Chicago Architecture, History and Culture Loop Walking Tour

The DuSable Bridge on Michigan Ave. is where Chicago’s story begins, and so does ours! We’ll discuss how and why this particular spot on the shores of Lake Michigan became one of the world’s most important cities.(10 min)

A beautiful Art Deco skyscraper that exemplifies how to repurpose buildings. Plus, its design has a secret story!(5 min)

The dazzling marquee is one of the most famous signs in Chicago (second only to Wrigley Field). We’ll learn about the ups-and-downs of this grand movie palace and find out about a secret symbol to look for throughout the rest of the tour.(10 min)

Now a Macy’s, we’ll stroll through the massive store, see its Tiffany stained glass mosaic and atrium while talking about the innovations created within that are still in use in modern department stores.(15 min)

Opened as Chicago’s first library in 1897, the Cultural Center boasts arguably the most beautiful interior of any publicly accessible building in the city. And yet, many Chicagoans have never set foot inside it, making it the ultimate hidden gem in the middle of downtown.(20 min)

Millennium Park transformed 24 acres of railroad tracks and parking lots into the city’s centerpiece. We’ll explore the park’s highlights, including Pritzker Pavilion, Crown Fountain and, of course, the iconic Bean.(30 min)

The Palmer House traces its origins to pre-Fire Chicago, and was once the largest hotel in the world. Its lobby remains a marvel of Jazz Age decor.(15 min)

Pablo Picasso’s sculpture in the heart of downtown polarized locals when it was unveiled in 1967, but has since become a source of pride. We’ll talk about how Picasso, who never visited Chicago, came to create a piece for the city, and try to figure out what it is.(10 min)