Walking Tour: Chicago's Prairie Ave Dist. - Street of the Elite

Chicago, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (19 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Transit tickets
  • inclusion
    Church and glessner house donation/fee
  • inclusion
    Local expert guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities
  • exclusion
    Food and beverages

Meeting Point

Find your guide inside lobby, immediately to left

Meeting point

12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603 , United States

End point

End Point

We end our tour with a sweet treat at this beautiful historic building

Meeting point

17 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Chicago Athletic Association - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Meet your guide and kick things off with a tour of this historic hotel. Then we'll head to Washington & Wabash to board the Green line train to the Prairie District.

Duration 50 minutes
Admission Admission Included
2

Chess Records

After a brief stroll from the Cermak L station, guests will learn about the building that produced some of the most well-known and influential Blues music of Chicago.

Duration 30 minutes
3

Second Presbyterian Church of Chicago

Guests will receive a private docent-led mini tour.

Duration 40 minutes
Admission Admission Included
4

Spoke & Bird Cafe (South Loop)

Take a break and enjoy a snack at this unique employee-owned/woman-owned cafe (purchases optional).

Duration 30 minutes
5

Glessner House Museum

Guests will receive a private docent-led mini tour.

Duration 40 minutes
Admission Admission Included
6

Clarke House Museum

Guests will see the oldest house in Chicago and learn how elite Chicagoans lived at the turn of the century.

Duration 10 minutes
7

Palmer House Hilton Historic Lobby

After our train ride back to the Loop, we'll explore the beautiful interior of this famous building and end the tour with a sweet treat.

Duration 40 minutes

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
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    Should be able to climb stairs as not all train stations are equipped with elevators
Provided by L Stop Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try the snacks at the cafe break.
  • icon
    Visit nearby Grant Park after the tour.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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    Check out the Tiffany windows at church.
  • icon
    Explore the Palmer House's rich history.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the grandeur of Chicago's Prairie Ave District with the captivating Walking Tour: Chicago Prairie Ave District - Street of the Elite. Journey back in time and immerse yourself in the luxurious lifestyles of the city's wealthiest residents at the turn of the century. This extraordinary tour takes you on a memorable exploration of historic sites, iconic mansions, and hidden gems that will leave you in awe.

What to expect?

During this 240-minute tour, you can expect a fascinating journey through Chicago's history and architecture. Meet your knowledgeable guide in the lobby of the stunning Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, where you'll begin by exploring its historic charms. From there, board the Green Line train to the Prairie Ave District, where you'll encounter Motor Row, Chess Records, and the oldest house in the city. Delight in the serene beauty of a park and be treated to TWO private docent-led mini tours at the magnificent Second Presbyterian Church, known for its exquisite Tiffany windows, and the iconic Glessner House.

Who is this for?

This exceptional tour is perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Chicago's elite society from the past. Whether you're a local looking to uncover hidden gems or a visitor eager to explore the city's rich history, this tour offers something for everyone. The Chicago Prairie Ave District Walking Tour invites curious minds of all ages and backgrounds to discover the opulent lifestyles and vibrant stories of Chicago's elite inhabitants.

Why book this?

Embark on this unique walking tour to witness the remnants of Chicago's rich past. With private mini tours at both the awe-inspiring Second Presbyterian Church and the iconic Glessner House, you'll gain exclusive access to places that hold significant historical and architectural importance. Along the way, take a break at a local employee-owned/woman-owned café to savor a delectable snack and support the community. End your tour at the elegant Palmer House Hotel, where you can indulge in a sweet treat. This immersive experience provides an opportunity to connect with Chicago's architectural heritage and uncover the stories of the city's elite residents.

Good to know

This walking tour is a 240-minute journey through the Prairie Ave District, filled with historical landmarks and breathtaking architecture. The itinerary includes stops at Motor Row, the oldest house in Chicago, and a picturesque park. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for this leisurely stroll. Along the way, you'll have the chance to support a local employee-owned/woman-owned café, where you can purchase a delicious snack. The tour ends with a sweet treat at the luxurious Palmer House Hotel. Prepare to be captivated by Chicago's rich history and the opulence of the Prairie Ave District.

Reviews

Customers who have embarked on the Walking Tour: Chicago Prairie Ave District - Street of the Elite have been amazed by the tour's depth of historical and architectural knowledge. They appreciate the exclusive access to iconic landmarks such as the Second Presbyterian Church with its stunning Tiffany windows. The guides' expertise and passion for the subject matter shine through, making the experience even more captivating. Travelers have been particularly impressed by the well-preserved mansions and the tour's ability to transport them back in time. Overall, visitors commend the tour for its combination of fascinating history, unique sights, and insightful stories that bring the Prairie Ave District to life.

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