Explore the Historic Old Post Office in Chicago

Exploring the Historic Old Post Office in Chicago: A Deep Dive

If you’re curious about how historic buildings find new life in a modern city, the tour of Chicago’s Old Post Office offers a compelling story wrapped in stunning architecture and innovative reuse. This 1.5-hour experience, guided by knowledgeable staff from the Chicago Architecture Center, allows visitors to walk through a landmark that has been transformed from a vacant relic into a vibrant, multi-use space.

What we really love about this tour is its ability to blend history, architecture, and urban renewal in a way that feels engaging and accessible. The detailed commentary from guides like Alice and Lorie makes the stories come alive, and the chance to see features like the “postcard wall” or the rooftop meadow adds a special touch.

A potential consideration is that the visit is confined to the interior and rooftop area, so those seeking a full city tour or extensive history may need additional experiences. Also, photography isn’t permitted inside, so if you’re eager to snap every detail, you’ll need to wait for outside views or take mental pictures.

This tour is ideal for architecture buffs, history enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see how historic buildings can be repurposed into modern marvels. It’s especially suited for visitors who appreciate in-depth storytelling and want an accessible, affordable introduction to Chicago’s architectural gems.

Key Points

• Affordable yet comprehensive: For $15, you get a detailed look at an iconic building with a passionate guide.
• Expert guides: Tour leaders like Alice are praised for their knowledge, engaging personality, and storytelling skills.
• Architectural highlights: See distinctive features like the “zig-zag wall”, “postcard wall”, and the rooftop meadow, each with its own story.
• Rich history with modern twists: The building’s adaptive reuse showcases how old structures can serve new purposes while retaining their original charm.
• Stunning views: The rooftop park offers a rare perspective of Chicago’s skyline, adding a visual reward at the end of the tour.
• Limited amenities: Note that food, drinks, and luggage storage aren’t included or available, so plan accordingly.

A Closer Look at the Old Post Office Tour in Chicago

The Building’s Background and Significance

Completed in 1934, the Old Post Office is a sprawling 2.8 million square-foot structure that once served as Chicago’s mail hub. Its early 20th-century design, characterized by grand interior spaces and detailed craftsmanship, made it an architectural icon. For nearly two decades, however, it sat vacant, risking losing its historic charm.

Thanks to a recent, extensive renovation, the building has been transformed into a vibrant space that functions as both offices and host to events, all while celebrating its architectural roots. The restoration was a collaborative effort involving visionary developers and an award-winning architectural team, ensuring the preservation of key features like the Main Lobby, zig-zag walls, and the rooftop meadow.

The Itinerary Breakdown and What You’ll See

The tour begins at W Van Buren Street, with a walk into the interior of this grand structure. Your guide will share insights into the building’s history and explain the importance of adaptive reuse, a process where old buildings are thoughtfully repurposed for modern needs.

The first stop is the Main Lobby, where you’ll marvel at the expansive space—think soaring ceilings, intricate woodwork, and impressive murals. Reviewers have spoken about the “magnificent” quality of the lobby, describing it as a place that must be seen in person to truly appreciate.

Next, you’ll explore the “Zig-zag wall” and the “postcard wall”, two distinctive features that reflect the building’s postal history. The “postcard wall” is a visual highlight, showcasing a timeline of postal stamps and historic images, giving visitors a tangible connection to Chicago’s mail legacy.

The tour also takes you to the roof, now a 3.5-acre rooftop park filled with greenery and designed as an urban meadow. This space offers breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline and a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. Several reviews highlight the rooftop as a “gorgeous place to learn about the building’s evolution and enjoy the city from above.”

Guides and Their Impact

Tour guides like Alice and Lorie receive high praise for their knowledge and engaging storytelling. A reviewer specifically mentions Alice sharing “so much about the origin and evolution of the building, architecture, and its adaptive reuse journey”, making the experience both educational and inspiring.

Another reviewer lauded Lorie’s “spectacular job”, noting her ability to make the history interesting and her attentiveness to guests’ questions. Their passion clearly enhances the experience, making it more memorable than a typical guided tour.

Price, Duration, and Practical Details

At just $15 per person, this tour provides excellent value, especially considering the depth of information and the chance to see behind the scenes of a major Chicago landmark. Most bookings are made about 30 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want to secure a spot.

The experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity that fits well into a day of sightseeing. The meeting point at the Old Post Office is accessible by public transportation, and the tour comfortably accommodates groups of up to 21 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

What’s Not Included

Visitors should note that the tour does not include food or drinks, and there is no luggage or stroller storage available. Photography inside the building isn’t permitted, so if you want to capture the details, plan to take photos from the outside or on the rooftop.

The Experience’s Strengths and Limitations

We loved the way the guides brought the building’s stories to life, making architectural details understandable and interesting. The “gorgeous” lobby and rooftop views are definite highlights, as is the tangible sense of Chicago’s postal history.

Some reviewers mention that the tour is “entertaining and informative”, with guides like Lorie and Alice providing “fabulous” insights. The restoration of the building is also highly praised, with many describing it as a “beautifully restored landmark” that now serves as a vibrant part of downtown Chicago.

However, since the tour is limited to the interior and rooftop spaces, those seeking a broader city tour or extensive history outside the building will need additional activities. Plus, the restriction on photography might disappoint some visitors eager to document their experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This guided tour of the Old Post Office offers a unique peek into Chicago’s architectural heritage and urban renewal efforts. It’s especially well-suited for architecture lovers and anyone interested in historic preservation, as well as visitors looking for an affordable yet enriching experience.

The guided commentary provides a layer of storytelling that makes the building’s features come alive, which is perfect for those who enjoy detailed narratives rather than just seeing landmarks. The rooftop meadow and skyline views also make it worthwhile for those who want a scenic break from city touring.

While not ideal for visitors seeking extensive outdoor excursions or a full-fledged city overview, this tour excels at showcasing one of Chicago’s architectural treasures with insight, charm, and a touch of modern innovation.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but it’s an active experience inside a building, so very young children or those with mobility issues might find some parts less accessible.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a concise yet detailed experience.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While not explicitly stated, the building’s current use as a modern office space suggests some accessibility, but it’s best to check with the Chicago Architecture Center directly for specific accommodations.

Are food and drinks available during the tour?
No, food and drink are not included, and there are no options available as part of the tour.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Photography inside the building isn’t permitted, so plan to enjoy the views and details without capturing images inside.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended since the tour involves walking through the interior and onto the rooftop.

How do I book the tour?
It’s best to book about 30 days in advance through the Chicago Architecture Center’s website or authorized booking platforms for guaranteed spots.

To sum it up, the Chicago Old Post Office tour is a well-priced, enriching experience that combines architecture, history, and modern reuse. It’s perfect for those eager to understand Chicago’s architectural evolution, with guides who bring stories to life. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique perspective on the city’s skyline, this tour delivers a meaningful glimpse into one of Chicago’s most iconic buildings.