Chicago Art Deco Madness Walking Tour

Chicago Art Deco Madness Walking Tour: An In-Depth Look

If you’re a fan of architecture—or even just curious about Chicago’s iconic skyline—you’ll find the Chicago Art Deco Madness Walking Tour offers a compelling glimpse into the city’s glamorous 1920s boom. This tour promises to reveal seven of the best-preserved Art Deco buildings, mixed with some notable sculptures and historic tidbits, all packed into an approximately two-hour walk. It’s a chance to see Chicago’s architectural jewels up close, guided by someone who knows their stuff—an interior designer and historic architecture expert named Ronnie, who clearly loves sharing his passion.

What we love about this tour is how it seamlessly combines visual beauty with informative storytelling. The buildings are stunning, and Ronnie’s insights make each detail come alive—whether it’s a decorative relief or the story behind a building’s design. Plus, the small-group format ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and conversation. A potential drawback? Given the outdoor nature and modest duration, it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility and a genuine interest in architecture. This tour best suits travelers who want a deeper understanding of Chicago’s historic architecture without committing to a full-day or large-group activity.

Key Points

• Focuses on approximately seven iconic Art Deco buildings in Chicago’s Loop
• Led by an expert guide who is an interior designer and architecture enthusiast
• Small group (maximum of 10) for personalized attention
• Duration of just under 2 hours offers a concentrated, immersive experience
• Free to explore detailed architectural features and sculptures
• Great value at $45, especially considering the insider knowledge shared

The Tour’s Core Experience: A Walk Through Chicago’s Architectural Past

This walking tour begins at the Wintrust Mortgage office, located at 231 S LaSalle St, a convenient starting point near public transit. From there, you’ll set out on a roughly 1 hour 45-minute journey through the heart of Chicago’s Financial District and parts of North Michigan Avenue.

The First Stop: Chicago Board Of Trade Building

The tour kicks off at one of Chicago’s most striking landmarks—the Chicago Board of Trade Building. Ronnie points out its Art Deco architectural details both outside and within the lobby, which is open when accessible. Travelers often find the interior as impressive as the exterior, with its intricate design and historic significance. An enraptured review calls it “beautiful and cool,” with the architecture and behind-the-scenes stories making it even more memorable. The building’s bold red sculpture, seen from a distance, also makes for a great photo op.

The Lasalle Street Lineup

Next, the group moves to 135 South LaSalle Street and One North LaSalle Street, two buildings that showcase classic Art Deco features in their exteriors and interiors (when open). These stops give a good sense of the decorative motifs and geometric patterns characteristic of the era, with Ronnie explaining the symbolism and craftsmanship behind each element.

135 South LaSalle features an interior arcade, which may be accessible depending on the day, offering a glimpse of how Art Deco’s luxurious style extended indoors. Similarly, One North LaSalle allows a close look at exterior details, helping visitors appreciate the craftsmanship in the building’s ornamentation.

The Historic and Artistic Highlights

Moving along, the tour stops at 33 N LaSalle Street for exterior details, highlighting how the Art Deco style was embraced in Chicago’s commercial architecture. Then, the tour visits the First United Methodist Church of Chicago, the tallest church in America. Here, visitors see gothic architectural details on the outside, with Ronnie sharing stories about its interior—though access might be limited, the exterior is enough to impress.

The inclusion of notable sculptures like Miro’s Chicago and The Picasso outdoor sculptures offers a refreshing artistic contrast to the buildings, demonstrating that Chicago’s public art scene is intertwined with its architectural history.

Inside the Department Store: Macy’s on State Street

The tour’s highlight for many is the interior of Macy’s (the former Marshall Field’s). Here, visitors can observe Art Deco motifs embedded into the building’s design, along with the famous Tiffany Glass atrium—a stunning example of decorative arts. The meeting clock—a hefty, bronze, 7-ton timepiece—has been a Chicago tradition for decades, and it’s fun to learn its history.

The Carbide and Carbon Building

Finally, the tour concludes at the Carbide and Carbon Building, a green terra cotta marvel. Ronnie explains the building’s Art Deco details on the exterior and interior lobby, emphasizing its significance as one of Chicago’s most iconic skyscrapers from the era.

What’s the Experience Like?

The beauty of this tour is how it balances visual grandeur with detailed storytelling. You’ll find yourself gazing up at buildings, noticing the intricate geometric reliefs, decorative motifs, and historic sculptures that you might otherwise overlook. Ronnie’s background as an interior designer shines through, as he points out craftsmanship and design features with both enthusiasm and clarity.

Most reviews rave about Ronnie’s deep knowledge and friendly attitude. One reviewer states, “Ronnie was very knowledgeable and very personable! My friends and I enjoyed the tour, especially the Chicago Board of Trade building.” Others mention that Ronnie keeps his groups intentionally small, which makes it easier to ask questions and really absorb the details.

Tour’s Practical Details

The price is $45 per person, which includes a guided walk through some of Chicago’s most beautiful architecture—considering the level of expertise and exclusive access to buildings (where available), it’s excellent value. Since the tour is about 1 hour 45 minutes, it’s perfect for travelers looking for a manageable, engaging experience without the fatigue of a longer tour.

The group size is capped at 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention, which many reviews note as a definite plus. You’ll be walking outdoors, so moderate physical fitness is needed, but the pace is relaxed enough to enjoy the surroundings comfortably.

The starting point at 231 S LaSalle St is accessible via public transit, and the tour ends at 68 E Wacker Pl, conveniently located near other attractions, restaurants, and transportation options.

Why Choose This Tour?

If you’re an architecture buff or someone curious about Chicago’s historic buildings, this tour offers a targeted look at one of the city’s most dazzling styles—Art Deco. You’ll love the way Ronnie’s storytelling makes the buildings come alive, connecting design details to broader historical and cultural themes. The small-group setting ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd, but part of an intimate exploration that feels both educational and fun.

However, if you’re more interested in interior visits or in-depth history, you might find this tour a bit short or surface-level. Still, for an overview that emphasizes visual beauty and expert commentary, it hits the sweet spot.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate architecture, art, and history, but also want a manageable, focused outing. It’s perfect for those who value personalized attention and enjoy discovering architectural details that add charm and character to Chicago’s skyline. It suits moderate walkers comfortable with outdoor exploration and strolling through downtown Chicago.

In summary, if you want a fun, engaging, and visually stunning tour led by a knowledgeable guide, the Chicago Art Deco Madness Walking Tour delivers on all fronts—offering a detailed, approachable look at some of Chicago’s most remarkable buildings.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The walk lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, making it a manageable activity that still covers a good range of buildings and highlights.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, which allows for more personalized interaction with the guide.

Is the tour suitable for all physical levels?
While it involves some walking outdoors, the pace is moderate, suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness. You should be comfortable walking for about two hours.

Are the interiors of the buildings accessible?
Some buildings allow interior visits or views of lobbies when open, but access can vary. The guide will highlight architectural details visible from outside.

What is included in the price?
The $45 fee covers the guided walk, expert commentary, and access to external architecture features. Entry to interior spaces depends on their open status.

Can I join the tour if I have a service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed, making the tour accessible for visitors with disabilities.

Final Thoughts

The Chicago Art Deco Madness Walking Tour offers a well-rounded, visually rewarding experience for anyone interested in Chicago’s architectural gems. Led by an enthusiastic expert, it transforms the city’s buildings from mere structures into stories of design, culture, and history. The small-group format ensures a friendly, engaging atmosphere, making it a highlight for architecture lovers and curious travelers alike.

This tour is especially valuable for those who want a focused, insider’s look at Chicago’s Art Deco masterpieces without the fuss of larger, more commercialized excursions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover your city’s beauty, this tour provides a fresh perspective on Chicago’s skyline and its splendid 1920s design.

If you’re eager to see some of Chicago’s most iconic buildings and learn what makes them special, this tour is a smart choice—an authentic, expertly-guided walk that’s both fun and educational.