The next time you’re visiting family or friends in Chicago, why not ask them to join you in discovering and learning more about what’s in their own backyard. Be amazed by the number of landmarks residents pass by each day.

The local experts, the Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF), offer 90 different tours ranging from Chicago neighborhoods like Bridgeport to suburbs like Highland Park, in addition to a varied selection of loop tours focusing on the downtown’s art deco-style structures and modern skyscrapers.

Besides walking, various forms of transportation are used to move participants - river cruise boats (spring to late fall before things start freeze), buses, bicycles and Segways™. Well-trained CAF docents, who provide a running commentary on the buildings, as well as the public art and communities they represent, lead all of the tours. These folks really know their subject matter, as they are required to complete a 10-week graduate level program before being assigned tours, Often the topic of the discussion is researched, developed and designed by a docent who has a love for a particular neighborhood and wants to share it with others.

Regular scheduled tours include the architecture river cruise, historic skyscrapers, (contrasted with the) modern skyscrapers, highlights by bus and Frank Lloyd Wright in Oak Park. Fees range from $5.00 for many neighborhood tours to $27.00 for the river cruise. Most tours are two hours in length and depart from the ArchiCenter in the Santa Fe Building (designed by Daniel Burnham), 224 South Michigan Avenue. For a full listing of tours, times, and departure locations, visit their website.

CAF was founded in 1966 to save the Glessner House at 1800 South Prairie Avenue in the South Loop and to arouse public interest in Chicago’s architecture and design. Consider becoming a CAF member, as one of the benefits is a reduced or free tour rate. Within a short period of time, it can easily pay for itself.

*Details subject to change.

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Chicago Architecture Foundation
ArchiCenter
Santa Fe Building
224 South Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60604

(312) 922-3432 ext. 240