Chicago: Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour

Chicago’s iconic Art Deco architecture is a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural significance. The Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour, led by expert guides from the Chicago Architecture Center, offers a captivating exploration of these opulent skyscrapers. Delving into the origins and design elements of the Art Deco style, the tour provides an in-depth understanding of how this celebrated architectural movement has shaped the city’s skyline. Whether you’re a design enthusiast or simply curious about Chicago’s architectural heritage, this walking tour promises to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the city’s architectural gems.

Key Points

• The Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour is a 1.5-hour guided excursion in Chicago led by an expert from the Chicago Architecture Center.
• The tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the Art Deco architectural style, including its origins, popular motifs, and how it enhances iconic Chicago skyscrapers.
• Participants will have the opportunity to explore the interiors of five opulent Art Deco buildings, gaining an in-depth understanding of this celebrated architectural movement.
• The tour includes admission to the Chicago Architecture Center exhibits, allowing participants to further their knowledge of Art Deco design.
• The tour operates rain or shine, and participants are advised to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of Art Deco

Art Deco emerged during the 1920s as a lavish, decorative architectural style that reflected the prosperity and optimism of the Roaring Twenties.

Characterized by the use of rich, opulent materials, geometric ornaments, and sleek, streamlined designs, Art Deco was a stylistic departure from the ornate, historical styles that had dominated architecture in the past.

This new aesthetic celebrated modernity, progress, and the dynamic energy of the modern city.

Designers and architects embraced the Art Deco style, incorporating its distinctive features into the exteriors and interiors of skyscrapers, theaters, hotels, and other prominent buildings.

The Art Deco style would go on to become a defining feature of the urban landscape during this dynamic era.

Tour Details

The Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour is a 1.5-hour excursion that delves into the lavish interiors and striking exteriors of five iconic Chicago skyscrapers, led by an expert guide from the Chicago Architecture Center.

The tour is limited to 10 participants and is wheelchair accessible, making it an intimate and inclusive experience.

Guests will learn about the origins and popular motifs of the Art Deco style, which reflected the prosperity and optimism of the Roaring 20s.

The tour also includes admission to the Chicago Architecture Center exhibits, providing a comprehensive exploration of this architectural movement.

Confirmation is required, and no refunds are given due to weather, as the tour runs rain or shine.

Key Highlights

Beyond the tour’s comprehensive exploration of Art Deco architecture, guests can expect to learn the origins and popular motifs of this distinctive style, which reflected the prosperity and optimism of the Roaring 20s.

Along the way, you will discover how Art Deco design elements enhance the exterior and interior of iconic Chicago skyscrapers.

The tour provides an opportunity to explore the interiors of five opulent Art Deco buildings, led by an expert guide trained by the Chicago Architecture Center.

Guests will gain an in-depth understanding of this celebrated architectural movement and its enduring influence on the city’s skyline.

Inclusions

Included in the tour are admission to the Chicago Architecture Center exhibits, a 90-minute walking tour led by a certified docent from the center, and entry into five iconic Art Deco buildings.

Visitors will learn about the origins and popular motifs of the Art Deco style as they explore the lavish materials, geometric ornaments, and architectural features that reflect the prosperity and optimism of the Roaring 20s.

The tour provides an in-depth look at how Art Deco design enhances the exterior and interior of Chicago’s skyscrapers.

With a maximum of 10 participants, the small group size ensures a personalized and engaging experience for all attendees.

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Meeting Point

Participants meet at 30 N LaSalle Street and are advised to arrive 10 minutes prior to the tour’s departure.

This is the meeting point for the Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour.

Once participants have checked in with the docent, they’ll be ready to embark on the 90-minute exploration of Chicago’s iconic Art Deco buildings.

The tour operates rain or shine, so guests should dress appropriately for the weather.

Confirmation is required before the tour, and no refunds will be given due to inclement conditions.

With the expert guidance of the docent from the Chicago Architecture Center, participants are in for an engaging and informative experience discovering the city’s magnificent Art Deco skyscrapers.

Restrictions

No pets are allowed on the tour, though service animals are welcome. Luggage and strollers can’t be stored during the tour.

Plus, there are no refunds for cancellations due to weather, as the tour runs rain or shine.

The restrictions for this Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour include:

• No pets allowed, only service animals are permitted
• No storage available for luggage or strollers
• No refunds given for weather-related cancellations
• The tour operates regardless of rain or shine conditions

Participants must arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

These practical guidelines ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants on the 90-minute walking tour to discover Chicago’s iconic Art Deco architecture.

Getting to the Tour

The tour departs from 30 N LaSalle Street, and participants are advised to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time to ensure a timely departure.

This meeting point is easily accessible, as it’s located in the heart of Chicago’s Loop neighborhood. Attendees should plan their transportation accordingly, as parking in the area can be limited.

Upon arrival, they’ll need to check in with the tour guide and present their confirmation to gain entry. It’s important to note that the tour is limited to 10 participants, so early registration is recommended to secure a spot.

The guide will be waiting at the designated meeting point, ready to lead the group on an immersive exploration of Chicago’s iconic Art Deco skyscrapers.

What to Expect

Embarking on the Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour promises an immersive exploration of Chicago’s iconic architecture, guided by experts from the Chicago Architecture Center.

During the 90-minute walk, you’ll:

• Learn the origins and popular motifs of the Art Deco style, which reflected the prosperity and optimism of the Roaring 20s.
• Discover how Art Deco enhances the exterior and interior of Chicago’s towering skyscrapers.
• Step inside 5 opulent Art Deco buildings, marveling at the lavish materials and geometric ornamentation.
• Gain a deeper appreciation for how this architectural movement transformed the city’s skyline.

Enjoy an insider’s perspective from a certified docent trained by the Chicago Architecture Center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photographs Allowed During the Tour?

Photographs are typically allowed during walking tours, but it’s best to check with the tour provider first. Some venues or locations may have restrictions on photography that visitors should be aware of before the tour begins.

How Much Walking Is Involved Throughout the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, about 90 minutes in total. Participants should be prepared to walk at a leisurely pace to explore the interiors of 5 iconic Art Deco skyscrapers during the tour.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no formal dress code, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Dress in layers, as tour venues may have varying temperatures. Casual, weather-appropriate attire is suitable for this walking tour.

Can I Join the Tour Late if I’m Running Behind?

It’s best to arrive on time for the tour. Late arrivals may not be able to join the group, as the tour begins promptly. Latecomers won’t receive the full experience and won’t be able to enter the buildings with the group.

Is There a Restroom Break During the Tour?

There are no scheduled restroom breaks during the tour. However, the tour guide can point out restroom locations along the walking route if needed. Participants are encouraged to use the restroom prior to the tour’s departure time.

Recap

The Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Chicago’s iconic architectural gems.

Guests can explore the rich history and design principles of this celebrated style, led by expert guides from the Chicago Architecture Center.

With admission to the center’s exhibits included, it’s a must-do experience for architecture enthusiasts seeking an in-depth understanding of Chicago’s Art Deco skyscrapers.

You can check availability for your dates here: