Step into the glamorous world of Chicago during the 1920s and 1930s with the History of the Jazz Age at Chicago Art Deco Architecture Tour. Priced at $67 per person and lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, this guided walking experience offers a close-up look at some of the city’s most striking Art Deco skyscrapers. With a small group size and a knowledgeable local guide, visitors can enjoy an intimate, educational journey through the Windy City’s architectural boom period.

This tour is perfect for those interested in historic architecture, urban history, and 1920s culture. It features inside access to notable buildings, photo opportunities, and insights that reveal stories behind Chicago’s famed skyscrapers. While the tour covers a considerable amount of ground in a short time, it involves walking and moderate physical activity, making it suitable for most visitors.

Key Points

Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Price: $67 per person, including all fees and taxes
Focus: Chicago’s Art Deco architecture and Jazz Age history
Stops: Visits to notable buildings like the Rookery Building and Chicago Board of Trade
Inclusions: Access to the Chicago Architecture Center galleries and inside views of selected buildings
Group Size: Small groups for a more personalized experience
Guide: Led by enthusiastic local experts who share detailed stories and insights

Start at 30 North LaSalle for a Historic Skyscraper Overview

The tour begins at 30 North LaSalle Street, where you’ll observe a building completed in 1975, built on the site of the original Chicago Stock Exchange Building. Your guide shares the history of this site and discusses the evolution of Chicago’s skyscraper design, highlighting its architectural significance. This stop sets the stage for exploring Chicago’s rich skyline and architectural innovation. The visit here lasts about 10 minutes and includes free admission.

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Inside the Rookery Building: A Landmark of Chicago Architecture

Next, the group visits the Rookery Building, completed in 1888 and considered the oldest standing high-rise in Chicago. Inside, you’ll find yourself in the presence of Daniel Burnham and John Wellborn Root’s masterpiece, renowned for its elegant interior and exterior design. The building’s opulent details and historic significance make it a highlight of the tour, with a 15-minute visit that includes free entry.

Exploring the Art Deco Details at 135 South LaSalle

The Field Building, also known as the La Salle National Bank Building, is the next stop. Completed in 1934, this Chicago Art Deco landmark features distinctive east and west façades. Your guide explains how its geometrical shapes and decorative elements exemplify the Art Deco style. Visitors get a chance to view the building from the outside and learn about its architectural features during a 10-minute stop.

Marvel at the One North LaSalle Building

At 1 North LaSalle Street, the tour highlights the landmark building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Constructed in 1930, the structure stood as Chicago’s tallest building for 35 years and evokes the spirit of the Great Gatsby era. The visit lasts 15 minutes, providing insights into its design and historical significance, making it a perfect nod to the Jazz Age.

The Chicago Board of Trade: An Icon of Art Deco Style

The Chicago Board of Trade Building is the tour’s grand finale. This 45-story skyscraper exemplifies Art Deco styling and regal grandeur, completed during the height of the 1920s economic boom. As one of the best examples of Art Deco architecture in Chicago, it offers a visual feast of geometric details and luxurious design. The guided visit here lasts about 15 minutes and provides an opportunity to appreciate the building’s exterior features and historic importance.

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Chicago Architecture Center: A Gateway to the Windy City’s Design Marvels

The tour concludes at the Chicago Architecture Center located at 111 E Wacker Dr. This visit allows for a more comprehensive understanding of Chicago’s architectural landscape. Included in the tour fee, the center offers additional galleries and information about the city’s gorgeous buildings and their stories. It’s an ideal spot for photo enthusiasts and those wanting to continue exploring after the guided walk.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour starts at 30 North LaSalle Street, and finishes at the Chicago Board of Trade Building at 141 W Jackson Blvd. The small-group size—limited to 10 participants—ensures a personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for questions and photos. The tour involves walking through downtown, so moderate physical fitness is recommended, but no special equipment is necessary. Public transportation is nearby for easy access to the starting point.

Inside Access and Building Interior Views

While the tour offers inside views of some buildings, access to interiors may change due to weekend, holiday schedules, or unforeseen closures. Nevertheless, the Chicago Architecture Center provides additional interior exploration opportunities, enhancing the experience. The tour emphasizes exterior architecture and storytelling, making it a rich cultural experience even if interior access is limited at certain times.

Pricing, Cancellation, and Value

At $67, the tour includes all fees and taxes, a professional local guide, and admission to the galleries at the Chicago Architecture Center. The free cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for planning. The value lies in expert narration, inside access, and the chance to see multiple iconic buildings in a short time.

Who Should Take This Tour

This tour is ideal for architecture enthusiasts, history lovers, and fans of the Jazz Age. It’s well-suited for those comfortable with walking and interested in learning detailed stories about Chicago’s skyline and cultural history. The small group size makes it a good choice for intimate experiences and photo opportunities.

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History of the Jazz Age at Chicago Art Deco Architecture Tour

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What is the price?
$67 per person, including all fees and taxes.

Does the tour include interior visits?
Yes, the tour features inside views of selected buildings, though interior access can vary due to scheduling.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 30 North LaSalle Street and ends at the Chicago Board of Trade Building at 141 W Jackson Blvd.

Is the tour suitable for all physical levels?
Yes, but moderate walking is involved; travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Are there any age restrictions?
The information does not specify age limits, but adults and older children are recommended given the walking nature and historical focus.

Is transportation provided?
No, this is a walking tour, but the starting point is near public transportation.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 10 travelers to ensure a personalized experience.

This History of the Jazz Age at Chicago Art Deco Architecture Tour offers an engaging glimpse into Chicago’s 1920s architectural grandeur and historical ambiance. It combines expert storytelling, inside building views, and a focus on Art Deco design—perfect for anyone keen to explore the city’s urban beauty and cultural past with a small, friendly group.