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.
Inclusions & Exclusions
✔ 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
Departure & Return
Departure:
,
Chicago Architecture Center at 111 E Wacker Drive.
Return: End right where it started.
Itinerary
1
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.
Duration: 10 minutes
2
Washington/Wabash "L" station
Duration: 10 minutes
3
View Trump Tower.
Duration: 5 minutes
4
View the Marshall Field Building
Duration: 5 minutes
5
Harold Washington Library Center
View the Harold Washington Library and State/Van Burnen Station
Duration: 15 minutes
6
View the Metropolitan Correction Center
Duration: 5 minutes
7
View the Fisher Building.
Duration: 5 minutes
8
View the DePaul Center.
Duration: 5 minutes
9
View the Insurance Exchange Building
Duration: 5 minutes
10
Clinton St/Lake St "L" Station
Duration: 15 minutes
11
View the Chicago Transit Authority's (CTA) headquarters.
Duration: 5 minutes
12
Chicago Board of Trade Building
View the Chicago Board of Trade Building
Duration: 5 minutes
13
View the LeMoyne Building
Duration: 5 minutes
14
Washington/Wabash "L" Station
Duration: 15 minutes
15
Return to Chicago Architecture Center
Duration: 5 minutes
Additional info
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Only about 15 minutes of this two-hour tour is on a train, while most of the remaining tour takes place outdoors standing on the station platforms.
• Pets are not allowed.
• The itinerary of this tour is subject to change without notice.
• Seating at stations and on the train is not guaranteed.
• This tour is not ADA accessible. Stairs are required.
• Not recommended for travelers with difficulty walking or standing.
