Chicago Architecture Center's logo
Chicago Architecture Center Homepage

Devil in the White City

  • A serene Japanese garden with a winding stone pathway bordered by lush greenery, leading to a tranquil pond reflecting overhanging trees and a pagoda-style structure in the background.

    Osaka Garden and Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

Step back in time to the 1893 World’s Fair with a tour that highlights Chicago’s historic architecture and the fascinating stories behind it.
  • A serene Japanese garden with a winding stone pathway bordered by lush greenery, leading to a tranquil pond reflecting overhanging trees and a pagoda-style structure in the background.

    Osaka Garden and Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

  • No image description available.No image description available.

    Best architecture tours of Chicago

This bus tour delves into the architectural marvels and historic events surrounding the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, the setting for Erik Larson’s best-selling book, “Devil in the White City.” Focusing on the grandeur of the Fair and the city’s rich history, the tour explores the transformative impact of the Exposition on Chicago's urban landscape.

Duration
3.5 hours
Site Type
Neighborhoods
Location
Southside
Architects and Styles
Meet

Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Wacker Dr.

The tour begins with a short presentation offering a glimpse into the Fair’s key figures and architectural feats. Then, we hit the road to explore locations and buildings that fair goers of the time would have experienced, including stops at the Midway and the original site of the iconic Ferris Wheel. We'll also go by the former home of Fair critic Ida B. Wells, stroll the streets of the elite who funded the Fair and walk through Jackson Park, where the Fairgrounds once stood.

Whether you’ve read Erik Larson’s book or are discovering the story for the first time, this tour offers an in-depth look at the World’s Fair and its enduring influence on Chicago’s architecture. While the figure of Dr. Henry H. Holmes is discussed, this tour focuses primarily on the architectural legacy and historical significance of the 1893 Fair.

Know before you go:
  • For guests unable to use stairs, please notify us at least two weeks in advance (when possible) by calling 312.922.3432 to ensure an accessible bus is available.
  • Mobility aids (walkers, wheelchairs, etc.) can be stored on the bus.
  • Guests are invited to bring a bag lunch and beverage onboard the bus.

Tour reviews

    • Vintage black and white photograph of Gale Ferris Jr.'s original Ferris Wheel, towering over the Chicago skyline with its iconic structure.Vintage black and white photograph of Gale Ferris Jr.'s original Ferris Wheel, towering over the Chicago skyline with its iconic structure.
      This tour, which is based on many buildings that no longer stand and deals with an infamous criminal, is still is one of my favorites. It tells the story of the transition of the city from a rough and tumble Midwest trading center to a major metropolis—second in the nation—demanding world-wide respect.
      Ellen ShubartCAC Docent
  • Image of two women walking in front of a white bus parked with the door open

    Pre-tour presentation on the World's Fair at the Chicago Architecture Center.

  • Exterior view of the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, featuring its historic architecture with ornate details and a large dome.

    Museum of Science and Industry

  • Exterior view of the Keith Mansion, a grand Victorian-era building with intricate architectural details.

    Keith Mansion

  • Large golden statue, depicting a historical figure on a pedestal surrounded by greenery and pathways.

    The Statue of the Republic, Jackson Park

  • Exterior of the historic Auditorium Theater in Chicago, featuring ornate architecture

    The Auditorium Building

  • Image of two women walking in front of a white bus parked with the door open

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

  • Icon of a person walking with a red percentage sign

    Terrain & Surfaces

    Moderate - Some uneven or mixed surfaces

  • Icon of a wheelchair and red arrow

    Wheelchair & Walker Access

    Difficult - Stairs required, no ramps 

  • Icon of the outline or some steps and a red arrow pointing diagonally right and up.

    Steps or Stairs

    Difficult - Stairs required, no alternate route available

  • Icon of an ear with a red throughline

    Hearing Access

    Easy - Quiet setting, easy to hear

Buildings on This Tour

See All Buildings of Chicago
Skyscraper GallerySkyscraper Gallery

Free Center Entry with Your Ticket

Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your walking or bus tour.

Visit the Center
Skyscraper GallerySkyscraper Gallery