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Offered languages
- English
Explore Chicago’s amazing architecture from the unique perspective of elevated trains and station platforms. Learn the history behind the famous "L" system and hear how it has shaped the development of buildings within the Loop.
The city's first elevated train started making trips in 1892. Now considered one of Chicago’s most defining features, the "L" offers incredible views of downtown. By being more than 20 feet off the ground, you'll see architectural details that are missed by most pedestrians at street level. This is our most comprehensive tour in the Loop, passing hundreds of buildings and highlighting ones of architectural significance. As a certified nonprofit, all CAC ticket purchases directly support our education efforts and community engagement projects.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Chicago Architecture Center at 111 E Wacker Drive.
Itinerary
-
1Chicago Architecture Center
Begin the tour at the Chicago Architecture Center. Fare to ride the Chicago Elevated Rail system is included. Please request a "Ventra" card from the Chicago Architecture Box Office when checking in for the tour.
10 minutes • Admission ticket included -
2
Washington/Wabash "L" station
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago
View Trump Tower.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
View the Marshall Field Building
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
View the Harold Washington Library and State/Van Burnen Station
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
View the Metropolitan Correction Center
5 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
7
View the Fisher Building.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8
View the DePaul Center.
5 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
9
View the Insurance Exchange Building
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
10
Clinton St/Lake St "L" Station
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
11
View the Chicago Transit Authority's (CTA) headquarters.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
12
View the Chicago Board of Trade Building
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
13
View the LeMoyne Building
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
14
Washington/Wabash "L" Station
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
15Chicago Architecture Center
Return to Chicago Architecture Center
5 minutes • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Only about 15 minutes of this two-hour tour is on a train, while most of the remaining tour takes place outdoors standing on the station platforms.
- Pets are not allowed.
- The itinerary of this tour is subject to change without notice.
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Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Only about 15 minutes of this two-hour tour is on a train, while most of the remaining tour takes place outdoors standing on the station platforms.
- Pets are not allowed.
- The itinerary of this tour is subject to change without notice.
- Seating at stations and on the train is not guaranteed.
- This tour is not ADA accessible. Stairs are required.
- Not recommended for travelers with difficulty walking or standing.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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