5.0 ★ · 24 reviews · from USD33
Discover the amazing history and architecture of Chicago with expert tour guide Dave Lineal. Walk among gigantic towers of downtown and learn how Chicago became a global force in culture, commerce, and architecture. Our tour will explore building interiors like the world's oldest skyscrapers, City Hall, the underground Pedway, and the old library. We will observe public art like the Picasso and the Bean. While immersed in the places where it happened, Chicago's colorful stories will vividly spring to life. This walking tour aims to enhance your understanding of modern-day Chicago by a deep dive exploration of its history. Your guide to the city is the friendly and well-informed Dave Lineal: local artist, culture vulture, and historian. Dave is tested and certified by the Chicago Tour-Guide Professionals Association. This is an outdoors / indoors all-weather walking tour with a duration of two hours. We will meet under the marquee at the Chicago Theater, 175 N. State Street.
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30 min
Chicago is named after its river! We will walk the beautiful Chicago river walk and learn why the Chicago River has been so important throughout the history of Chicago. We will also explore what the river means to Chicago today.
10 min
"The Bean!" Chicago's most iconic piece of public art sits in lively Millennium Park. We will ponder the art piece, learn about its creation, and find the spot to take the perfect Chicago Bean selfie.
10 min
Picasso's largest piece of art sits in a public plaza in Chicago. We will explore the piece that kicked off Chicago's rich heritage of public art.
10 min
Chicago has over 40 blocks of underground sidewalks. We will walk a few blocks down here and learn about this remarkable system.
10 min
The seat of Chicago government works in a massive building that dates back to 1906. We will explore the historic interior & learn about Chicago city government.
10 min
The Palmer House is the oldest continuously operated hotel in the United States. We will experience some of the grandeur of the jazz age in its astounding lobby.
20 min
Chicago's original public library was built in 1897 and today functions as a remarkable civic building called the Chicago Cultural Center. A jaw-dropping palace of culture, the building sparkles with the glass works of Tiffany and marbles from around the world.
In front of the Chicago Theater entrance on State street -- under the Chicago Theater sign
End Point
Tour will end a short walk from the Chicago Theater (where tour began)