Free cancellation

Chicago Art Deco Skyscrapers Riverfront Walking Tour

4.9 (102 reviews) · By Chicago Architecture Center

Explore Chicago’s iconic Art Deco skyscrapers along the riverfront on this engaging walking tour. You'll step inside five stunning buildings built during the Roaring '20s, a period marked by optimism and lavish design. Learn how Art Deco reflected the era's fun-loving spirit through bold geometric shapes and luxurious materials.

Highlights include the Carbide and Carbon Building, now Pendry Chicago, and the Chicago Motor Club Building, now the Hampton Inn. You'll also see the colorful Trustees System Service Building, now called the Century Tower, all designated Chicago landmarks. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and city scenery, making it ideal for architecture enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

Join us for a 1.5-hour stroll led by a certified guide, who will share stories behind these historic buildings. As a nonprofit, ticket purchases support local education and community projects, so your participation makes a difference.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the tour?

The walking tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

What languages are available?

The tour is conducted in English.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, children aged 5 and up can join. Infants and small children can ride in strollers or prams.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility challenges?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible, and the tour is suitable for those with mobility needs.

What’s included in the ticket?

Your ticket includes admission to the Chicago Architecture Center galleries and narration by a professional guide.

Are there any exclusions?

The ticket does not include coat check, hotel pick-up or drop-off, or storage for luggage or strollers.

Free cancellation

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

Reserve now

Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.

Duration 1.5 hours

Check availability to see start times.

Live tour guide

English

Key facts

Duration 1.5 hours
Languages English
Group size Up to 10 people
Ages Adults 5–100
Accessibility Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; wheelchair accessible options available

What's included

Included

  • Admission to the Chicago Architecture Center galleries
  • Narration by a professional and certified guide

Not included

  • Coat check
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Storage for luggage or strollers

Itinerary

A 1.5-hour walking tour exploring Chicago's Art Deco skyscrapers along the riverfront.

  1. Stop 1

    Discuss buildings built in the Art Deco style along the riverfront.

    1.5 hours
  2. Stop 2

    View the exterior of the building.

    10 minutes
  3. Stop 3

    View the Carbide and Carbon Building.

    10 minutes
  4. Stop 4

    Visit the former Chicago Motor Club Building at 66 E Wacker Place.

    10 minutes
  5. Stop 5

    Visit the Trustees System Service Building.

    10 minutes
  6. Stop 6

    Visit Merchandise Mart at 222 Merchandise Plaza.

    10 minutes

Meeting point & pickup

Meet at the starting point

Meet inside the Chicago Architecture Center at 111 E Wacker Drive. Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour departs.

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Cancellation & confirmation

Free cancellation

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

  • 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day in advance
  • No refund if cancelled within 0–1 day(s)

Instant confirmation

Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.

From $35.00 per person

Adult Age 5–100
1
  • Free cancellation
  • Secure checkout with our booking partner

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