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Uptown

  • View from elevated train platform onto city street with mural

    View from Wilson Red Line Platform. Photo by Pamela Loewenstein.

Discover a treasure trove of terra cotta ornamentation and creatively repurposed historic buildings.
  • View from elevated train platform onto city street with mural

    View from Wilson Red Line Platform. Photo by Pamela Loewenstein.

Uptown is home to entertainment palaces like the Riviera, Green Mill and the Aragon Ballroom; and one of the most diverse neighborhoods on the North Side.

Duration
2 hours
Site Type
Neighborhoods
Location
Northside
Architects and Styles
Meet

Wilson CTA Station, 1115 W. Wilson to the east of Truman College.

When commuter train lines were extended north to Wilson Avenue in 1900, Uptown exploded with development. This tour gives an overview of the neighborhood’s fascinating history, highlighting the evolution of its entertainment and arts district, recent revitalization projects and ongoing preservation efforts.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
  • Tour ends at the Uptown Post Office, 4850 N. Broadway.
  • Paid street parking is limited. Public transportation is recommended.

Tour reviews

    • Mural of a young black woman with flowers everywhere on the side of a buildingMural of a young black woman with flowers everywhere on the side of a building
      Amazing and informative tour of uptown. Our guide was well informed on all aspects of buildings and history featured on the tour.
      Graham C. Tour Attendee
    • Experience an area filled with history and fabulous art and architecture and after you can have a meal at one of the many restaurants in the area.
      Debra Jean FrelsCAC Docent
    • Janet was a fun and knowledgeable tour guide for our Uptown walking tour. We enjoyed learning about the history of our neighborhood buildings and how it has evolved over time. Highly recommend!
      Lexi J.Tour Attendee
    • We did the uptown tour with Greg, really informative and interesting. Highly recommend for both locals and tourists
      NikkiTour Attendee
  • Black and white mural on city building

    Clifton Art Street Gallery. Photo by Pamela Loewenstein.

  • 3 story terra cotta building with arched windows

    Uptown Broadway Building. Photo by Linda Winke.

  • Aerial view of theatre with large white marquee next to restaurant with yellow sign

    Riviera Theatre. Photo by Pamela Loewenstein.

  • Large colorful wheel on city street with bank in background.

    Riviera Theatre and Bridgeview Bank Uptown. Photo by Robin Simon.

  • Interior view of large white bank lobby with bright light chandeliers.

    Bridgeview Bank Uptown. Photo by Deb Frels.

  • Exterior view of red brick building with diamond patterning. Large black vertical sign.

    Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom. Photo by Pamela Loewenstein.

  • Exterior view of a brick building with ornate scultures with the words Uptown Broadway Building etched on glass

    Uptown Broadway Building. Photo by Linda Winke.

  • Mural of a young black woman with flowers everywhere on the side of a building

    Clifton Ave. Street Art Gallery. Photo by Pamela Loewenstein.

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

    Easy - Paved and flat the entire route 

  • Icon of a wheelchair and red arrow

    Wheelchair & Walker Access

    Easy - Fully accessible; no barriers

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

    Steps or Stairs

    Easy - No stairs, step-free route  

  • Icon of an ear with a red throughline

    Hearing Access

    Easy - Quiet setting, easy to hear 

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

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