Overview
Looking for iconic Mid-Century Modern architecture? What better place than Chicago with its triumvirate of modern architects (Mies van der Rohe, Bertrand Goldberg and SOM) and a city ready and willing to accept them. Find out what set these buildings apart from their predecessors and how they helped set the stage for the future.
If you’re interested in iconic buildings, public art, urban planning or government this is your tour. Find out the stories behind inland steel, Marina city, the IBM building and other "Mad Men" worthy skyscrapers.
As a certified nonprofit, all CAC ticket purchases directly support our education efforts and community engagement projects.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Admission to the Galleries of the Chicago Architecture Center
Walking tour of Chicago's modern and postmodern architecture
Narration by a professional and certified guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Storage for luggage or strollers
Coat check
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Meet at the Chicago Architecture Center at 111 E Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL, 60601
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the departure time and present your ticket to the box office at the Chicago Architecture Center.
What to expect
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Chicago Architecture Center
10 min
Your tour begins at the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC), formerly the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Visit the CAC to view a 4,000-building scale model of Chicago or shop in the award-winning store.
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One Prudential Plaza
10 min
View the Prudential Building.
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Aon Center
10 min
View the Aon Center.
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Inland Steel Building
10 min
View the Inland Steel Building.
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Daley Center
15 min
Marvel at Richard J. Daley Center, one of the first buildings to be covered in an unpainted steel called Cor-Ten. The docent will also discuss the famous "Chicago Picasso" artwork in the plaza.
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AMA Plaza
15 min
Discuss the AMA Plaza, formerly home to the office of Mies van der Rohe.
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Marina City
15 min
Highlights include Marina City, a mixed-use residential-commercial building designed by architect Bertrand Goldberg, envisioned as an urban experiment designed to draw middle-class Chicagoans back to the city after more than a decade of suburban migration.
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Apple Michigan Avenue
15 min
View the Apple Store on Michigan Avenue.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Chicago).
Additional Information
- The itinerary of this tour is subject to change without notice.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
FAQs about Chicago Walking Tour: Modern Architecture
Can I cancel Chicago Walking Tour: Modern Architecture for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 1 hour 30 min.
Where does it start?
Meet at the Chicago Architecture Center at 111 E Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL, 60601
What's included?
- Admission to the Galleries of the Chicago Architecture Center
- Walking tour of Chicago's modern and postmodern architecture
- Narration by a professional and certified guide
What's not included?
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Storage for luggage or strollers
- Coat check
Which places does it visit?
It visits Chicago Architecture Center, One Prudential Plaza, Aon Center, Inland Steel Building, Daley Center, AMA Plaza, Marina City, Apple Michigan Avenue.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Operated by Chicago Architecture Center
