviews
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.
Buildings of Chicago
Group & Private Tours
CAC offers discounted rates and customized options for groups and tour operators. Learn about options here.
Free Center Entry with Your Ticket
Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your walking or bus tour.