History of the Jazz Age at Chicago Art Deco Architecture Tour

Dive into the center of the architectural boom of the roaring 1920s and take a chance to enjoy the grand facades of the Art Deco skyscrapers on this guided walking tour.

Go back in history while admiring one of the epicenters of the style’s birth. Immerse yourself into the life of the Windy City between World War I and World War II, the time when the design evolved and turned into neo archaic Mesoamerican grandeur, which can’t leave anyone indifferent. Be delighted with the variety of decorations and geometrical shapes which distinguish Art-Deco from Neoclassicism.

Uncover the stories behind the famous Loop district of Chicago. Delve into the atmosphere of the 1920s as you listen to more insights and facts from your enthusiastic local guide. Overview the history and pay attention to the details you wouldn’t notice without a tour. Grab the chance to get inside famous buildings and revel in the Art Deco interiors.

Observe the 30 N La Salle St building, completed in 1975 in the place where Chicago Stock Exchange Building stood. Get to know the story about one of the classic works of early skyscraper design with a highly textured and open façade. After the building was demolished, some of its fragments were preserved and relocated to the Art Institute of Chicago, for example a stenciled trading room, and the arch from the main entrance.

Get inside the masterwork of Daniel Burnham and John Wellborn Root completed in 1888, after admiring its opulent exterior. The building is considered the oldest standing high-rise in Chicago thus being in a transition stage from old to new construction techniques. Get a chance to see the lobby renovated by Frank Lloyd Wright and later by his former assistant William Drummond who gave the lobby an Art Deco detailing and brought new interior elements relevant for the time.

Head on to another Chicago Art Deco architectural landmark which is Field Building, also called La Salle National Bank Building. It was completed in 1934 featuring east and west façade entrances which rise the entire height of the four-story base and are framed in black granite. It is also known for being the first office structure in Chicago to be air-conditioned. Apart from that, this was built on the site, where Home Insurance Building stood, the first tall building considered the world’s first skyscraper.

Recall Great Gatsby while marveling at the landmark building of One North La Salle, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For 35 years, since its birth in 1930, the building was the tallest structure in Chicago rising up to 160 m and 48 stories. Now it remains a marvelous example of Art Deco skyscrapers with a gorgeous golden entrance and its tall and elaborately decorated portal.

Feel the real touch of the roaring 20s continuing to the regal 45-story skyscraper of the Chicago Board of Trade Building, an epitome of Art Deco styling. Being one of the best examples of the design in Chicago it gives you a unique opportunity to witness a great contrast to Neoclassical neighboring buildings. Follow your guide to capture all the ornamentation details and reveal what exactly they illustrate making an alloy of the ancient and the modern.

Your architecture immersion won’t be complete without a visit to the Chicago Architecture Center, located at 111 E Wacker Dr. It is a perfect starting point to discover the Windy City’s gorgeous buildings and their legacy. Located right above the Chicago Riverwalk it offers stunning views of the city, inside there is an amazing Skyscraper Gallery for you to enjoy, making that place a must-visit for every architecture geek.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Access to building interiors featured on this tour may be subject to change, due to weekend and holiday schedules or unforeseen closures.

• History of the Jazz Age at Chicago Art Deco Architecture Tour
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• Iconic places for photoshoot
• Admission to the Galleries of the Chicago Architecture Center
• Professional local expert guide
• Ideal for Instagram lovers
• Explore the best of Downtown Chicago Art Deco architecture
• Small-group walking tour
• All Fees and Taxes

• Gratuities

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Please be advised..

• This Tour is Provided by Friendly Local Guides.
• 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.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 10 Travelers is accepted for booking.