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
Deck the Hotel Lobbies
Elevator Lobby at the LondonHouse Hotel. Photo by Amy Ulivieri, courtesy of the LondonHouse Hotel.
Discover six historic Chicago hotels dressed up for the holidays and explore the stories behind their architectural transformations.
Elevator Lobby at the LondonHouse Hotel. Photo by Amy Ulivieri, courtesy of the LondonHouse Hotel.
This holiday season, step inside six Chicago hotel lobbies and uncover the stories behind their transformations from historic office buildings to some of the city’s most distinctive places to stay.
Meet
Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Wacker Dr.
Chicago’s reputation as a travel destination has helped inspire a new chapter for some of its most iconic buildings. On this fast-paced walking tour, explore the interiors and exteriors of six hotels, each with its own architectural character and history.
Stops include The LondonHouse, The Langham, Hotel Chicago, Silversmith Hotel, Chicago Athletic Association Hotel and Staypineapple. Discover how these buildings have been reimagined for modern guests, learn about the benefits and challenges of adaptive reuse and uncover the design details that make each hotel unique.
Tour reviews
The lobby at the LondonHouse Hotel with holiday decorations. Photo by Amy Ulivieri, courtesy of the LondonHouse Hotel.
The rotunda at the LondonHouse Hotel with holiday decorations. Photo by Amy Ulivieri, courtesy of the LondonHouse Hotel with holiday decor.
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
Easy - No stairs, step-free route
Hearing Access
Easy - Quiet setting, easy to hear, but listening devices provided if needed
Similar Tours
- Walking
- Walking
Modernism: Reviving the Loop
Iconic buildings, public art, urban planning and government influence — this tour covers it all.
- Walking
Chicago Icons: Connecting Past and Present
Compare and contrast iconic buildings from the 1890s to present and learn how older structures relate to new skyline additions. - Walking
Palmer House Hotel
Experience the glamour, intrigue and excitement of the Palmer House, a "Grand Hotel" and an official Chicago Landmark.
Featured buildings on this tour
Free Center Entry with Your Ticket
Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your walking or bus tour.
