Interior Treasures of the Golden Age
Discover the design of the Gilded Age and Roaring Twenties, from lush Tiffany mosaics and glass to sleek Art Deco bronze and marble, and see how Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair shaped architecture for decades.
- Walking
- Essential
Chicago Architecture: A Walk Through Time
Close up of NBC Tower. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.
NBC Tower. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers
Journey through Chicago’s architectural evolution, from the Great Fire’s aftermath to new supertall high-rises.
Close up of NBC Tower. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.
NBC Tower. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers
Want a quick introduction to Chicago’s magnificent architecture? This 90-minute tour takes a comprehensive look at the city’s architectural history by viewing buildings in chronological order, from early skyscrapers to new supertall high-rises.
Meet
Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Wacker Dr.
On this tour, you'll learn about the city's beginnings on the Chicago River, its rebirth after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and its development into a commercial and cultural hub, all while viewing structures in the order they were built. These buildings — including the Page Brothers Building, Old Dearborn Bank, the Chicago Motor Club, the Carbide and Carbon Building, NBC Tower and more — tell the story of how architectural technology evolved over time. You'll see up close how each building has its own unique design, often reflecting the style that was popular or prevalent when it was constructed.
Tour reviews
Carbide & Carbon Building. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.
Hampton Inn Motor Club. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.
111 E. Wacker Dr. Photo by Angie McMonigal.
Virgin Hotel. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.
ABC Building. Photo by Dennis O'Neill.
NBC Tower. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.
The Page Brothers Building. Photo by Dennis O'Neill.
St Regis. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.
Tour Accessibility
CAC is committed to improving access to our tours. The accessibility information below reflects our docents’ experience and is provided for general guidance only.
What to expect on this tour
Terrain & Surfaces
Easy - Paved and flat the entire route
Wheelchair & Walker Access
Easy - Fully accessible; no barriers
Steps or Stairs
Moderate - Step-free alternate route available
Hearing Access
Easy - Quiet setting, easy to hear
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Featured Buildings
Free Center Entry with Your Ticket
Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your walking or bus tour.
