Chicago City Tour: Elevated Architecture Tour with Train Ticket Included
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.
Options
Chicago City Tour: Elevated Architecture Tour with Train Ticket Included
What's included in Chicago City Tour: Elevated Architecture Tour with Train Ticket Included
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
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 "L" station
View Trump Tower.
Inclusions
- Fare to ride the Chicago Elevated Rail system
- Admission to the galleries of the Chicago Architecture Center.
- Narration by a professional and certified guide.
- Food or drink
- Storage for luggage or strollers
- Coat check
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- 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.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Chicago Architecture Center at 111 E Wacker Drive.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the departure time and present your ticket to the box office at the Chicago Architecture Center. You will receive a "Ventra" card which is necessary to access the Elevated Rail system.