5 (82)
Chicago
Chicago Art Deco Skyscrapers: Riverfront Walking Tour
90
Overview
Chicago Walking Tour: Art Deco Skyscrapers Riverfront invites guests to step back in time and explore the glamorous era of the Roaring '20s. This walking tour focuses on the stunning Art Deco skyscrapers lining the Chicago Riverfront Art Deco. This architectural tour showcases the exteriors of five opulent buildings, each a testament to the era's optimism and lavish design.
Visitors will discover the origins of Art Deco as they admire landmarks such as the Carbide and Carbon Building (now Pendry Chicago) with its distinctive champagne bottle design, the Chicago Motor Club Building (now the Hampton Inn), and the often-overlooked Trustees System Service Building (now the Century Tower). The tour provides admission to the Galleries of the Chicago Architecture Center, offering an even deeper dive into the city’s architectural heritage.
A professional and certified guide leads the way, providing engaging narration about the history and design of these iconic structures. Please note that coat check and hotel pick-up/drop-off are not included, nor is luggage or stroller storage available. 
Highlights
Explore Iconic Art Deco Buildings: Discover the history and design of five stunning skyscrapers from the Roaring '20s.
Professional Certified Guide: Engage with a certified guide who brings the stories of these architectural masterpieces to life.
Admission to the Chicago Architecture Center Galleries: Enjoy access to the Chicago Architecture Center Galleries.
Support Architectural Education: Every ticket purchase directly supports the Chicago Architecture Center’s education and community engagement efforts.
Sentiment Analysis
Visitors loved learning about the history and details of Chicago's Art Deco buildings.
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The tour guides were knowledgeable and passionate about architecture.
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The walking pace was comfortable and allowed for detailed observations.
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Many felt the tour was a great way to discover hidden architectural gems.
Some guests wished they could go inside more buildings.
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A few reviewers mentioned the tour could be affected by weather conditions.
The Journey
Chicago Riverfront Art Deco
Experience the elegance of Art Deco architecture along the Chicago Riverfront. Marvel at the streamlined designs, geometric patterns, and opulent materials that define this iconic style. Observe how the riverfront setting enhances the buildings' grandeur, creating a captivating visual experience that blends history and urban aesthetics.
Architectural Exterior
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Chicago's architectural exteriors. Appreciate the artistry and innovation of the city's iconic structures. Observe the unique details of each building and the stories they tell. Walking through the city becomes a tour of architectural history and design.
Carbide and Carbon Building
Behold the Carbide and Carbon Building, a stunning example of Art Deco architecture, designed to resemble a champagne bottle. Admire its dark green terra cotta and bronze trim. Imagine the roaring twenties when this architectural gem was built and appreciate its lasting beauty and sophisticated design.
Chicago Motor Club Building
Step back in time at the former Chicago Motor Club Building, located at 66 E Wacker Place. Admire the building's Art Deco design and imagine its history as a hub for automobile enthusiasts. Explore the building's unique features, including its murals and vintage details, that evoke the glamour of early motoring.
Trustees System Service Building
Discover the Trustees System Service Building, a testament to Chicago's architectural heritage. Explore its unique features and architectural details, showcasing the city's rich architectural history. Appreciate the building's contribution to Chicago's urban landscape and its significance in the city's past.
Merchandise Mart
Visit Merchandise Mart, located at 222 Merchandise Plaza, one of the world's largest commercial buildings and a center for design and innovation. Explore its vast showrooms and appreciate its architectural grandeur. Experience the hub of creativity and commerce that has shaped Chicago's design industry for decades.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes admission to the Galleries of the Chicago Architecture Center and narration by a professional, certified guide. It excludes coat check, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and storage for luggage or strollers. Please meet your guide at the designated meeting point to begin the tour. The tour focuses on the exteriors of the buildings.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour! Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Also, bring a camera to capture the beautiful details of these Art Deco masterpieces.
Review Summary
Reviews for the Chicago Walking Tour: Art Deco Skyscrapers Riverfront overwhelmingly praise the knowledgeable guides and the unique access to elegant lobbies of iconic Art Deco buildings. Travelers appreciate the small group size allowing for a personal experience and the detailed stories explaining the era's optimism and architectural style. Some negative points include the walking requirement, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues, and the outdoor portions in colder weather, although the indoor stops offer respite. Overall, visitors find the combination of historical insight and architectural beauty to be a rewarding and memorable way to explore Chicago’s Riverfront.
Frequently Asked Questions
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