Categories: Chicago Architecture

Chicago Architecture Foundation

Author: Jody Robbins

Chicago Architecture Foundation Exhibits
Chicago 's early days as a booming Midwestern city came with a price, paid—at least in part—in the form of public byways so muddy that a horse and rider could disappear in a mud hole and never reappear, or so they say. So, in typical Chicago style, early designers and civic officials thought big and raised the city out of the mud. In the process, building methods like steel framing allowed the city to not only raise itself into the air, and the modern skyscraper was born. Chronicling and supporting this fertile field since 1966, the Chicago Architecture Foundation is an integral component in the architectural life of the city today, and its programs instill civic pride in more than 600,000 visitors per year. 

• Devil in the White City Companion Bus Tour
  The World's Columbian Exposition of 1893 put Chicago on the map right from the start, with its technologically-forward use of electric lighting to illuminate the wide range of exhibits. What was not illuminated until Devil in the White City was published by Erik Larson: the nation's first serial killer was also birthed by the exposition. Read the book (don't worry, it's a page turner), then enjoy a slide presentation and a bus exploration of the fair's hot spots and an overall look at how the fair affected the lives of the people who lived it. The tour lasts just over three hours and kicks off on April 20 at 10:30 a.m., then continues on Fridays and Sundays throughout the summer. Cost to non-members of the CAF is $55; $45 for seniors and students; become a member and pay only $40. Reservations are required.

• Lloyd Wright and His Contemporaries
  This walk explores another area of Oak Park 's historic district and features approximately 20 residences designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, George Maher, Thomas Tallmadge and Vernon Watson, E. E. Roberts, and John Van Bergen between 1900 and 1920. These architects shared a common ideal of producing an original American style of architecture. This tour complements the Frank Lloyd Wright in Oak Park walking tour. Available May through October; third Sunday of the month at 11 a.m.

• Historic Skyscrapers
  Chicago is not only the birthplace of the skyscraper, it is also where most of the innovations in early skyscraper design and technology was developed. Take a step back in time for an informative look at some of our world famous early skyscrapers including: Burnham and Root's Rookery (1888) with its Moorish revival exterior and restored Frank Lloyd Wright interior; Adler and Sullivan's Auditorium Building (1889) a masterpiece of engineering, design and acoustics; Holabird and Roche's Marquette Building (1895) an outstanding example of the Chicago School of design; and Holabird and Root's Chicago Board of Trade Building (1930), one of the city's most glamorous Art Deco skyscrapers. Available throughout the year.

Alternative Architecture Tour 
Take advantage of the city's position next to Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, and Mercury Chicago's Skyline Cruiseline is just the way to do it. Look for the blue awning at the top of the stairs at Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, at the southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, and get ready to see the city from a totally different vantage point. Tours depart daily May 12-Sept. 30. Possibilities include the “Urban Adventure Cruise,” a 90-minute tour of both the backward flowing Chicago River and Lake Michigan. You'll hear the scoop on 17 bridges and 82 different buildings and landmarks; also, keep an eye out as you pass through the Chicago River locking system as you head out onto Lake Michigan for amazing views of the Chicago skyline. Cost: Adults $20; children under 12, $9. Also highly recommended is the two-hour “City Lights Extravaganza” tour, on which you'll see Chicago's skyline as the sun sets, and as the lights come on. This tour is offered from Memorial Day to Labor Day at 7:30 p.m.; there is also a 9 p.m. Saturday tour that includes watching the city's weekly, lakefront fireworks show from the water.

Chicago Architectural Foundation General Info

• Cost
  Adults $22
  Children under 12, $12.
• Tickets for all tours are sold on site daily 9 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Groups of 20 or more should call 312-332-1366 or 312-332-1368.

• Parking
  Discounted parking available across the street at 111 E. Wacker Drive. Systems Parking offers a reduced Rate of $10.00 for 3 hours of parking. Please have your parking ticket stamped at our ticket office.
• Website: www.mercuryskyline.com. For more information on the Chicago Architectural Foundation's visit them online at www.architecture.org.

Check out places of interest near Chicago Architecture Foundation:

Bluprint
222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 135, Chicago, IL 60654

Set at the Merchandise Mart, Bluprint offers a modern American menu and an interesting beverage program--meaning, great cocktails!

 

Elephant & Castle
185 North Wabash, Chicago, Illinois 60601

At this English pub in Chicago, expect a mix of traditional English pub fare and American menu items are served here; English-style breakfast is also a draw

Elephant & Castle
111 W. Adams St., Chicago, IL 60603

At this English pub in Chicago, expect a mix of traditional English pub fare and American menu items are served here; English-style breakfast is also a draw

Italian Village
71 W. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603

One of Chicago's oldest and most venerated restaurants, Italian Village has been doing it right for more than 80 years.

Park Grill
11 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60602

Specializing in classic American cuisine with a hint of sophistication, Park Grill is versatile venue with an equally broad menu.

 

The Gage
24. S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60603

The Gage offers high-end Irish fare with a touch of elegance and class. Located near Millenium Park, this restaurant offers traditional Irish foods along with all-American favorites.

 

Walnut Room
111 N State Street, Chicago, IL 60602

The historic Walnut Room, located on Macy's seventh floor, has been a premier Chicago dining destination since 1907.

ZED451
739 N Clark St., Chicago, IL 60610

ZED451 offers a guest-focused, intimate dining experience.  Chefs not only prepare the meal, but present it as well.

 

Garrett Popcorn Shop
4 East Madison Ave., Chicago, IL 60602

Since 1949, Chicagoans have been enjoying Garrett Popcorn, Carmel Corn, and Cheese Corn. The popcorn is hot-air popped using no oils or fats.

Macy's
835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

Part of Water Tower Place, this is a second downtown location of this famed department store.

Macy's On State Street
111 N. State St, Chicago, IL 60602

Taking up an entire Chicago shopping block on State Street, this landmark department store opened in 1852 and continues to offer top levels of service and merchandise.

Italian Village
71 W. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603

One of Chicago's oldest and most venerated restaurants, Italian Village has been doing it right for more than 80 years.

The Gage
24. S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60603

The Gage offers high-end Irish fare with a touch of elegance and class. Located near Millenium Park, this restaurant offers traditional Irish foods along with all-American favorites.

 

Chicago Architecture Foundation
224 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60602

The Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF) offers a 88 different tours in total. You can explore the city by bus, boat, bike on foot or even via a segway.

Chicago Line Cruises
455 E. Illinois St., Chicago, IL 60611

Premier boat-based tour service offering cruises focused on architecture, history, or private charters, serving complimentary coffee and muffins.  Group rates available, and tickets available online.

 

Chicago Symphony Orchestra
220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60604

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is the heartbeat of Chicago. The CSO has numerous concerts and special events throughout the year. See the full list at their website. Tickets range from $10 to $200.

Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Bus Co.
401 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60609

Daily tours of Chicago in San Fransisco-style trolleys and London-style buses, narrated by expert guides, are offered here. Take Chicago trolley tours as a worry-free way to get around the city of Chicago; it's "Hop On Hop Off".

 

Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio
951 Chicago Ave. , Oak Park, IL 60302

The home and studio of the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

 

Glessner House Museum
1800 S. Prairie Ave., Chicago, IL 60616

An architectually celebrated house designed in 1886 by one of Frank Lloyd Wright's inspirations, Henry Hobson Richardson, on the South side with an expansive collection of 19th and 20th century art and furniture. The non-traditional design paired located in the wealthy Prairie Avenue district invites visitors to look back and experience a time when Chicago was blossoming into an urban empire.

 

John Hancock Center Observatory
875 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60661

See Chicago from the top of the Hancock Building in the heart of downtown. The John Hancock Center Observatory offers Chicago views at their finest.

 

Macy's On State Street
111 N. State St, Chicago, IL 60602

Taking up an entire Chicago shopping block on State Street, this landmark department store opened in 1852 and continues to offer top levels of service and merchandise.

Millennium Park
201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60610

Millennium Park has become Chicago’s newest main stage attraction. Aligned with the city’s emphasis on architectural innovation, this 24.5-acre phenomenon integrates historical significance with contemporary style from a number of international players. It is bordered by Michigan Avenue to the west, Columbus Drive to the east, Randolph Street to the north and Monroe Street to the south.

Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Ave. , Chicago, IL 60605

Navy Pier, one of the top tourist attractions in Chicago and the country, is visited by almost nine million visitors per years. From dining to shopping, boat tours to countless entertainment options, Navy Pier in Chicago is a must-stop for a wide range of visitors--Chicago residents already know and love it!

Shoreline Sightseeing
474 N.Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60611

Chidago's largest boat touring company offers "Architecture Cruises" from Navy Pier, plus Skyline Boat Tours and Water Taxis. Special fireworks cruises are scheduled seasonally!

Weekend service April and November-daily service from 10:00 am May - October. On Chicago's waterways since 1939. Group rates; buy tickets online or by phone at no additional fee.

Soldier Field
1410 South Museum Campus Drive, Chicago, IL 60605

Historic home of the Chicago Bears, Soldier Field is sacred space to Chicago's legions of Bears fans.    

 

Spertus Museum
610 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60605

At Chicago's Spertus Museum, expect to see a permanent collection of Judaica, a hands-on archaeology exhibit for children, and temporary and raveling exhibitions.

The Morton Arboretum
4100 Illinois Highway 53, Lisle, IL 60532

A top Chicago nature site, The Morton Arboretum boasts more than 3,000 trees, shrubs, and other vegetation across its 1,700-acre site.

Wendella Sightseeing Boats
400 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

Located on the Magnificent Mile, Wendella Boats are guided by expert staff.

 

Chicago Line Cruises
455 E. Illinois St., Chicago, IL 60611

Premier boat-based tour service offering cruises focused on architecture, history, or private charters, serving complimentary coffee and muffins.  Group rates available, and tickets available online.

 

Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Bus Co.
401 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60609

Daily tours of Chicago in San Fransisco-style trolleys and London-style buses, narrated by expert guides, are offered here. Take Chicago trolley tours as a worry-free way to get around the city of Chicago; it's "Hop On Hop Off".

 

Shoreline Sightseeing
474 N.Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60611

Chidago's largest boat touring company offers "Architecture Cruises" from Navy Pier, plus Skyline Boat Tours and Water Taxis. Special fireworks cruises are scheduled seasonally!

Weekend service April and November-daily service from 10:00 am May - October. On Chicago's waterways since 1939. Group rates; buy tickets online or by phone at no additional fee.