Chicago Architecture Foundation Shop

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girlaudio

Joined 7 years ago

Worth very penny. I will do it again!. I took the highlights bus tour that went through downtown and through the neighborhoods of Chicago. It was 3.5 hours and $40. I can't wait to do it again. As a person who has been to Chicago a few times and didn't want to do anything too much like a tourist...I tried this out and was so happy I did. We were able to go into buildings downtown and then we were able to take a tour of the Robie house not to mention getting to see about 30 miles of Chicago. If you can this is a MUST SEE!

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Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

Dozens of available tours cover every nook and cranny of the city.. Overview
Started in the 1960s by a collective of preservationists and architects fighting to protect a historic residence (H.H. Richardson's Glessner House), the Chicago Architecture Foundation now offers architecture exhibits, lectures and programs for all ages.

Facts
A tagline of the organization is, "The city is our museum," and more than 75 tours--by bus, foot, boat or bike--are available. A favorite is the Architecture River Cruise, in which patrons hop aboard Chicago's First Lady and learn about more than 50 places of interest, such as the Tribune Tower, Marina City and Merchandise Mart. Another popular tour is a bus ride to Oak Park to see some of Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpieces up close. There are also Chicago neighborhood tours and cemetery tours, along with bicycle tours of the city's lakefront, Lake Forest and Winnetka. Tickets for most outings can be purchased minutes before tours begin, but advance purchase is recommended.

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robyngalbos_citysearch

Joined 11 years ago

Must-do. The architectural boat tour is one of the best ways to see the city, whether you're new in the area, visiting for a couple days or a longtime resident. The cruise on the river is pretty slow and easy, making it a relaxing way to spend an hour and a half. The docents are knowledgeable and entertaining. If you have a wait before your tour starts, wander down to Cyrano's on the riverwalk for a relaxing alfresco lunch and a glass of wine.

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c_powell

Joined 11 years ago

Simply the best.... way for tourists and people who live here to explore our city. The tours run about 360 days a year, and range from one hour tours of particular downtown buildings to all day bus events.

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pampoin

Joined 11 years ago

"City-fied". Great place to take vistors to the city! Lots of interesting artifacts and information about Chicago past and present. I took the boat tour which was fabulous! Great for all ages - informative and fun too! Tour guides point out historical landmarks as well as information on more recently constructed buildings along the riverfront. Good way to get a tan too!

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Natalie

Joined 11 years ago

Frank Lloyd Wright. I have been on the Frank Lloyd Wright tour and I really enjoyed it. The tour guides were informative and the house is amazing. I highly recommend that locals and visitors alike make a trip out to Oak Park to see this.