Chicago: Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour

The Chicago: Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour offers an engaging exploration of the city’s iconic architectural marvels. Led by certified local guides, the 1.5-hour tour delves into the rich history and design elements of five stunning Art Deco skyscraper lobbies, including the Carbide and Carbon Building and the Chicago Motor Club Building. Participants will discover the captivating geometric ornamentation and intricate details that define this influential architectural style. With a reasonable price of $22.43 per person, the tour not only showcases Chicago’s architectural heritage but also supports educational initiatives in the community. Prepare to be captivated by the city’s timeless Art Deco treasures.

Key Points

• A 1.5-hour walking tour that provides access to the lobbies of five iconic Art Deco skyscrapers in Chicago.
• Explore the architectural features and historical significance of Art Deco style, including its influences and prominence during the 1920s.
• Led by certified local guides from the Chicago Architecture Center, who offer insights into the history and design of the buildings.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and refunds available, with tours operating rain or shine.
• The tour supports educational initiatives of the Chicago Architecture Center and helps provide free public access to architectural marvels.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

For those interested in exploring Chicago’s captivating Art Deco architecture, the Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour offers a compelling 1.5-hour experience.

Priced at $22.43 per person, the tour grants visitors access to the lobbies of five iconic Art Deco skyscrapers near the Chicago River. Reserving your spot in advance is recommended, as the tour is likely to sell out.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours prior for a full refund. The tour begins at 30 N LaSalle Street, where attendees should arrive 10 minutes early with their confirmation.

Led by certified local guides, the experience promises an informative journey through Chicago’s rich Art Deco heritage.

Art Deco Style and Historical Context

The Art Deco architectural style gained prominence in Chicago during the 1920s, showcased at the 1933-1934 Century of Progress Exposition.

This style is characterized by lavish materials and geometric ornamentation, reflecting the prosperity of the Roaring 20s. Popular motifs include zigzags, octagons, sunbursts, and flowers, influenced by Cubism and ancient Middle Eastern art.

The distinctive style celebrates modernity and the machine age, which aligns with the city’s reputation for innovative architecture and engineering.

This walking tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and historical significance of Chicago’s iconic Art Deco skyscrapers.

Tour Highlights and Experience

On this immersive walking tour, visitors explore the lobbies of five iconic Art Deco skyscrapers near the Chicago River.

They’ll admire the lavish materials and geometric ornamentation of the Carbide and Carbon Building, now the St. Jane Hotel, and the Chicago Motor Club Building, now the Hampton Inn.

The tour also visits the Trustees System Service Building, now Century Tower, and the Engineering Building, all shining examples of the Art Deco style that flourished in Chicago during the 1920s.

Certified local guides from the Chicago Architecture Center lead the way, sharing insights into the history and design of these architectural marvels.

Meeting Point and Arrival Time

At 30 N LaSalle Street, visitors will find the meeting point for the Chicago Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour. Guests should arrive at the location 10 minutes early with their confirmation in hand.

The tour guides will be readily available to greet participants and ensure a smooth start to the experience.

The meeting point features:

• A bustling central location in the heart of the city
• Easy access to public transportation and nearby parking
• Ample space for the tour group to gather before setting off
• Visible signage and landmarks to help identify the starting point

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Cancellation Policy and Refunds

Visitors can take advantage of the tour’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund. No refunds are provided for weather-related cancellations, as the tours operate rain or shine. To ensure a smooth experience, attendees are asked to arrive 10 minutes early with their confirmation and avoid bringing pets, luggage, or large bags.

Policy	Details
Cancellation	Free up to 24 hours in advance
Refunds	Full refund for cancellations
Weather	Tours operate rain or shine, no refunds
Arrival Time	10 minutes early with confirmation
Prohibited Items	Pets, luggage, large bags

Community Impact and Support

Ticket purchases for the Chicago Art Deco Skyscrapers Tour support the educational initiatives of the Chicago Architecture Center, such as the Girls Build! and Teen Fellows programs.

Contributions help keep programs like Open House Chicago free for participants. The Center is a certified nonprofit focused on local education and community engagement.

Their initiatives include:

• Inspiring the next generation of architects and designers through hands-on workshops and mentorship programs
• Providing free public access to architectural marvels across the city
• Partnering with community organizations to foster a deeper appreciation for Chicago’s rich architectural heritage
• Investing in the continued growth and development of the local creative community

Customer Feedback and Ratings

The tours have received overwhelmingly positive reviews from past participants.

With an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 22 reviews, the tour has been praised for its informative and engaging guides, as well as its excellent value for money.

Participants have highlighted the guides’ depth of knowledge and ability to bring the Art Deco architecture to life.

The tours’ focus on iconic Chicago skyscrapers and their historical context has also been widely appreciated.

Tour Logistics and Restrictions

Attending the Chicago Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour requires a few considerations.

The tour doesn’t allow pets, luggage, or large bags, though service animals are welcome. Guests should arrive 10 minutes early with their confirmation to the meeting point at 30 N LaSalle Street.

Participants should also note that the tour happens rain or shine, and no refunds are given due to weather conditions.

While the overall tour experience is highly rated, it’s important for visitors to plan accordingly and follow the guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable exploration of Chicago’s iconic Art Deco architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, guests are welcome to take photos during the tour. The tour highlights the iconic Art Deco architecture, providing an excellent opportunity for capturing memorable images of the stunning buildings and interiors.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is fairly accessible for individuals with disabilities, though it involves walking between several downtown skyscrapers. Visitors with mobility issues can notify the tour operator in advance to accommodate their needs.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the duration of the Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour. The tour is fixed at 1.5 hours, but visitors can explore the buildings further on their own after the guided portion ends.

Do the Guides Offer the Tour in Languages Other Than English?

The tour guides offer the Chicago Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour in English only. They don’t provide multi-language options, but they’re highly knowledgeable and aim to deliver an informative and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention student or senior discounts. However, it’s possible the Chicago Architecture Center may offer discounted tickets for these groups, so customers should inquire about availability when booking.

Recap

The Chicago: Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s iconic skyscrapers and gain insights into the rich architectural history. With knowledgeable guides, stunning art deco designs, and community support, the tour provides an engaging and educational experience for visitors. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply curious about Chicago’s past, this tour is a must-visit for those seeking to uncover the city’s hidden gems.

You can check if your dates are available here: