Chicago Architecture Center Homepage

Walk Pilsen

  • Exterior of brick and wood building with vibrant mural, on street corner.

    Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

Discover Pilsen’s vibrant street art, historic landmarks, and dynamic cultural heritage on a leisurely walking tour through this iconic Chicago neighborhood.
  • Exterior of brick and wood building with vibrant mural, on street corner.

    Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

Explore Pilsen, a neighborhood that continues to welcome immigrants, adding to the mosaic that enriches urban life. Walk a vibrant community whose architecture and art reflect the dreams of all who come to Chicago.

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

CTA 18th St. L Station, just west of Paulina St., 1710 W. 18th St.

Trace European and Mexican influences through a wide range of commercial, residential, religious and cultural sites that define our city’s progress.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
  • Tour ends on Damen Ave. at the CTA Pink Line "L" station.


Notes:
  • Many tours sell out. To guarantee your space advance reservations are strongly recommended.
  • Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your tour. View the CAC's hours.
  • Your safety is our priority. The itinerary of this tour may be altered in accordance with health and safety policies and considerations.

Tour reviews

    • Pilsen is where immigrants -the majority of us- arrived and established new lives, constructing buildings and creating art that remind us of our cultures left behind, while adjusting to our new homeland.
      Tom DrebenstedtCAC Docent
  • Vibrant mural with face at center

    Murals at the 18th St Pink Line Station

  • Mural at city train station with large circular art.

    Murals at the 18th St Pink Line Station

  • Exterior of school entrance with mosaic art of sev

    Cooper Elementary Dual Language Academy

  • View of city buildings from perspective of street corner

    Blue Island Streetscape

  • Exterior of gothic church with 3 arches and 6 doorways

    St. Paul's Catholic Church. Photo by Irina Hayes.

  • Exterior of weathered stone building.

    Pilsen Sokol. Photo by Irina Hynes..

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LIVING IN PILSEN

Discover more about the 2- and 3-flat homes of Pilsen in CAC's Buildings of Chicago online library.

LEARN MORE

FAQ

  • Essential walking tours depart from the center at 111 East Wacker; they are free for all CAC members. Premier walking tours depart from other locations across Chicago, including neighborhood tours. Premier tours are discounted for individual, dual and family memberships and free for Deco level and above.

  • The CAC welcomes all visitors and is committed to making its offerings feel safe and accessible to everyone. Learn more about accessibility options.

  • Many of our tours depart from the CAC at 111 E. Wacker. Your ticket (regular or print-at-home) will indicate the departure location. If you have any questions about your tour’s meeting place, give us a call at 312.922.TOUR (8687).

    For tours that don’t begin at the CAC, please consult the individual tour webpage, or call 312.922.TOUR (8687) for details on the meeting location.

All walking & bus tours FAQ
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Group & Private Tours

CAC offers discounted rates and customized options for groups and tour operators. Learn about options here.

See Group and Private tours
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Free Center Entry with Your Ticket

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

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