What You Will Do
Experience the story of Chicago through its skyline on a walking tour that stretches from the city’s 19th-century roots to its most striking modern towers. From Beaux-Arts to modernist to Art Deco, this architecture tour has it all.
Start near beautiful Millennium Park to enjoy those lakefront views. Then follow your guide past architectural gems from the 1920s and landmarks like the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower, plus eye-catching storefronts including the world’s largest Starbucks and a Harry Potter-themed shop.
Step off Michigan Avenue to explore luxury spots like Cartier and St. Laurent before wrapping up at the former John Hancock Center. If you’ve selected the upgrade, you’ll head up 1,030 feet to 360 Chicago to be dazzled by panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the pinnacles of skyscrapers below your feet.
Come see what makes this mile truly magnificent!
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
Meet your guide in between the Federal Building Columns. Your guide will be wearing an orange hat that says ExperienceFirst
1
Millenium Park
20 minutes
Meet your guide at the Federal Building Columns and learn about the history of Chicago’s lakefront. Then get a glimpse of Italian Renaissance style at the Chicago Cultural Center nearby.
2
Chicago Riverwalk
20 minutes
Admire the beauty of the Beaux Arts and Art Deco movements on the water with three distinct Chicago buildings from the 1920s. You’ll also learn about the impact of the Chicago School of Architecture.
3
Magnificent Mile
50 minutes
Experience the Mag Mile in a unique way. Observe the world’s largest Starbucks, Burberry’s unique façade, and walk by the nation’s only Harry Potter themed store outside Orlando. See major architectural movements from Art Deco to late Modernist.
4
Chicago River
20 minutes
High end retail is never too far from commercial retail and you will experience storefronts of the elites like St. Laurent, the Esquire Theater, and Cartier.
5
360 Chicago Observation Deck
10 minutes
If you upgrade to add on the 360 Chicago observation deck, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Magnificent Mile, Lake Michigan, and more from 1,030 feet up. Your visit is self-guided, so feel free to stay as long as you like. If you wish, you can also upgrade your ticket on-site by adding the TILT thrill ride experience.
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