Private Tour
Private Chicago Architecture Walking Tour
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Discover the heart of Chicago’s architectural legacy on this guided walking tour through the historic Loop District. Step back in time as you explore some of the world’s first skyscrapers and venture inside a collection of the city’s most influential and iconic buildings. Your expert local guide will share captivating stories about the rise of Chicago, the Great Fire, and the visionary architects whose bold designs shaped the skyline we know today. This tour offers the perfect mix of history, design, and city energy—a must for architecture lovers and curious travelers alike.
- Explore the birthplace of the modern skyscraper
- Step inside landmark buildings like The Rookery and the Palmer House
- Learn about the Great Chicago Fire and its lasting impact on the city
- Enjoy a relaxed pace through Chicago’s vibrant downtown Loop
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Marquette Building
The Marquette Building was one of the most profitable skyscrapers built in Chicago during the 19th-century building boom. This historic landmark stands as an ideal example of a speculative commercial office building. It was created as a collection of first class office spaces whose primary purpose was to fatten the pockets of real estate investors taking a gamble on an up-and-coming urban center.
The Rookery Building
When completed, the Rookery was thought to be the largest and finest office building in the United States. Located at the corner of LaSalle and Adams, the Rookery is one of Chicago’s most elegant buildings and a star of the LaSalle Street financial corridor.
What‘s Included
Bottled water
English speaking guide
Lunch
All Fees and Taxes
Tips for guides
Options
Chicago Architecture Walking Tour (private & all-inclusive)
Reviews
6 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A great experience
vivianaaM9629AR,,Dec 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was amazing, we had a really good time. My husband and I learned a lot about Chicago, and Colm was an amazing tour guide. He explained everything so well and made the tour very fun and cultural. we hope we can come back soon! ✨
Wonderful experience
R D,,Aug 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Our walking architecture tour was phenomenal. It was personalized, detailed and a real highlight of our time in Chicago as tourists.
Good choice!!
Marcela L,,Dec 14, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00Fantastic tour! Saw some fabulous buildings. The guide was very knowledgeable and nice. The tour was very well planned.
Great tour!!
Marce LCh,,Dec 14, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very knowledgeable and friendly guide. Took us to a lot of beautiful buildings. The tour is nicely timed. I highly recommend it!!
Great place to visit and eat steaks
marywF2334LB,,Nov 8, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Chicago is a beautiful and clean city. so many things to do and restaurants to eat , especially these two great steakhouses such as RPM steaks and Prime & Provisions! I hate to admit but in my humble (but accurate) opinion, these two, especially the RPM steaks is better than virtually all steak house in NYC, in terms of quality of steaks, seafood tower and for ever friendly smiling services!!!
Great Tour, Limited Access
Sharon C,,May 19, 2024
- Review from Viator
4.00Great tour with knowledgeable & friendly guide. 2 things to know: Lunch is not included as described (and even confirmed by Viator in a separate email), and you will not go inside every building. Weekend tours are even more limited to inside access.
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