- Chicago Architecture Center - 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.
- Washington/Wabash - Washington/Wabash “L” station
- Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago - View Trump Tower.
- Marshall Field and Company Building - View the Marshall Field Building
- Harold Washington Library Center - View the Harold Washington Library and State/Van Burnen Station
- MCC Chicago, Federal Bureau of Prisons - View the Metropolitan Correction Center
- 343 S Dearborn St - View the Fisher Building.
- DePaul University - DePaul Center - View the DePaul Center.
- 175 W Jackson Blvd - View the Insurance Exchange Building
- Clinton - Clinton St/Lake St “L” Station
- Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower - View the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower
- 567 W Lake St - View the Chicago Transit Authority’s (CTA) headquarters.
- Chicago Board of Trade Building - View the Chicago Board of Trade Building
- 180 N Wabash Ave - View the LeMoyne Building
- Washington/Wabash - Washington/Wabash “L” Station
- Chicago Architecture Center - Return to Chicago Architecture Center
- Ride on the Chicago Elevated Rail
- Access to Chicago Architecture Center galleries
- Guided narration by a certified professional
- Food or drink
- Storage for luggage or strollers
- Coat check
Experience the awe-inspiring architecture of Chicago from the distinctive vantage point of its elevated rail and station platforms. Discover the history of the renowned ‘L’ system and its influence on the development of the Loop’s buildings. The inaugural elevated train, a significant emblem of Chicago, began its operation in 1892. Now, the ‘L’ offers unparalleled views of the downtown area. Its elevation of over 20 feet provides an opportunity to observe architectural nuances that often go unnoticed by sidewalk pedestrians. This is our most extensive tour in the Loop, encompassing hundreds of buildings and spotlighting those of architectural interest. As a certified nonprofit organization, your CAC ticket purchases directly fund our educational initiatives and community outreach programs.
- Only about 15 minutes of this two-hour tour is on a train, while most of the remaining tour takes place outdoors standing on the station platforms.
- Pets are not allowed.
- The itinerary of this tour is subject to change without notice.
- Seating at stations and on the train is not guaranteed.
- This tour is not ADA accessible. Stairs are required.
- Not recommended for travelers with difficulty walking or standing.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.