ntripntrip logo

Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour

4.6
(25 reviews)
Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour Gallery Image 1
Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour Gallery Image 2
Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour Gallery Image 3
Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour Gallery Image 4

Tour the lobbies of five opulent Art Deco skyscrapers built near the banks of the Chicago River during the business boom of the Roaring '20s.

Art Deco abounds in Chicago. The style made its way to the city in the 1920s, after it was showcased at an international art exposition in Paris. It was widely seen at the 1933-1934 Century of Progress Exposition in Chicago as well.

Influenced by Cubism and the art and architecture of the ancient Middle East, Art Deco can be found in popular motifs like zigzags, octagons, sunbursts and flowers. Art Deco reflects the era’s fun-loving optimism with lavish materials and geometric ornaments.

Discover the origins of Art Deco while admiring buildings like the Carbide and Carbon Building (now the St. Jane Hotel), the Chicago Motor Club Building (now the Hampton Inn), the colorful, but often overlooked, Trustees System Service Building (now the Century Tower) and the Engineering Building—all of which are designated Chicago landmarks. This tour ends at the Merchandise Mart.

Tickets purchased for experiences run by the Chicago Architecture Center help build the greater Chicago community.

When you hit the pavement on a walking tour, set sail on an award-winning river cruise (Chicago's First Lady), or visit the Center, you’re helping fund Chicago Architecture Center education initiatives like Girls Build!, Teen Fellows and the Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition. Or you may be helping to keep programs like Open House Chicago free for participants for years to come. As a certified nonprofit, all Chicago Architecture Center ticket purchases directly support local education efforts and community engagement projects.

About this activity

  • Free cancellation

    Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

  • Reserve now & pay later

    Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.

  • Duration 1.5 hours

    Check availability to see starting times

  • Live tour guide

    English

  • Wheelchair accessible

  • Small group

    Limited to 10 participants

Highlights

  • Learn the origins of Art Deco and discover its popular motifs
  • See how Art Deco enhances the soaring exteriors and opulent interiors of some of the city's most extraordinary skyscrapers
  • Delight in the beauty of the interiors of 5 opulent Art Deco skyscrapers
  • Learn from your local expert guide, trained by the Chicago Architecture Center – the city’s leading authority on architecture

Description

Tour the lobbies of five opulent Art Deco skyscrapers built near the banks of the Chicago River during the business boom of the Roaring '20s. Art Deco abounds in Chicago. The style made its way to the city in the 1920s, after it was showcased at an international art exposition in Paris. It was widely seen at the 1933-1934 Century of Progress Exposition in Chicago as well. Influenced by Cubism and the art and architecture of the ancient Middle East, Art Deco can be found in popular motifs like zigzags, octagons, sunbursts and flowers. Art Deco reflects the era’s fun-loving optimism with lavish materials and geometric ornaments. Discover the origins of Art Deco while admiring buildings like the Carbide and Carbon Building (now the St. Jane Hotel), the Chicago Motor Club Building (now the Hampton Inn), the colorful, but often overlooked, Trustees System Service Building (now the Century Tower) and the Engineering Building—all of which are designated Chicago landmarks. This tour ends at the Merchandise Mart. Tickets purchased for experiences run by the Chicago Architecture Center help build the greater Chicago community. When you hit the pavement on a walking tour, set sail on an award-winning river cruise (Chicago's First Lady), or visit the Center, you’re helping fund Chicago Architecture Center education initiatives like Girls Build!, Teen Fellows and the Newhouse Architecture + Design Competition. Or you may be helping to keep programs like Open House Chicago free for participants for years to come. As a certified nonprofit, all Chicago Architecture Center ticket purchases directly support local education efforts and community engagement projects.

Inclusions

  • New: admission to the Chicago Architecture Center exhibits
  • 90-minute walking tour
  • Entry into 5 iconic Art Deco buildings
  • Certified docent from the Chicago Architecture Center

Traveler Ratings

See how travelers have rated this attraction. Check out the average rating and read what others have shared about their experiences

4.6 / 5

4.64 out of 5 stars

Based on 25 reviews

Review histogram

5

0%

4

0%

3

0%

2

0%

1

0%

Traveler Reviews

Discover what other travelers have to say about this attraction. Read their reviews and get insights into their experiences

Jennifer
Wonderful tour of stunning Art Deco gems around Chicago. Thoroughly recommend it. Very informative guide. Wear comfy shoes!
Noe
Very good experience and the pace and knowledge shared was very good and informative

Related Attractions

Explore similar attractions that other travelers have enjoyed. Discover more options to enhance your travel experience

The Art Institute of Chicago: Skip The Line Ticket + Semi-Private Guided Tour - Image 1

The Art Institute of Chicago: Skip The Line Ticket + Semi-Private Guided TourThe Art Institute of Chicago: Skip The Line Ticket + Semi-Private Guided Tour

5.0(4)
Tours

The Art Institute of Chicago attracts nearly as many visitors as other leading galleries, like the Met, Louvre, and the British Museum - and with good reason! On this 2 - 2.5-hour, semi-private guided tour, you’ll be able to skip the line and explore...

$74

per adult

Full-Day Guided City Tour by Bus - Image 2

Full-Day Guided City Tour by BusFull-Day Guided City Tour by Bus

4.5(1155)
ToursBus ToursCity ToursBoat Tours

Discover the best of Chicago in one day on a guided bus tour. See iconic highlights like Millennium Park, Grant Park, Michigan Avenue, and more. Upgrade to visit the Art Institute of Chicago, go for a river cruise, or visit the 360 Chicago observatio...

$121

per adult

Best of Attractions Walking Tour +Bike/Kayak Rental - Image 3

Best of Attractions Walking Tour +Bike/Kayak RentalBest of Attractions Walking Tour +Bike/Kayak Rental

5.0(4)
Kayaking & CanoeingToursWalking Tours

Embark on a 2-hour guided stroll through the heart of Chicago, immersing yourself in the vibrant tapestry and unique experiences that define Chicago's identity – appreciate the architectural marvels like the Magnificent Mile and the Wrigley Building,...

$40

per adult

Evolution of the Skyscraper Walking Tour - Image 4

Evolution of the Skyscraper Walking TourEvolution of the Skyscraper Walking Tour

4.7(9)
ToursWalking ToursBoat Tours

This 90-minute tour is a chronological overview of Chicago's architecture, starting with its growth on the Chicago River, its rebirth after the Great Chicago Fire and its development into a commercial and cultural hub. See how architects adapted bui...

$27

per adult

Chicago Crime & Mob Bus Tour: Criminals, Mobsters and Gangsters - Image 5

Chicago Crime & Mob Bus Tour: Criminals, Mobsters and GangstersChicago Crime & Mob Bus Tour: Criminals, Mobsters and Gangsters

4.7(17)
ToursBus Tours

Some of the world's most famous criminals and gangsters bamboozled their way through Chicago, and now you can follow in their shady, calculating footsteps! Find out what propelled the likes of Al Capone, the Untouchables, the Chicago Mob, John Dillin...

$49

per adult

Chicago Criminals, Mobsters and Gangsters Bus History Tour - Image 6

Chicago Criminals, Mobsters and Gangsters Bus History TourChicago Criminals, Mobsters and Gangsters Bus History Tour

4.6(2775)
Tours

Your tour will begin in Chicago’s Near North Side, across the street from Water Tower Place, where you will board your coach vehicle.  On board, an experienced guide narrates during your tour of Chicago’s famed criminal and historical sights....

$49

per adult

Interior Architecture Walking Tour Inside the Loop - Image 1

Interior Architecture Walking Tour Inside the LoopInterior Architecture Walking Tour Inside the Loop

5.0(1104)
ToursWalking Tours

Discover the hidden gems of Chicago’s Loop area on a walking tour that showcases the best of the neighborhood’s stunning interiors and architectural must-sees. Step behind the facades to explore beautifully designed interiors—from art deco sp...

$35

per adult

2-Hour Chicago Lakefront & Museum Campus Segway Tour - Image 2

2-Hour Chicago Lakefront & Museum Campus Segway Tour2-Hour Chicago Lakefront & Museum Campus Segway Tour

5.0(284)
ToursSegway Tours

Explore Chicago by Segway with the benefit of a scenic 7- or 8-mile tour led by your guide. Start with an orientation to operating the Segway and a few minutes to practice. Then roll through the paths of Grant Park to Buckingham Fountain and ...

$64

per adult

Lakefront, Museum Campus Small-Group Segway Tour - Image 3

Lakefront, Museum Campus Small-Group Segway TourLakefront, Museum Campus Small-Group Segway Tour

5.0(218)
ToursSegway Tours

Experience Chicago in a new way on this small-group Segway tour. Visit Chicago’s ‘front yard,’ the beautiful lakefront and 57-acre Museum Campus. Glide along the fragrant floral paths of Grant Park to the famous Buckingham Fountain. Then, tra...

$64

per adult

Art Institute of Chicago Guided Tour and Skip the Line Ticket - Image 4

Art Institute of Chicago Guided Tour and Skip the Line TicketArt Institute of Chicago Guided Tour and Skip the Line Ticket

5.0(196)
Tours

Make the most of your time at the Art Institute of Chicago by avoiding the crowds to get in. Whether you’re an art aficionado or beginner, this opportunity lets your learn about the museum and its pieces through the eyes of an art historian g...

$74

per adult

Chicago Murder Mystery and Sightseeing Walking Tour - Image 5

Chicago Murder Mystery and Sightseeing Walking TourChicago Murder Mystery and Sightseeing Walking Tour

4.9(493)
ToursWalking Tours

Bored of traditional walking tours? Try an experience that mixes sightseeing with an engaging game in this murder mystery tour through Chicago. Play as a detective and a suspect as you wander through various neighborhoods and see the city. Le...

$35

per adult

Art Institute of Chicago Small-Group Highlights Tour - Image 6

Art Institute of Chicago Small-Group Highlights TourArt Institute of Chicago Small-Group Highlights Tour

5.0(113)
Tours

Explore one of the country’s great art museums—and discover many of its collection highlights—on this small-group Art Institute of Chicago tour. Meet your guide right out front, and see works from artists the likes of Picasso, Chagall, Seurat...

$90

per adult

Downtown Chicago Architecture, Art, and History Walking Tour - Image 7

Downtown Chicago Architecture, Art, and History Walking TourDowntown Chicago Architecture, Art, and History Walking Tour

5.0(106)
ToursWalking Tours

This walking tour is a feast for the eyes, combining art, architecture, and history as you navigate through bustling downtown Chicago. In a small group, you’ll marvel at skyscrapers and mosaic murals as you discover stories and secrets about ...

$33

per adult

West Side Neighborhoods Foodie Small-Group Bike Tour - Image 8

West Side Neighborhoods Foodie Small-Group Bike TourWest Side Neighborhoods Foodie Small-Group Bike Tour

5.0(104)
ToursBike Tours

Make your way to Chicago's Streeterville neighborhood near Navy Pier to meet your guide and group. Get set up with your helmet and bike, then pedal off through the River North neighborhood, across the Chicago River, and over to Fulton ...

$99

per adult

Chicago Small-Group Digital and Polaroid Photo Shoot - Image 1

Chicago Small-Group Digital and Polaroid Photo ShootChicago Small-Group Digital and Polaroid Photo Shoot

5.0(26)
Parks

Don’t leave Chicago without taking home professional digital and polaroid shots of your visit. Starting from the iconic Millennium Park, your photographer guide takes you to some of the city’s most photogenic landmarks to take photos of you t...

$169

per adult

Private Lake Michigan Sailing Charter and Sightseeing Chicago Skyline Cruise - Image 2

Private Lake Michigan Sailing Charter and Sightseeing Chicago Skyline CruisePrivate Lake Michigan Sailing Charter and Sightseeing Chicago Skyline Cruise

5.0(24)
Bodies of Water

Enjoy a private two and a half hour sailing experience for up to four people along Chicago’s beautiful lakefront. Kick back, relax, and let the US Coast Guard licensed captain treat you to stunning views of Chicago’s spectacular skyline. Make...

$488

per adult

Chicago Lake Michigan Private Sunset Sailing Charter - Image 3

Chicago Lake Michigan Private Sunset Sailing CharterChicago Lake Michigan Private Sunset Sailing Charter

5.0(24)
Bodies of Water

Soak up unbeatable views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline—and stay on the water long enough to watch the lights come on in the city—on this private, sunset sailing tour. This charter is completely customizable, giving you the chance t...

$508

per adult

Historical and Architectural Chicago Fireboat River/Lake Cruise - Image 4

Historical and Architectural Chicago Fireboat River/Lake CruiseHistorical and Architectural Chicago Fireboat River/Lake Cruise

4.9(36)
Bodies of Water

Travel on a piece of history, learning Chicago fire history as well as Architecture! We travel on Lake Michigan and through the Chicago River seeing the sights. Perfect for Fire enthusiasts, families and everyone in between! Our flagship vess...

$45

per adult

Lincoln Park Hauntings Ghost Investigation Tour - Image 5

Lincoln Park Hauntings Ghost Investigation TourLincoln Park Hauntings Ghost Investigation Tour

4.9(32)
Parks

Arrive at Lincoln Park after dark, leaving room in your day to complete other activities on your itinerary. Join forces with your personal paranormal investigator and begin to take a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood.Delve into...

$40

per adult

Chicago River Architecture Cruise History and Sightseeing Tour - Image 6

Chicago River Architecture Cruise History and Sightseeing TourChicago River Architecture Cruise History and Sightseeing Tour

4.8(14178)
Bodies of Water

Make your way to either Navy Pier or Michigan Avenue (depending on option chosen) for your cruise departure. Board your riverboat and find a comfortable seat; a restroom is available on the boat. Listen as your guide, an architecture e...

$49

per adult

45-Minute Private Helicopter Flight for 1-3 People - Image 7

45-Minute Private Helicopter Flight for 1-3 People45-Minute Private Helicopter Flight for 1-3 People

4.8(73)
Bodies of WaterParks

Enjoy spectacular views of Chicago from an MD500 helicopter. This helicopter flight over Chicago covers all the important highlights of the city from McCormick Place and Soldiers Field in the South to Wrigley Field in the North. Depart from Schaumbu...

$756

per adult

Architecture cruise in Spanish on the Chicago River from Michigan Ave - Image 8

Architecture cruise in Spanish on the Chicago River from Michigan AveArchitecture cruise in Spanish on the Chicago River from Michigan Ave

4.8(131)
Bodies of Water

This picturesque cruise is led by a professional Spanish speaking guide who shares exciting details and the historical significance of the buildings that line the Chicago River. Boarding at the dock on Michigan Avenue, you'll sail down all th...

$54

per adult

Chicago American Writers Museum Skip-the-Line Admission Ticket - Image 1

Chicago American Writers Museum Skip-the-Line Admission TicketChicago American Writers Museum Skip-the-Line Admission Ticket

4.9(68)
Museums

Immerse yourself in American literary traditions, and enjoy a wide range of interactive exhibitions, during a visit to Chicago’s one-of-a-kind American Writers Museum. Conveniently located on Michigan Avenue, the museum was established in 201...

$16

per adult

The Art Institute of Chicago: Fast Pass - Image 2

The Art Institute of Chicago: Fast PassThe Art Institute of Chicago: Fast Pass

4.8(522)
MuseumsArt Museums

Home to some of the world's most recognizable artworks, the Art Institute of Chicago is America's second-largest art museum. Seeing famous art at the Art Institute of Chicago is a reliable way to ensure your day in the Windy City is nothing short of ...

$40

per adult

The Art Institute of Chicago: Fast Pass - Image 3

The Art Institute of Chicago: Fast PassThe Art Institute of Chicago: Fast Pass

4.8(414)
MuseumsArt Museums

Home to some of the world's most recognizable artworks, the Art Institute of Chicago is America's second-largest art museum. Seeing famous art at the Art Institute of Chicago is a reliable way to ensure your day in the Windy City is nothing s...

$40

per adult

Chicago History Museum: Entry Ticket - Image 4

Chicago History Museum: Entry TicketChicago History Museum: Entry Ticket

4.8(80)
MuseumsHistory Museums

Explore the history of Chicago and United States through permanent and temporary exhibitions drawn from more than 20 million items in the Chicago History Museum. Showcasing photography, documents, artifacts, and interviews, the permanent and ...

$17

per adult

Chicago CityPASS®: Save up to 49% at 5 Top Attractions - Image 5

Chicago CityPASS®: Save up to 49% at 5 Top AttractionsChicago CityPASS®: Save up to 49% at 5 Top Attractions

4.6(646)
Observatories/PlanetariumsMuseums

Experience 5 must-see attractions and save up to 49% with Chicago CityPASS® tickets. One simple purchase removes the stress of planning, so you can relax and enjoy your memories in the making. With 9 days to use your tickets, you’ll have plenty of ti...

$126

per adult

American Writers Museum Flexible Date Entry Ticket - Image 6

American Writers Museum Flexible Date Entry TicketAmerican Writers Museum Flexible Date Entry Ticket

4.6(99)
Museums

Learn about the history of writing and how it has shaped American culture with a ticket to the American Writers Museum in Chicago. Stroll through exhibits that appeal to all 5 senses, explore the intricacies of language through games, and write your ...

Go City | Chicago All-Inclusive Pass - Image 7

Go City | Chicago All-Inclusive PassGo City | Chicago All-Inclusive Pass

5.0(4)
Museums

Welcome to the windy city! Home to world-famous art museums, iconic architecture and delicious food, Chicago is a perfect blend of midwestern hospitality and dynamic urban metropolis all set against the beautiful backdrop of Lake Michigan. Do...

$139

per adult

Color Factory Chicago General Admission Ticket - Image 8

Color Factory Chicago General Admission TicketColor Factory Chicago General Admission Ticket

5.0(4)
Museums

Voted the #1 Immersive Art Experience in America by USA Today readers in 2024, Color Factory Chicago celebrates the joy of color. Embark on a bright and colorful journey through 14+ immersive installations that inspire joy and human connection, expa...

$32

per adult

360 Chicago Observation Deck: Skip The Line Entry Ticket - Image 1

360 Chicago Observation Deck: Skip The Line Entry Ticket360 Chicago Observation Deck: Skip The Line Entry Ticket

4.5(199)
Observation Decks/Towers

It might be called the Windy City but from the 94th floor of downtown Chicago's John Hancock Center, you'll see a lot more than windswept trees. 360 Chicago offers incredible views of the city and Lake Michigan, plus four neighboring states. ...

$30

per adult

Willis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge Ticket - Image 2

Willis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge TicketWillis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge Ticket

4.4(3744)
Observation Decks/TowersWharfs/Piers/Boardwalks

Enjoy an unrivaled view over the city of Chicago on a trip up the city's Willis Tower. This famous building, once known as the Sears Tower, is not only home to a Skydeck on the 103rd floor, but it also features The Ledge, a series of 4 glass-paneled ...

$29

per adult

Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket - Image 3

Navy Pier Centennial Wheel TicketNavy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket

4.4(1796)
Wharfs/Piers/Boardwalks

Experience the views from the Centennial Wheel at the Historic Navy Pier in Chicago with this attraction ticket. Be suspended over Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Chicago River. Marvel at the Chicago skyline and gaze out over the sparkling waters o...

$20

per adult

360 Chicago Observation Deck Fast Pass Ticket - Image 4

360 Chicago Observation Deck Fast Pass Ticket360 Chicago Observation Deck Fast Pass Ticket

4.5(11)
NeighborhoodsObservation Decks/Towers

Travel to the 94th floor of the former John Hancock Center in just 40 seconds on one of North America’s fastest elevators. Step foot onto the observation deck to experience breathtaking views of the Chicago Skyline and Lake Michigan. Take in the cit...

$49

per adult

360 Chicago Observation Deck Sip and View Ticket - Image 5

360 Chicago Observation Deck Sip and View Ticket360 Chicago Observation Deck Sip and View Ticket

4.4(254)
NeighborhoodsObservation Decks/Towers

Take in the beautiful views of Chicago as you enjoy a drink from our carefully curated Sip menu. 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck sits 1,000 feet over Chicago’s legendary Michigan Avenue. Located on the 94th floor of 875 N. Michigan (formerly the John Ha...

$39

per adult

Chicago Skyline Pass - Image 6

Chicago Skyline PassChicago Skyline Pass

4.5(17)
Observation Decks/Towers

From stuffed pizza crusts to windswept walks, Chicago is one American city that wants to entertain you! This specially curated package has been designed to tick-off sky-high views and the city's best architecture from your to-do list. Get easy ac...

$120

per adult

360 Chicago Observation Deck General Admission - Image 7

360 Chicago Observation Deck General Admission360 Chicago Observation Deck General Admission

4.4(2497)
NeighborhoodsObservation Decks/Towers

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck sits 1,000 feet over Chicago’s legendary Michigan Avenue. Located on the 94th floor of 875 N. Michigan (formerly the John Hancock Center), 360 CHICAGO gives you the opportunity to experience the best views of the Chicago ...

$27

per adult

360 Chicago Observation Deck Tickets - Image 8

360 Chicago Observation Deck Tickets360 Chicago Observation Deck Tickets

4.4(1834)
NeighborhoodsObservation Decks/Towers

360 CHICAGO’s concourse level includes an interactive exhibit highlighting the history of Chicago and the vibrant cultures and businesses across Chicago neighbourhoods. Get inspired to explore Chicago beyond downtown after watching a short do...

$30

per adult