Overview
This short but sweet and unique adventure will take you on a 2-hour walking tour by the interiors of the most iconic buildings of Chicago downtown.
Dive into the extravaganza of splendid hidden gems of the city as you explore the details that no mainstream tours can offer. The itinerary is thoroughly designed by a professional local guide who knows every corner of the Chicago skyscrapers.
• Get beyond the famous facades to experience the surprising interiors of the neighborhood
• Follow your local guide to discover what’s hidden from most of the tourists
• Be provided with fun and surprising facts about the destinations
• The tour is interesting for the Chi guests as well as for the residents.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Amazing experience for architecture lovers
History, architecture and art tour of Chicago
All Fees and Taxes
Local expert guide
Gratuities
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Meet the guide in front of 425 S. Financial Place (near the large metal horse sculpture)
End point
Finish the tour at Chicago Cultural Center for further exploration
What to expect
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Chicago Board Of Trade Building
25 min
Get up close and personal with one of the most iconic structures of the Windy City with Ceres statue on the top, the goddess of fertility. It is not random, the building housed the largest Grain Exchange. It was constructed by John A. Holabird and John Wellborn Root Jr. during the heyday of art deco in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Enter the Chicago Board of Trade and be amazed by polished surfaces and black and white marble. Learn some fun and interesting fact about the construction and its history. If you are an art or architecture buff, this tour is just for you.
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The Rookery Building
25 min
Visit the masterpiece of Danial Burnham and John Wellborn, which was built in 1888. Be amazed by the beautiful and spacious light court that provides daylight for the offices inside the building. Explore the eye-opening details of the interior, oriel staircase, and interesting innovations of that time. Learn why the building was spared during the redevelopment and reconstruction of the Loop district, remaining a wonderful architectural landmark of the 19th century. Be provided with a lot of information from your guide who knows the place so well, you'll discover stuff, not even the locals know.
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South Federal Street
1 hour
One more special interior visit awaits you on this tour, but it’s going to be a pleasant surprise.
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Chicago Cultural Center
10 min
Finish the tour inside the Chicago Cultural Center
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Chicago).
Additional Information
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 9 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Chicago Architecture, Art and History Tour - Off The Beaten Path
Can I cancel Chicago Architecture, Art and History Tour - Off The Beaten Path for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 2 hours.
Where does it start?
Meet the guide in front of 425 S. Financial Place (near the large metal horse sculpture)
What's included?
- Amazing experience for architecture lovers
- History, architecture and art tour of Chicago
- Local expert guide
What's not included?
- Gratuities
Which places does it visit?
It visits Chicago Board Of Trade Building, The Rookery Building, South Federal Street, Chicago Cultural Center.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Friendly Local Guides















