Chicago: Historic Skyscrapers Guided Walking Tour
West Side, Chicago, Chicago
Explore famous buildings and architecture on a walking tour in Chicago, home to some of the world's earliest skyscrapers. See why Chicago is often called "The Birthplace of the Skyscraper."
This walking tour in Chicago suits architecture enthusiasts interested in historic skyscrapers and the city’s late 19th-century architectural innovations.
Highlights
- Explore some of Chicago's most historic skyscrapers
- Learn how skyscrapers transformed 19th-century urban culture
- Discover Chicago’s role as a pioneer in architectural design
- Guided by a Chicago Architecture Foundation-trained local expert
Description
Step back to the late 19th century and experience early tall buildings that reshaped Chicago after the Great Fire. This walking tour immerses you in the city’s architectural history with an expert local guide.
Key stops include Burnham and Root’s Rookery (1888) featuring a Moorish and Romanesque exterior and a Frank Lloyd Wright–redesigned atrium; Adler and Sullivan’s Auditorium Building (1889), known for acoustical and structural innovation; and Holabird and Roche’s Marquette Building (1895), an exemplary Chicago commercial design.
Purchasing tickets supports the Chicago Architecture Center’s community education initiatives, including programs like Girls Build!, Teen Fellows, and Open House Chicago, ensuring ongoing access and outreach.
Includes
- Certified docent from the Chicago Architecture Foundation
- Admission to the Chicago Architecture Center gallery
- Guided walking tour
Excludes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Storage for luggage or strollers
Important Information
- All tours are led by certified volunteer docents extensively trained in Chicago's architecture and history.
- This tour cannot provide secure storage for luggage or strollers.
- Tours operate rain or shine with no refunds for weather-related cancellations.
- Pets are not permitted; service animals are welcome.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, wear comfortable walking shoes and check the weather forecast before your tour.
