Chicago Walking Tour: Modern Architecture

Chicago, US
93% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (48 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Admission to the galleries of the chicago architecture center
  • inclusion
    Walking tour of chicago's modern and postmodern architecture
  • inclusion
    Narration by a professional and certified guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • exclusion
    Storage for luggage or strollers
  • exclusion
    Coat check

Meeting Point

Meet at the Chicago Architecture Center at 111 E Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL, 60601

Meeting point

111 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601 , United States

End point

End Point

Meet at the Chicago Architecture Center at 111 E Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL, 60601

Meeting point

111 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Chicago Architecture Center

Your tour begins at the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC), formerly the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Visit the CAC to view a 4,000-building scale model of Chicago or shop in the award-winning store.

Duration 10 minutes
2

One Prudential Plaza

View the Prudential Building.

3

Aon Center

View the Aon Center.

4

Inland Steel Building

View the Inland Steel Building.

5

Daley Center

Marvel at Richard J. Daley Center, one of the first buildings to be covered in an unpainted steel called Cor-Ten. The docent will also discuss the famous "Chicago Picasso" artwork in the plaza.

Duration 15 minutes
6

AMA Plaza

Discuss the AMA Plaza, formerly home to the office of Mies van der Rohe.

7

Marina City

Highlights include Marina City, a mixed-use residential-commercial building designed by architect Bertrand Goldberg, envisioned as an urban experiment designed to draw middle-class Chicagoans back to the city after more than a decade of suburban migration.

Duration 15 minutes
8

Apple Michigan Avenue

View the Apple Store on Michigan Avenue.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Pets are not allowed.
  • Additional information
    The itinerary of this tour is subject to change without notice.
Provided by Chicago Architecture Center

What our experts say

  • icon
    Visit the CAC shop for unique souvenirs
  • icon
    Consider lunch at Lou Malnati's nearby
  • icon
    Check out the 'Chicago Picasso' at Daley Center
  • icon
    Take public transport to save time
  • icon
    Dress in layers for changing weather

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the wonders of modern architecture on the Chicago Walking Tour: Modern Architecture. Chicago, with its impressive skyline and iconic buildings, is a treasure trove for architecture enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the history and significance of Mid-Century Modern architecture as you explore the city's prominent landmarks and learn about the visionaries behind them.

What to expect?

During this 90-minute tour, you can expect to embark on a captivating journey through Chicago's architectural wonders. Your adventure begins at the Chicago Architecture Center, where you can admire a scale model of the city's impressive skyline or browse the award-winning store. As you make your way through the city, you'll encounter notable buildings such as the Prudential Building, the Aon Center, and the Inland Steel Building. Marvel at the innovative design of the Richard J. Daley Center, a striking example of unpainted steel architecture, and learn about the significance of the "Chicago Picasso" artwork in its plaza. Your tour also includes highlights like Marina City, a visionary residential-commercial building designed to revitalize Chicago's urban landscape.

Who is this for?

The Chicago Walking Tour: Modern Architecture is perfect for anyone with an interest in iconic buildings, public art, urban planning, or government. Whether you're a seasoned architecture enthusiast or simply curious about the city's architectural heritage, this tour offers a comprehensive experience suitable for all. Architecture students, history buffs, and travelers seeking a unique way to explore the city will find this tour particularly enriching.

Why book this?

By booking the Chicago Walking Tour: Modern Architecture, you'll be supporting a certified nonprofit organization dedicated to education and community engagement projects. Not only will you immerse yourself in the world of architecture, but you'll also contribute to the preservation and promotion of Chicago's architectural heritage. This tour gives you the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the stories and people behind these remarkable buildings, providing a unique perspective on the city's evolution.

Good to know

As you embark on this tour, keep in mind that its total duration is approximately 90 minutes. The meeting point is the Chicago Architecture Center at 111 E Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL, 60601. Make sure to arrive on time to fully enjoy this captivating experience. The tour includes several notable landmarks, such as the Apple Store on Michigan Avenue and the picturesque Chicago River. Prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking views and to delve into the architectural secrets that this vibrant city holds.

Reviews

Previous participants have raved about the Chicago Walking Tour: Modern Architecture, praising its knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling. Visitors have left with a newfound appreciation for the city's architectural legacy and have been inspired by the innovative designs they encountered. The tour has received high ratings for its educational value and ability to cater to both architecture enthusiasts and those with a general interest in history and culture. Experience the magic of Chicago's modern architecture through the eyes of those who have already embarked on this captivating journey.

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