Best of Chicago Walking Tour

The Best of Chicago Walking Tour is a perfect way to explore Chicago and see the best the city offers. Your journey begins when your local guide greets all the guests at Willis Tower, then he takes you on a high-speed elevator ride in the Willis Tower to go to the Skydeck at 103th floor. You will step in the glass cabin extending from the building's edge called The Ledge from where the city opens up beneath you offering a panoramic view spanning across four states (Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan) on a clear day. It's a thrilling yet serene moment when you are looking over the city.

Next, you will come back down on the ground and your tour continues as you walk past the Rookery Building which is one of Chicago’s architectural treasures. The lobby of the Rookery Building was redesigned by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1905 to a historic and timeless look with intricate ironwork, natural light, and geometric patterns.

After the Rookery Building, you will see the Marquette Building. It is known for its detailed terra cotta façade and mosaic panels. This building honors early Chicago pioneers and captures a sense of pride in the city.

Next, you will arrive at the Palmer House and step into a space rich with heritage. Palmer House was opened in the 19th century and was rebuilt after the Great Chicago Fire. Today, with its ornate ceilings and opulent interiors, it is one of the city's most elegant hotels.

Next is the Sullivan Center. It used to be a department store but now it is repurposed as retail and office space. It has large display windows and cast-iron detailing that serve as a reminder of the city’s golden age of commerce and the vision of architect Louis Sullivan, who is often credited with laying the groundwork for modern skyscrapers.

At Millennium Park, you will see The Cloud Gate, often called “The Bean.” Nearby, the Crown Fountain adds a playful, interactive element to the space. It's a perfect place to take a break for a while.

Next, you will cross the DuSable Bridge. The bridge offers a vintage point from where you can appreciate the city’s layers of development and its relationship with water.

The walking tour Chicago ends with the Shoreline Architecture Cruise. Onboard, you will enjoy the ride as you drift past more than 40 buildings. With narration from expert guides, this peaceful cruise provides perspective—not just of the skyline, but of the ideas and ambition behind it.