Walking Tour: Chicago's Loop - Home of the Modern Skyscraper

5.0
(36 reviews)

3 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

We start our tour at one of the most interesting buildings in the Loop — the Fine Arts Building.  Built in 1884 as a showroom and office complex, the building was converted later into its present-day use.

Then we're off to the Harold Washington Chicago Public Library, the design of which was the winner of a competition to design a new library for the city.  From there, we'll view three Chicago landmarks built in the late 1800s, then visit the beautiful Marquette Building, the Field Building (built on the site of the world's first modern skyscraper) and then see the amazing atrium lobby of the world-renowned Rookery Building.

Next, we're off to the beautifully-restored Quincy L stop (authentic 1897 design) to take the train to our last stops.  We visit the iconic Macy's to see the beautiful Tiffany mosaic then we wrap up the tour at the Cultural Center to experience the world's largest Tiffany dome.

Make a day of it and book our Pedway or Historic Pubs tour for the afternoon!

What's Included

Transit tickets
Local expert guide
Gratuities
Food and beverages

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet your guide in front of the building at 410 S Michigan Ave entrance.

End point
Chicago Cultural Center

Wrap up the tour with a visit to the world's largest Tiffany dome.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1

    Meet your guide in the lobby and tour this famous building, which still has manually operated elevators.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Check out the library's hidden gems and exhibits.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Take a close-up look at what was once the largest office building in the world.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Marquette Building

    Learn about this national landmark.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Take a quick break and grab a snack at one of Chicago's first food halls. (Refreshments not included in tour price.)

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6
    The Rookery Building

    Take a quick look at one of the most architecturally-significant buildings in the city.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    Board the L train for a quick trip to our final two destinations.

    15 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 8
    Macy's on State Street

    Visit this iconic department store and marvel at its amazing architecture.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 9
    Chicago Cultural Center

    Wrap up the tour with a quick peek at the home of the world's largest Tiffany dome.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Should be able to climb stairs as not all train stations are equipped with elevators
Supplied by L Stop Tours

Tags

Half-day Tours
Architecture Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Small Group
Excellent Quality

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 36 36 reviews
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