art deco walking tour chicago

Art Deco Skyscrapers: The Loop

Go inside the lobbies of Art Deco masterpieces built in the heart of Chicago’s financial district during the Roaring '20s. Learn how Art Deco reflected the era’s fun-loving optimism with lavish materials and geometric ornament.

Premier tour*

Discover the origins of Art Deco and its hallmark motifs while admiring buildings like the Chicago Board of Trade , One LaSalle Street and 135 South LaSalle Street -- all of which are designated Chicago landmarks.

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

*Premier tours are free for Deco members and above. Learn about our membership levels .

Photos From This Tour

Upcoming Art Deco Skyscrapers: The Loop Tours

Sunday jun 9.

• 2:00pm Buy Tickets

Monday Jun 10

• 10:30am Buy Tickets

Friday Jun 14

• 10:00am Buy Tickets

Sunday Jun 16

Monday jun 17, friday jun 21, highlights of this tour.

Chicago Board of Trade Building

141 w. jackson blvd..

Holding court at the south end of LaSalle St., the Chicago Board of Trade Building presides over Chicago’s…

Art Deco emerged as a popular style of American architecture the 1920s and 1930s. The style originated…

Holabird and Root

Architect/firm.

After founders William Holabird and Martin Roche died in the late 1920s, John Holabird (William’s son)…

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Chicago Walking Tour: Art Deco Skyscrapers Loop provided by Chicago Architecture Center - Chicago, Illinois

  ALL THAT GLAM

“ The past is never dead. It’s not even past. ”

  All That Glam: Chicago’s Art Deco Masterpieces

This tour is the answer to many requests for an Art-Deco-specific tour because — let's face it — we all LOVE the elegance, glam, and glitz of the 1920s. This 2-hour walking tour explores the interiors and exteriors of gorgeous buildings from this surprisingly brief architectural period in Chicago, with some interesting details and stories about life in that era. Flappers, gangsters, jazz, speakeasies — we'll pepper those throughout our larger exploration of Chicago's magnificent Art Deco buildings in order to truly set the context for you!

Though the Art Deco style throws us back in time, it’s actually a futuristic style — it’s meant to make people of its time think of the future . The gleaming materials, the perfect precision of the details… it’s the epitome of glitz, glam, and elegance. On this tour, you’ll walk in the footsteps of those high on the potential of the future, before the infamous Crash of ‘29. We’ll explore several stunning interior spaces within the Loop and near the Chicago River, going inside not only the great Art Deco buildings of the Loop, but also a few buildings you’ll recognize from popular boat tours. But the great thing is that you’ll go where most boat tour guests won’t ever go: inside these gorgeous Art Deco buildings, where you’ll be amazed by the beauty that people don’t know is right there behind closed doors.

Let Inside Chicago Walking Tours take you back to and inside this decadent period of our architectural history! Come join us on our Art Deco tour!

  TOUR LOGISTICS & FAQ

HOW much do tickets cost (USD)?

30 (General Admission); 25 (children 5 and up, and seniors 65 and up); free for kids 4 and under.

HOW LONG IS IT?

This tour lasts about 2 hours, covering about 1.5 miles on foot.

DO WE GO INSIDE BUILDINGS?

Absolutely! That's kind of our thing.

HOW MANY PEOPLE IN THE GROUP?

We will be capping this tour route at 15 guests.

WHEN IS THIS TOUR OFFERED?

This tour is currently offered on weekends. Please see our Tour Schedule for current offerings and to book.

WHERE DOES THIS TOUR START & END?

We start near the Chicago Board of Trade, and end in the Loop near Millennium Park. You will receive the tour's exact starting address upon ticket purchase.

WHAT ABOUT RAIN?

Tours run rain or shine, though may be cancelled/refunded due to extreme weather. Always dress for the weather!

CAN I BOOK THIS AS A PRIVATE TOUR?

Of course! Just contact Hillary at 312-799-0164 to set that up!

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Destination Deco: The Windy City

Interested in learning more about Chicago Art Deco?

Check out our recorded Video Event, Windy City Art Deco ,   to see Chicago's soaring Art Deco skyscrapers that epitomize the glamour, exuberance, and optimism of the era, as well as residences, churches, theaters, and small commercial buildings.   Learn More

Stepped tower at the northern end of 333 North Michigan Avenue recalling Eliel Saarinen’s second-prize-winning entry in the 1922 Chicago Tribune Tower competition. 

Photo: Glenn Rogers

ADSNY members participated in a fabulous fall weekend in Chicago hosted by the Chicago Art Deco Society (CADS). The trip coincided with the recently opened Chicago Historical Society’s exhibition, Modern by Design: Chicago Streamlines America , which ran through December 2, 2019 and our curator-led tour gave us a wonderful overview as an introduction to our visit.

After a private lunch at the Historical Society, we took a guided walking tour of Art Deco gems in the Loop (Chicago’s downtown), including the Chicago Motor Club (Holabird & Root, 1928). This slender, elegant tower, one of the city’s earliest Art Deco buildings, originally housed the club’s headquarters and touring department.

The Motor Club is one of the smaller of Holabird & Root’s Art Deco buildings, just 48 feet wide and 15 stories (260 feet) tall. But its graceful proportions and exquisite Art Deco ornamentation more than compensate for its diminutive dimensions. Geometric motifs and stylized flowers, plants and birds accent the limestone-clad façade with its gently projecting bay that rises from just above the entrance to the parapet. Above the entrance sits a cast-iron relief of a frozen fountain, strikingly reminiscent of designs by Edgar Brandt and René Lalique at the 1925 Paris Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes from which Art Deco takes its name. Inside, the beautifully restored three-story lobby sports geometric moldings, patterned terrazzo floor, and Art Deco chandeliers––plus a large-scale mural by John Warner Norton charting the country’s nineteen national highways as of in 1928, along with the principal cities and all the national parks.

Used for offices following the Club’s departure in the 1980s, subject of an unsuccessful condominium conversion in the early 2000s, the building stood vacant until reopening in 2015 as the Hampton Inn Chicago Downtown. Its multimillion dollar renovation included the installation of a 1928 Ford Model A on the mezzanine balcony as a reminder of its past. The Inn made the perfect setting for ADSNY’s home base during the weekend.

The Chicago Motor Club sits just across the street from another stunning design, the 37-story-tall former Chicago headquarters of the Union Carbide and Carbon Corporation (Burnham Brothers, 1929). Most of Chicago’s Deco skyscrapers are conservatively clad in gray limestone, but this one rises from a three-story polished black granite base into a tower covered in dark green terra cotta with gold terra cotta accents and a gold-leaf-trimmed pinnacle. Legend has it that the façade took inspiration from a green glass champagne bottle with gold foil wrapping, but it has also drawn comparisons to a Union Carbide dry cell battery. The exquisite geometric bronze grille work at the entrance includes a double C referencing the company’s name. From 2004 to 2017, the building housed Chicago’s Hard Rock Hotel, but it recently reopened as the St. Jane, a hotel named for Chicago activist and Hull House founder Jane Addams.

One block to the north, overlooking the Chicago River and the Michigan Avenue Bridge, stands another Holabird & Root tower, No. 333 North Michigan Avenue (1928). Its stepped-back design recalls Finnish architect Eliel Saarinen’s second-prize-winning entry in the 1922 Chicago Tribune Tower competition. Its unbroken piers, vertical columns of windows, dark recessed terra-cotta spandrels, and lack of a cornice combine to accentuate the building’s soaring verticality.

Art Deco grillework at the entrance to the Carbide and Carbon Building.

Bank of elevators off the lobby of One North LaSalle Street.

Lobby of the Chicago Board of Trade.

Stepped back façade of the Chicago Board of Trade. Photo: Glenn Rogers

 The design of No. 333 reflects a 1923 zoning ordinance regulating building height and mass, similar to the one enacted in New York in 1916. Chicago’s ordinance divided the city into five so-called volume districts, with the maximum allowable height increasing progressively from the first to the fifth district, in which a building could reach 264 feet. As in New York, the law encouraged setbacks from the lot line for taller towers like No. 333, which rises 426 feet. The scenes from Chicago’s early pioneer days depicted in Fred Torrey’s low relief sculptures at the top of the base might seem like an odd choice for such a modern structure but reflect the site’s earlier history as Fort Dearborn, an 1803 Chicago military outpost.

One of Chicago’s best-loved Art Deco buildings is the Chicago Board of Trade, another Holabird & Root design, at the foot of LaSalle Street in Chicago’s financial center. On completion in 1930, the 605-foot structure was the city’s tallest. The forty-four-story tower at the rear of the building is deeply recessed behind the nine-story base, and the two twenty-two-story wings on either side are set perpendicular to it, creating a profile frequently described as a high backed armchair with the base as the seat, the tower the back, and the wings the arms. Above the red granite base, a broad band of low relief sculpture shows corn and wheat surrounded by geometric patterns.

The tall narrow windows over the building’s entrance originally marked the location of the six-story trading room, later divided to accommodate an options exchange and now outdated by modern technology. The figures flanking the clock above the windows—a bearded farmer holding sheaves of wheat and a Native American with ears of corn—were designed by Alvin Meyer, the director of Holabird & Root’s sculpture department. On the tower’s pyramidal roof, John Storrs’ cast aluminum sculpture of Ceres, the Roman goddess of grain and the harvest, holds a sheaf of wheat in one hand and a grain sample bag in the other. A 1983 addition to the Board of Trade, topped with an abstract representation of a trading pit, puts a postmodern spin on the setbacks and roof of the original building.

The Board of Trade’s outstanding three-story lobby, restored in 2006 to its original Art Deco dazzle, includes waterfall motifs of black and buff marble on the walls, nickel silver storefronts in the arcade, and a large back lit panel extending the full length of the ceiling. References to wheat appear throughout the lobby—in the balustrades of the mezzanine, the grillework framing the entrance, and the elevator doors.

A short distance north on LaSalle Street from the Board of Trade we visited two more Art Deco towers with exquisite interiors. The Field Building (Graham, Anderson, Probst & White, 1934), now the Bank of America Building, was one of the few construction projects underway during the years of the Great Depression––25 years would pass before the erection of another major commercial building in the Loop.

The Field Building’s two identical five-story main entrances are framed in polished black granite with fluted white marble pilasters. The subdued but sophisticated interior includes white and beige marble walls in an arcade extending the full length of the building, and mirrored bridges with chevron-framed clocks that connect the lobby balconies. The combination mail drop and elevator indicator replicates the building’s profile.

The façade of the LaSalle-Wacker Building.

The intricate geometric bronze work framing the entrance to One North LaSalle Street (Vitzhum & Burns, 1930) provides just a hint of the glorious lobby beyond the doors—walls sheathed in green-black marble, bronze grilles, and chevron and sunburst motifs on the plaster ceiling. Stylized eagles support frosted-glass lamps, and stylized female figures personifying Success and Reputation adorn the bronze elevator doors.

Since any visit to a jazz and blues destination should include an evening enjoying its famed music, our first day ended at Andy’s Jazz Club.

The following morning, we continued our journey of discovery with a rare Art Deco single-family residence, the Edward P. Russell House on Astor Street in Chicago’s Gold Coast, built in 1929 by Holabird & Root, better known for their Deco skyscrapers. A four-story limestone-clad townhouse, it has an asymmetrical but balanced façade with a three-story bay rising over the main entrance. Like many Gold Coast residences, it was subdivided into apartments in the 1950s. In the late 1990s, new owners undertook an extensive renovation that involved reconstruction of the bay window, removal of multiple layers of paint from the bay’s metal exterior to reveal intricate foliate ornamentation, and repair of the deteriorating façade using limestone from the same quarry in France that had supplied the original material. The Commission on Chicago Landmarks recognized their efforts with a 2010 Preservation Excellence Award.

Playroom in Frank Lloyd Wright's home.

Waiting area of Frank Lloyd Wright's studio.

Façade of Robie House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Elsewhere in the neighborhood, we visited a Streamline Moderne design, the Frank Fisher, Jr. Apartments (Andrew N. Rebori and Edgar Miller, 1937) on North State Parkway. This L-shaped four-story complex contains thirteen multilevel apartments, facing a landscaped courtyard, all with separate entrances. The curved common brick walls are painted white, and the extensive use of glass-block windows allows natural light to reach the interiors while maintaining privacy and reducing noise. Chicago artist Edgar Miller designed the cast-cement reliefs with animal motifs on the door jambs and the terra-cotta plaques on the façade and some of the apartment doors.

We saw yet another Deco residential building in the Kenwood neighborhood south of downtown Chicago: the 22-story Powhatan Apartments (Robert S. DeGolyer and Charles L. Morgan, 1928). The building’s name reflects its First Nation decorative theme, including black terra cotta relief figures at the base, other figures standing guard in the entranceway’s metal grillework, and abstract polychromatic terra cotta panels in the upper level spandrels.

The white terra-cotta-clad Ritz 55th Garage (M. Louis Kroman, 1929), aside from providing parking for 400 vehicles, included an automobile showroom and retail stores on the ground level. The façade ornament is full of automotive imagery—traffic signals, headlamps, and a streamlined roadster with a driver wearing goggles and a woman passenger at his side.

Colorful spandrel mosaics on the façade of the Powhatan.

Fireplace with colorful details in the inner lobby of the Powhatan.

Indoor swimming pool at the Powhatan.

The front door of the Powhatan.

In the Chicago suburb of Oak Park, our exploration of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie legacy included a guided tour of Wright’s home and studio; a visit to Unity Temple, considered Wright’s finest public building from his Prairie era; and a look at other Wright homes nearby. Then we were off to Hyde Park, on Chicago’s south side, to see Wright's Robie House, a masterpiece of the Prairie style and an icon of modern architecture––its hundred-year-old interiors seem startlingly contemporary today. We ended our day relaxing over a family style Italian dinner.

We began our last day with an architectural cruise along the Chicago River, offering us a from-the-water perspective of the Chicago skyline and up-close views of the city’s most iconic structures. Following the cruise, we visited Festival Hall at Navy Pier as V.I.P. guests of the organizers of SOFA––the Sculptural Objects, Functional Art and Design Show––taking place that weekend. One of the nation’s most important annual design shows, SOFA features the work of the world’s finest designers––from the mid-twentieth century to the present day––in furniture, ceramics, glass, textiles, and fine art. What a wonderfully appropriate way to conclude our stay in the Windy City!

Group photo of those attending the ADSNY program on the mezzanine balcony overlooking the lobby of the Chicago Motor Club.

About the Author:

ADSNY expresses deep appreciation to Joseph Loundy, president of the Chicago Art Deco Society, and the CADS team for organizing this memorable trip. Many thanks to Kathleen Skolnik for providing the architectural history of buildings mentioned in this article. Kathleen served as the editor of the Chicago Art Deco Society Magazine for eight years. Her Spring 2016 issue of the magazine highlights more than sixty of Chicago’s Art Deco attractions, and includes maps and 150 stunning photos by long-time CADS member Glenn Rogers.

All photos unless noted otherwise: Meghan Weatherby

Article originally published in the  Art Deco New York  journal, Vol. 3, Issue 2, Winter 2018. View a digital version of the full journal  here.

 Copyright 2015 Chicago Art Deco Society      

• North America
• An Art Deco Architecture Tour...

An Art Deco Architecture Tour of Chicago

Wellness Editor

Set off on a walking tour of Chicago’s best Art Deco architecture, taking in geometric ornamentation and lavish lobbies that display the decadent spirit of the Windy City in the Roaring ’20s.

1. chicago board of trade building.

2. Bank of America Building

From here, walk north on South LaSalle Street to the Bank of America Building, formerly known as the Field Building. Completed in 1934, it was the last major Chicago skyscraper erected before the Great Depression and World War II halted construction in the city. The building’s 45 stories are constructed from polished black granite, with decorative windows accented by aluminum spandrel panels (the pair of triangular spaces between an arch and the moulding above it).

3. One North LaSalle Building

Continue north to West Madison Street, where South LaSalle becomes North LaSalle, and you’ll find the One North LaSalle Building. Designed by architects Vitzthum & Burns in 1930, it was the city’s tallest structure for 35 years and has a beautifully preserved grand lobby – another hallmark of Art Deco. Look up to the fifth floor and you’ll notice carved relief panels depicting René-Robert Cavelier, a French explorer and fur trader who traversed the Great Lakes region in the 17th century.

4. Riverside Plaza

Walk west down West Madison Street, stopping on the bridge that arcs across the Chicago River. On the west bank you’ll see Riverside Plaza, the first Chicago building to incorporate a public plaza in its design. Once home to the Chicago Daily News , the building has a facade that pays tribute to eight historic figures from journalism – the names of Joseph Pulitzer, Benjamin Franklin and Joseph Medill (co-owner of the Chicago Tribune and mayor of Chicago during the Great Fire ) are among those featured.

5. Civic Opera Building

Directly opposite the Riverside Plaza you’ll spot the Civic Opera Building. Comprising a 45-story tower flanked by two 22-story wings, it looks like a giant throne overlooking the Chicago River. The building was envisioned by Samuel Insull, the wealthy co-founder of the country’s leading electrical companies, who wanted his opera house to embody “the spirit of a community which is still youthful and not much hampered by traditions.” The project took just 22 months to complete and its first opera, Verdi’s Aida , was performed six days after the stock market crash of 1929.

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6. Merchandise Mart

Next, stroll north, following North Upper Wacker as it curves around to the east. Stop between the Franklin Street and Wells Street bridges and gaze across the river at the Merchandise Mart. With 4 million square feet of floor space, it was the largest building in the world when it opened in 1930. On the ground level, huge bronze-framed windows hint at the building’s original purpose; it was formerly a wholesale warehouse for Marshall Field & Company department stores.

7. Century Tower

For the next stop, follow the elevated train line down North Wells Street and turn left at West Lake Street to see Century Tower, which was built in 1930. Another Chicago landmark that once claimed the title of the world’s tallest skyscraper, it consists of a 20-story main building topped by an eight-story tower and a distinctive ziggurat.

8. Carbide and Carbon Building

Follow East Wacker Place to Michigan Avenue to reach the lavish Carbide and Carbon Building. The building’s showstopping exterior is composed of black marble, green-tinted terracotta and gold leaf, and its spire is coated in a thin layer of 24-carat gold. Inside the Michigan Avenue entrance, a lobby made with Belgian marble and frosted glass creates a grand welcome.

9. Chicago Motor Club Building

Just across the street on Wacker is the historic Chicago Motor Club Building, a slim 17-story tower that was erected at record-breaking speed – in just 234 days, including the demolition of the pre-existing building on the site. Peek inside and appreciate the original artwork by pioneering American muralist John Warner Norton – a two-story-high map of the USA.

10. 333 North Michigan

Head back to the riverfront to see 333 North Michigan, a long, narrow 1928 skyscraper with a base of polished marble and embellishments depicting Native Americans and pioneers at Fort Dearborn, a Chicago fort built in 1803.

11. Palmolive Building

Finally, cross the DuSable Bridge and follow the Magnificent Mile until you reach the Palmolive Building at East Walton Place – another building by architects Holabird & Root (also responsible for the Chicago Board of Trade Building, 333 North Michigan and many other historic Art Deco landmarks in the city). One of the first skyscrapers built outside of the Loop, it’s a stunning example of the dramatic detail and beauty of the Art Deco architectural style.

This article is an updated version of a story created by Tim Marklew.

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A guide to Chicago’s art deco architecture

Last updated on December 14, 2021 by Amanda Scotese

Art Deco is an architectural style that’s all about streamlined surfaces, linear and geometric shapes, symmetry — and a dose of glamour. The Art Deco era came roaring in during the 1920s. These opulent structures perfectly capture the exuberant optimism of the post-WWII era. If you want to see for yourself, Chicago is home to some of the most stunning examples of the Art Deco movement.

Check out these Art Deco gems all around Chicago.

Carbide & Carbon Building

The  Carbide & Carbon Building  was designed by the Burnham Brothers and completed in 1929. The rumor is that it was designed to look like a champagne bottle, with its golden top and green-tinted terracotta facade. The gold-leaf is not imitation, by the way — it’s real 24 karat gold. I know that seems hard to imagine, but they pounded it out so that it’s 1/5000 of an inch thick. The base is a reflective black granite, popular in Art Deco because of its sleekness and glamor.

Architecture buffs can even stay the night in this art deco gem: it’s home to a luxury hotel .

Chicago Motor Club Building

The Chicago Motor Club building  is another example of the Chicago Art Deco style in full-swing. Not only was it a “monument to the progress of motordom,” it was a monument to the progress of capitalism and the prosperity of the 20’s. Everything about the building screams money, power and progress, especially the lobby.

The ceiling is high and the windows linear. On the west wall is a 29-foot mural depicting the important national highways and cities of the time, with many of the routes leading to Chicago.

Chicago Board of Trade Building

Civic Opera Building

Adler Planetarium

The Rookery

TheMART (formerly Merchandise Mart)

Chicago Bee building

Learn more with Chicago’s Art Deco tours

Art Deco Skyscrapers: The Riverfront by the Chicago Architecture Center

Architecture Walking Tours  by Chicago Detours

Or take a self-guided walking tour with an interactive map from the Chicago Art Deco Society.

About Amanda Scotese

Amanda Scotese started the tour company Chicago Detours , so she can have a legitimate excuse for wandering Chicago and geeking out on architecture. She dug in to anything Chicago, especially architecture and urban geography, through the Masters of Arts Program in the Humanities at the University of Chicago. Her travel writing has appeared in Rick Steves’ Italy travel guidebooks, Trazzler, the San Francisco Bay Guardian, and the Chicago Detours blog .

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Chicago: Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour

Step into a world where history and artistry converge amidst the towering structures of Chicago’s skyline.

The Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour invites participants to uncover the hidden stories behind these architectural marvels, each facade whispering tales of a bygone era.

As the tour winds its way through the city streets, a journey awaits that promises to reveal not just buildings, but also the very soul of a city shaped by innovation and creativity.

• Immerse in Chicago’s Art Deco skyscrapers with expert guidance.
• Explore origins and motifs influencing iconic Chicago buildings.
• Appreciate opulent interiors showcasing Art Deco style.
• Support educational initiatives of Chicago Architecture Center.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Chicago Architecture River Cruise
• Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago
• Best of Chicago Small-Group Tour With Skydeck and River Cruise
• Drunk Shakespeare Performance in Chicago –Vaccination Required–

Tour Overview

Set out on an immersive journey through the captivating world of Art Deco skyscrapers in Chicago with a guided walking tour that delves into the origins, motifs , and impact of this iconic architectural style.

Chicago’s architecture holds immense historical significance , with Art Deco style making its debut in the 1920s, drawing influences from Cubism and ancient Middle Eastern art.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Art Deco motifs like zigzags and sunbursts while admiring the interior beauty of five opulent Art Deco buildings near the Chicago River.

Led by a local expert trained by the Chicago Architecture Center, you will gain insights into how Art Deco has influenced Chicago’s skyscrapers, making it a must-do experience for architecture enthusiasts.

Activity Details

Discover the key details of the upcoming Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour of Chicago, including duration , guide availability , and accessibility features.

The tour spans 1.5 hours, led by a live tour guide proficient in English. Accessibility is ensured as the activity is wheelchair accessible, accommodating a small group of up to 10 participants.

Dive into the rich history of architecture with a focus on Art Deco origins and design elements. Learn about the influences from Cubism and ancient Middle Eastern art that shaped Chicago’s skyscrapers with exquisite Art Deco motifs like zigzags and sunbursts.

Enjoy the beauty of 5 opulent Art Deco buildings while supporting the Chicago Architecture Center’s educational initiatives.

More Great Things To Do Nearby

Experience Offered

The upcoming Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour of Chicago offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the world of Art Deco architecture with a knowledgeable local guide. During the tour, guests will learn about Art Deco design and its influence on skyscrapers, gaining a deeper understanding of architectural history .

Exploring the interiors of five opulent Art Deco buildings, visitors will appreciate the intricate details and motifs that define this iconic style. Guided by a local expert trained by the Chicago Architecture Center, attendees will discover the origins of Art Deco and its impact on Chicago’s skyline.

Notable landmarks like the Carbide and Carbon Building will showcase the beauty and significance of Art Deco in the city’s architectural landscape.

Highlights of the Tour

During this tour, you will explore the origins and motifs of Art Deco architecture, exploring its influence on Chicago’s iconic skyscrapers. The highlights of the tour include a deep dive into Art Deco motifs and their impact on Chicago architecture. Participants will marvel at the interior beauty of opulent Art Deco buildings, appreciating the intricate details that define this architectural style. The expert guidance provided by a local guide trained by the Chicago Architecture Center ensures a comprehensive understanding of Art Deco’s significance in skyscraper history. Visiting iconic Art Deco landmarks in Chicago will allow participants to witness firsthand the architectural beauty that has shaped the city’s skyline.

Full Tour Description

Exploring the lobbies of five opulent Art Deco skyscrapers situated near the Chicago River offers a fascinating glimpse into the architectural legacy of the 1920s when this distinctive style was introduced in the city. Influenced by Cubism and ancient Middle Eastern art, Chicago’s Art Deco buildings showcase motifs like zigzags and sunbursts.

This tour not only delves into the historical significance of Art Deco in Chicago architecture but also supports the educational initiatives of the Chicago Architecture Center. Participants will appreciate the intricate details and grandeur of these iconic buildings, gaining a deeper understanding of how Art Deco has left an indelible mark on the city’s skyline.

Join this experience to learn about the opulent beauty and historical richness of Chicago’s Art Deco skyscrapers.

Review Summary

Discover why participants overwhelmingly recommend the tour, highlighting the guide’s expertise, excellent value for money, and impeccable service quality. The guide received a rating of 4.3/5, showcasing their in-depth knowledge and engaging presentation style. Customers rated the value for money at 4.4/5, emphasizing the wealth of information received for the cost. Service quality scored an impressive 4.8/5, indicating the high level of care and attention provided throughout the tour. Overall organization received a rating of 4.5/5, reflecting the seamless flow and structure of the experience. The majority of reviews recommend the tour and praise the informative guide, ensuring a memorable and enriching exploration of Chicago’s Art Deco skyscrapers.

The tour winds through the bustling streets of downtown Chicago, unveiling the architectural splendor of 5 opulent Art Deco skyscrapers along the Chicago River. Participants will be immersed in the rich history of Chicago architecture, exploring how Art Deco influences have shaped the city’s skyline.

As you walk alongside the river, you’ll witness firsthand the intricate details and geometric motifs that characterize Art Deco design . From the sleek lines of the Carbide and Carbon Building to the lavish interiors of other iconic landmarks, each stop on the tour offers a unique perspective on the fusion of Art Deco and Chicago’s urban landscape.

Prepare to be captivated by the stunning juxtaposition of modernity and tradition woven into the fabric of these magnificent skyscrapers.

Booking Information

As participants explore the architectural splendor of 5 opulent Art Deco skyscrapers along the Chicago River, they can proceed to secure their spots on the tour through the following booking information.

The booking process is simple and can be done online through the tour operator’s website. Tour availability is limited to small groups of up to 10 participants to ensure an intimate experience.

Payment options include the convenience of reserving now and paying later for added flexibility. Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind to participants.

It’s recommended to review the cancellation policy carefully before booking to understand the terms and conditions for refunds.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Private 45-Minute Chicago Skyline Helicopter Tour
• Skip-the-Line Art Institute of Chicago Small-Group Guided Tour
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Common questions

Are there any specific art deco architects or designers known for their work in chicago.

In Chicago’s design legacy, iconic structures like the Carbide and Carbon Building showcase Art Deco masterpieces . Influential architects like Raymond Hood and John Mead Howells left their mark, shaping the city’s skyline with stunning Art Deco creations.

How Has the Art Deco Style Evolved in Chicago Over the Years?

The evolution of Art Deco in Chicago showcases a dynamic blend of influences over the years. This iconic style has influenced the city’s architecture, with its intricate motifs and unique designs leaving a lasting impact on the skyline.

Can Participants Interact With Any Art Deco Features During the Tour?

Participants can engage with Art Deco features during the tour by exploring intricate details like zigzags and sunbursts in 5 opulent buildings. Hands-on activities include admiring the interior beauty and learning about Art Deco’s impact on Chicago’s iconic skyscrapers.

Are There Any Lesser-Known Art Deco Buildings Included in the Tour?

The tour showcases hidden gems of lesser-known Art Deco buildings, revealing unique architectural details. Participants engage in preservation efforts and learn about community involvement in maintaining these treasures, fostering a deeper appreciation for Chicago’s rich architectural history .

How Does the Tour Contribute to Preserving and Promoting Chicago’s Art Deco Heritage?

Preserving Chicago’s Art Deco heritage through guided tours showcases the architectural significance of the era. The tour educates participants on Art Deco preservation efforts, fostering appreciation for the city’s iconic buildings and contributing to their historical and cultural legacy.

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Enjoy the opulent beauty and architectural significance of Chicago’s Art Deco skyscrapers with this guided walking tour.

Led by a knowledgeable local expert, explore the intricate details and influences of this unique architectural style on the city’s iconic skyline.

With small group sizes, wheelchair accessibility , and flexible booking options, this tour promises a fascinating journey through Chicago’s rich architectural heritage for all art and architecture enthusiasts.

Book your spot now for an unforgettable experience!

9 Great Chicago Architecture Tours

I f you're looking for the best Chicago architecture tours, you've found them here! As a local who has explored these tours on weekends, during staycations, or while showing visiting friends around Chicago, I can honestly say that this list shares the most unique and fun experiences.

The city has great options including the best architectural boat tours, helicopter tours, walking tours, and more.

If you have limited hours, take the Hop On/Hop Off bus tour in Chicago or visit the top Chicago attractions to get the most out of a short amount of time.

Architecture Tours You Should Try in Chicago

Chicago architecture cruise.

Check rates for Chicago Architecture Cruise

If you love touring on water, then this cruise is for you. I've taken this cruise several times while showing friends the city and they loved it too.

On this cruise, you will ride the Chicago River and see the city's famous architecture. You'll see the impressive flat skyline including over 40 famous buildings such as Navy Pier, the Wrigley Building, and the John Hancock Building with audio narratives. The tour covers all three branches of the Chicago River.

Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Regular & Express

Check rates at Navy Pier Centennial Wheel

This is one of my favorite ways to see the city and the Chicago skyline. You circle only once, but the ride is super slow, and you'll have some great photo ops when you get to the top.

Navy Pier is among the most visited destinations in the world. It offers beautiful views from the wheel, and it's a must-do when in the area! Located right on the pier, you have spectacular views of the city's skyline, architecture, and waterfront.

45-Minute Private Helicopter Flight

Check rates at 45-Minute Private Helicopter Flight

I was scheduled to go on this flight but it was canceled due to bad weather. At least they are good at following safety protocol. Too bad that I missed this amazing experience by helicopter. From what I hear, you will get the best views of touring Chicago architecture, and the experience of flying amongst the clouds. 

Willis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge

Check rates for Willis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge

Having been on the Skydeck a couple of times, it never disappoints. What I didn't like much was that there is a limited time that you have to stand in the box. But if there were no supervision, the line would be from the street.

But here, you will have some of the most breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. You'll also see why home is to beautiful parks and cultural attractions such as the Adler Planetarium in Millennium and the Shedd Aquarium in Grant Park.

Look north to see Chicago's iconic skyscrapers and landmarks from Lincoln Park to the world-famous Wrigley Field.

Night Tour with Willis Tower Entry & Skyline Cruise

Check rates at Night Tour with Willis Tower Entry & Skyline Cruise

This tour is a wonderful way to spend the evening while touring in Chicago. You'll immerse yourself in one of the tallest architectural buildings in Chicago along with a Chicago boat tour. 

Experience the Windy City’s most popular attractions on this overnight tour. Watch the night light show of Buckingham Fountain. Cruise along the Chicago skyline and climb to the top of the iconic Willis Tower.

Big Bus Panoramic Sunset Tour with Live Guide

Check rates at Big Bus Open-Top Panoramic Night Tour

If this is your first visit to this city, this is a great way to tour Chicago , Illinois and how it shines at night. There is so much to see on both sides of the bus since the architecture of Chicago is interesting

Experience the stunning skyscrapers of Windy City that light up at night. Take a panoramic nighttime tour from the Magnificent Mile to Michigan Avenue past the Chicago Theater and Buckingham Fountain.

Chicago History, Culture, and Architecture Walking Tour

Check rates at Chicago History, Culture, and Architecture Walking Tour

This is a great way to hear about Chicago's history and architecture. Take a private stroll or share walks with family or friends for this architecture tour. You can see old and new architecture, try delicious local treats, see beautiful boats tour the river. 

Chicago Architecture Center Exhibit Admission

Check rates at Chicago Architecture Center Exhibit

The Chicago Architecture Center or CAC is located at the south end of Magnificent Rock near Michigan Walker Intersection. You'll discover super-sized models of architecture from around the world.

The vouchers give you access to two floors of imaginative exhibitions at the city's newest cultural venue.

Chicago Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour

Check rates at Chicago Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking

The luxurious materials and geometric decorations of Art Deco represent the opulence and optimism of the decadent 20s. Visit some of the city's most beautiful architecture and learn about the history and characteristics of this modern decorative style.

Final Thoughts on the Best Chicago Architecture Tours

These are the best ways to tour Chicago architecture and see all the unmissable attractions. I've taken every single one of these tours, including ones not mentioned and found them worth the money.

I enjoyed seeing the towering skyscrapers and iconic landmarks. The tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the architectural history of the Chicago. Not to mention, it's nice to play tourist in my own back yard.

As a visitor, be sure to plan your tour in advance and consider factors such as weather and time of day to make the most of your experience. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views along the way.

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or simply looking to appreciate the city's remarkable skyline, a Chicago architecture tour is a must-do activity. The buildings are inspiring structures and some are a marvel of innovative designs that have shaped this iconic city.

Whether you go on water, in the air, or on foot , book your tour today and embark on a journey through Chicago's architectural wonders.

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