Chicago Walking Tour: Connecting Past and Present

This lively overview of Chicago architecture explores iconic buildings from the 1890s to present. We’ll compare and contrast a wide range of buildings with varying architectural styles and see how older structures connect to new skyline additions.
On this tour, we’ll make seven stops in downtown Chicago where we can compare the histories and styles of buildings located within sight of each other. The tour features 19th-Century Commercial, Beaux-Arts, Mid-Century Modern and Postmodern buildings, as well as the latest in architecture from Frank Gehry, Renzo Piano and Adrian Smith. At each stop, we’ll look at the connections between the past and present and discover what inspires design today. The tour culminates with a visit to Millennium Park, where world-class art and architecture combine, creating a unique urban fabric. As a certified nonprofit, all CAC ticket purchases directly support our education efforts and community engagement projects.

Begin and end the tour at the Chicago Architecture Center.

View the Wrigley Building and some of the surrounding buildings

View the Daley Center and surrounding buildings

View the Reliance Building and surrounding buildings

View the Pritzker Pavilion and surrounding buildings

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

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• Admission to the Galleries of the Chicago Architecture Center
• Walking tour featuring some of Chicago’s most famous buildings
• Narration by a professional and certified guide

• Coat check
• Food and drink
• Storage for luggage and strollers

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Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the departure time and present your ticket to the box office at the Chicago Architecture Center.

Please be advised..

• This Tour is Provided by Chicago Architecture Center.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at America/Chicago.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• This Tour is Rated 5 Stars based on 23 valid reviews on VIATOR.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 10 Travelers is accepted for booking.