Guided tour

Chicago's Modern Skyscrapers Guided Walking Tour

Guided tour

Chicago's Modern Skyscrapers Guided Walking Tour

From US$ 30 per person

Chicago is recognized as a leader in Modern architecture, a style that revolutionized the visual world during the mid-20th century. Learn how Chicago developed the skeleton frame Modern skyscraper and gain insights into iconic Modernist Chicago buildings.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
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Covid-19 precautions
Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details.
Duration 1.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English
Wheelchair accessible

Experience

Highlights
  • See ground-breaking modern skyscrapers by Ludwig Mies vander Rohe, Bertrand Goldberg and Harry Weese
  • Learn about many modern structures lining the Chicago River as you walk along the new River Walk
  • Discover the roots of Modernism at the Reliance Building
Full description
Join a tour which focuses on Modernism, the dominant visual style of the 20th century, which continues to strongly influence design in the 21st century. Modernism has affected the shape of everything from houses to furniture and appliances, cars and even fashion. But the most spectacular effect of Modernism has been the modern skyscraper made of steel or reinforced concrete with vast areas of glass. It is a product of the age of mass production. Chicago is widely considered the birthplace of the skeleton frame, which forms the core of the modern skyscraper. On your tour, learn about how two men made a lasting impact on Chicago, Architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and politician, Mayor Richard J. Daley. Enjoy superb views of the riverfront while walking along the River Walk. Highlighted buildings include Marina City, the Daley Center and the IBM Building.
Includes
  • Includes admission to the Chicago Architecture Center Exhibits (new)
  • Walking tour
  • Certified docent from the Chicago Architecture Center
  • Hotel pickup and drop off
  • Storage for luggage and strollers
  • Coat check

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

Meeting point

Check in inside the Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601

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Important information

Not allowed

  • Pets
  • Luggage or large bags

Know before you go

  • All tours are given by Chicago Architecture Center certified volunteer docents who receive hundreds of hours of training about Chicago’s architecture and its history. They are storytellers and Chicago experts
  • This tour is unable to provide secure storage for luggage or strollers
  • Unfortunately, there are no refunds due to the weather, tours depart rain or shine, so please dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes
  • Pets are not allowed, but service animals are welcome
Customer reviews

Overall rating

5 /5

based on 4 reviews

Review summary

  • Value for money
    5/5
  • Service
    5/5
  • Organization
    5/5

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March 28, 2022

August 23, 2019

June 28, 2019

Product ID: 176937