Chicago Architecture: A First-Timer's Guide

Chicago's architecture is world-renowned. After the Great Fire of 1871, the city became a laboratory for architectural innovation.

The Essential Tours

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise

Cost: ~$50-65 Duration: 90 minutes

The must-do tour. Docent guides explain 50+ buildings along the Chicago River.

Tips:

• Book ahead in summer

• First boat (9:30am) less crowded

• Sit starboard (right) for best skyline views

• Evening cruises are magical

Walking Tours

The Chicago Architecture Center offers themed walks:

• Loop tour (classics)

• Modern architecture

• Neighborhood-specific tours

Self-Guided Options

Download the CAC app or pick up a free map for DIY exploration.

Must-See Buildings

The Classics

Willis Tower (Sears Tower) Once world's tallest. Skydeck Ledge is thrilling.

Wrigley Building Gleaming white terra cotta. Especially beautiful at night.

Tribune Tower Neo-Gothic masterpiece with stones from world landmarks embedded in walls.

Merchandise Mart Once largest building in the world by floor area.

Marina City "Corn cob" towers. Icon of 1960s optimism.

Modern Icons

Aqua Tower Undulating balconies designed by Jeanne Gang.

Apple Store (Michigan Ave) Norman Foster's ultramodern design with MacBook-like roof.

The Bean (Cloud Gate) Anish Kapoor's reflective sculpture. Not a building, but essential.

St. Regis (Vista Tower) New addition to skyline with distinctive curves.

Historic Gems

Rookery Building Burnham & Root exterior, Frank Lloyd Wright interior lobby.

Chicago Cultural Center World's largest Tiffany dome. Free to visit!

Auditorium Building Louis Sullivan masterpiece. Stunning theater inside.

Monadnock Building Oldest surviving skyscraper. Striking simplicity.

Frank Lloyd Wright

Oak Park

Just west of Chicago, home to the world's largest collection of Wright buildings.

Must-see:

• Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio

• Unity Temple

• 25 Wright-designed homes (walking distance)

How to visit: Take the Green Line to Oak Park. Walking tours available.

Robie House (Hyde Park)

Prairie School masterpiece. Tours available.

Neighborhood Architecture

Beyond downtown:

Pilsen Murals, historic churches, Mexican cultural expression.

Pullman Planned industrial town, now National Monument.

Bronzeville Historic African American neighborhood with significant buildings.

Gold Coast Gilded Age mansions and early high-rises.

Viewing Spots

Best places to take in the skyline:

• North Avenue Beach

• Adler Planetarium steps

• 360 Chicago (John Hancock)

• Rooftop bars throughout West Loop

Resources

• Chicago Architecture Center - Tours, exhibits, everything

• Open House Chicago - Free annual event (October)

• Geoffrey Baer documentaries - WTTW productions

• Archidose blog - Deep dives into Chicago buildings