Chicago Walking Tour: Connecting Past and Present

This lively overview of Chicago architecture explores iconic buildings from the 1890s to present. We'll compare and contrast a wide range of buildings with varying architectural styles and see how older structures connect to new skyline additions. On this tour, we'll make seven stops in downtown Chicago where we can compare the histories and styles of buildings located within sight of each other. The tour features 19th-Century Commercial, Beaux-Arts, Mid-Century Modern and Postmodern buildings, as well as the latest in architecture from Frank Gehry, Renzo Piano and Adrian Smith. At each stop, we’ll look at the connections between the past and present and discover what inspires design today. The tour culminates with a visit to Millennium Park, where world-class art and architecture combine, creating a unique urban fabric. As a certified nonprofit, all CAC ticket purchases directly support our education efforts and community engagement projects.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   10 min

   Begin and end the tour at the Chicago Architecture Center.

2. 2

   Wrigley Building

   5 min

   View the Wrigley Building and some of the surrounding buildings

3. 3

   Daley Center

   5 min

   View the Daley Center and surrounding buildings

4. 4

   Reliance Building

   5 min

   View the Reliance Building and surrounding buildings

5. 5

   Jay Pritzker Pavilion

   5 min

   View the Pritzker Pavilion and surrounding buildings

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Wheelchair accessible

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