Overview
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.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
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
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Chicago Architecture Center at 111 E Wacker Drive.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
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.
What to expect
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Chicago Architecture Center
10 min
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.
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Washington/Wabash
10 min
Washington/Wabash "L" station
-
Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago
5 min
View Trump Tower.
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Marshall Field and Company Building
5 min
View the Marshall Field Building
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Harold Washington Library Center
15 min
View the Harold Washington Library and State/Van Burnen Station
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MCC Chicago, Federal Bureau of Prisons
5 min
View the Metropolitan Correction Center
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343 S Dearborn St
5 min
View the Fisher Building.
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DePaul University - DePaul Center
5 min
View the DePaul Center.
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175 W Jackson Blvd
5 min
View the Insurance Exchange Building
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Clinton
15 min
Clinton St/Lake St "L" Station
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567 W Lake St
5 min
View the Chicago Transit Authority's (CTA) headquarters.
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Chicago Board Of Trade Building
5 min
View the Chicago Board of Trade Building
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180 N Wabash Ave
5 min
View the LeMoyne Building
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Washington/Wabash
15 min
Washington/Wabash "L" Station
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Chicago Architecture Center
5 min
Return to Chicago Architecture Center
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Chicago).
Additional Information
- Not recommended for travelers with difficulty walking or standing.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
FAQs about Chicago City Tour: Elevated Architecture Tour with Train Ticket Included
Can I cancel Chicago City Tour: Elevated Architecture Tour with Train Ticket Included for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 2 hours.
Where does it start?
Chicago Architecture Center at 111 E Wacker Drive.
What's included?
- Fare to ride the Chicago Elevated Rail system
- Admission to the galleries of the Chicago Architecture Center.
- Narration by a professional and certified guide.
What's not included?
- Food or drink
- Storage for luggage or strollers
- Coat check
Which places does it visit?
It visits Chicago Architecture Center, Washington/Wabash, Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago, Marshall Field and Company Building, Harold Washington Library Center, MCC Chicago, Federal Bureau of Prisons, DePaul University - DePaul Center, Clinton.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Operated by Chicago Architecture Center
