Chicago Architecture Gilded Interiors Walking Tour

Visit the most beautiful interiors in Chicago with a local guide bringing their stories to life. Step into stunning centuries-old architecture on a guided walking tour of downtown Chicago. We go in buildings no other walking tour explores. Enter the Gold Coast, historic churches, and hear stories of wealth, scandal, and corruption. Your guide will set off on a journey through the heart of downtown Chicago's Gold Coast. Visit historic sites tied back to Abraham Lincoln, Pope Leo, and even Al Capone. Hear about the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893, which ushered in a vision of 20th-century society. This tour is designed for casual travelers and architecture hounds alike. Go where no other walking tours visit, only on Chicago Architecture: Gilded Interiors.

1. 1

   Holy Name Cathedral

   15 min

   Our guide will show you inside the sublime architecture, and significance of this sacred space shared by Pope Leo, and other historical figures.

2. 2

   Washington Square Park

   15 min

   Visit a dog park and hear stories of real life gangsters and early Chicago history. We will also enter the Newberry Library for public exhibits and rare artifacts.

3. 3

   Gold Coast

   30 min

   We will enter more Gilded Age churches and hotels as we explore the history of the area. We will pass by Gilded Age mansions owned by famous historical figures.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   Pass by

   See where Hugh Hefner's magazine empire began in Chicago.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   15 min

   From Presidents to Princess Diana, step inside one of America's most stunning and historic hotels

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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