CAC Recommends: June 18

This week, we’re taking a look at one of the things we do best at the CAC: lead tours focused on—and celebrating—Chicago’s fascinating architecture.

The Chicago Architecture Center is excited to reinstate select walking tours beginning June 20. Tours are limited to six attendees. Review our safety policies for CAC walking tours and learn more about private and custom tour options now available: My Social Circle and Architecture Conversations.

Need help choosing a CAC walking tour? Consider these favorites selected by CAC staff.

MUST-SEE CHICAGO

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If you only have time for one walking tour, it’s all in the name: Must-See Chicago! This tour gives you a fantastic introduction to some of Chicago’s most iconic buildings. Must-See Chicago is exciting and fast-paced, making you feel like you are a part of the hustle and bustle of downtown Chicago. There is so much to see downtown, and this tour makes it easy and fun to learn about some of the buildings that make Chicago’s architecture world-class. —Michele Kuhn, Coordinator of Volunteer Services

CHICAGO ARCHITECTURE: A WALK THROUGH TIME

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I love this tour! It’s great because the featured buildings are presented in chronological order. It’s really neat to see how the city grew as architects learned more about materials and design. —Caroline Duda, Manager of Volunteer Services

FULTON-RANDOLPH MARKET: FROM GRITTY TO GOURMET

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I enjoy the Fulton Market tour because it shows how a neighborhood can adapt to changing times, but still stay true to its original intent. You get an insider look at all the hip new places popping up in the area. Pro tip: make a reservation at one of the local restaurants to continue your experience after the tour. —Caroline Duda, Manager of Volunteer Services

HISTORIC SKYSCRAPERS

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This was the first walking tour I took when I started working at the CAC. It ignited my love of architecture and Chicago’s history. Tour takers will get an up-close look at 19th century skyscrapers and learn how building innovations literally transformed Chicago. Be on the lookout for the Monadnock Building, with its six-foot-thick brick façade. At 16 stories, it is still the tallest load-bearing building in the world. —Hallie Rosen, Director of Program Services