What You Will Do
Explore Chicago’s amazing architecture from the unique perspective of elevated trains and station platforms. Learn the history behind the famous "L" system and hear how it has shaped the development of buildings within the Loop.
The city's first elevated train started making trips in 1892. Now considered one of Chicago’s most defining features, the "L" offers incredible views of downtown. By being more than 20 feet off the ground, you'll see architectural details that are missed by most pedestrians at street level. This is our most comprehensive tour in the Loop, passing hundreds of buildings and highlighting ones of architectural significance. As a certified nonprofit, all CAC ticket purchases directly support our education efforts and community engagement projects.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
Chicago Architecture Center at 111 E Wacker Drive.
1
Chicago Architecture Center
10 minutes
Begin the tour at the Chicago Architecture Center. Fare to ride the Chicago Elevated Rail system is included. Please request a "Ventra" card from the Chicago Architecture Box Office when checking in for the tour.
2
Washington/Wabash
10 minutes
Washington/Wabash "L" station
3
Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago
5 minutes
View Trump Tower.
4
Marshall Field and Company Building
5 minutes
View the Marshall Field Building
5
Harold Washington Library Center
15 minutes
View the Harold Washington Library and State/Van Burnen Station
6
MCC Chicago, Federal Bureau of Prisons
5 minutes
View the Metropolitan Correction Center
7
343 S Dearborn St
5 minutes
View the Fisher Building.
8
DePaul University - DePaul Center
5 minutes
View the DePaul Center.
9
5 minutes
View the Insurance Exchange Building
10
Clinton
15 minutes
Clinton St/Lake St "L" Station
11
5 minutes
View the Chicago Transit Authority's (CTA) headquarters.
12
Chicago Board of Trade Building
5 minutes
View the Chicago Board of Trade Building
13
180 N Wabash Ave
5 minutes
View the LeMoyne Building
14
Washington/Wabash
15 minutes
Washington/Wabash "L" Station
15
Chicago Architecture Center
5 minutes
Return to Chicago Architecture Center
Show 14 more stops