About this experience
Trace a century of daring architectural gambles in Chicago's Loop. From six-foot brick walls to soaring glass curtain walls, discover how engineers conquered swamp soil, roaring fires, and howling winds to invent the modern skyscraper.
- A 1.6 km self-guided tour with 8 stops over 96 min
- Ideal for travelers interested in Urbanism, Infrastructure & Innovation and Art, Design & Aesthetics
- Immersively told in a podcast style by experts and locals
- Matching audio content, AI guide and navigation through the app
At a glance
- Duration: 1 hr 36 min
What is included
- Verified facts woven into an engaging story
- Interactive in-app guide for questions about the story and surroundings
- Precise navigation between the stops
- Immersive podcast-style audio featuring experts and locals
Itinerary and highlights
The world's oldest surviving building using a pure skeletal structure throughout, supporting both internal floors and external walls.
Represents the absolute limit of load-bearing masonry technology, featuring six-foot-thick base walls.
An early masterpiece of steel frame construction and terra cotta cladding, allowing for huge expanses of glass and gothic details.
Showcases pioneering grillage foundation technique and Frank Lloyd Wright's interior light court redesign.
Features the tripartite façade division and iconic three-part Chicago Window design by Holabird & Roche.
A mid-20th century landmark moving structural columns to the exterior perimeter for clear-span floor plates.
Louis Sullivan's masterwork expressing his 'form follows function' ethos with intricate cast-iron ornament.
The direct predecessor to modern glass curtain-wall skyscrapers, featuring a steel frame and glazed white terra cotta.
Meeting and pickup information
- Meet outside the Manhattan Building at 431 S Dearborn Street. Please wait near the main entrance without blocking access. Check your route and local transit connections on the day of travel.
Languages and tickets
- German — Audio
- English — Audio
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Red Thread
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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