Chicago: Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour Loop

Summary

Chicago’s Art Deco towers up close with stories and textures

You’ll walk through Chicago’s Loop with a local guide who brings Art Deco skyscrapers to life—from tracing geometric patterns at 30 N LaSalle to soaking up golden light in the Rookery lobby. Expect real stories, lively city sounds, and access to the Chicago Architecture Center galleries. It’s more than just looking up—it’s feeling part of it all.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the first thing I’d notice on this Chicago walking tour would be the way the stone felt under my hand—cool and a little gritty, just outside 30 N LaSalle. Our guide, Janet, was already pointing out some zigzag patterns above us that I’d probably walked past a dozen times before without seeing. There’s something about being in the middle of the Loop with someone who actually cares about these buildings—she even knew which lobby had the best brass elevator doors (spoiler: it’s not where you think).

The Rookery lobby was next. The light in there is different—sort of gold and soft, like honey in late afternoon. Janet told us how William Drummond worked on it, but honestly I was distracted by the echo of footsteps on marble and this faint smell of old paper and polish. At one point she asked if anyone could spot an Art Deco motif on the ceiling, and I blurted out “sunburst!” Maybe too loud. She grinned anyway.

We wandered past 135 S LaSalle and then paused at One LaSalle Street. The city noises kept breaking in—bus brakes squealing, someone yelling for coffee—but inside those lobbies it felt hushed, almost reverent. Our group started off kind of shy but loosened up after Janet told us about a time she got stuck in an elevator here (she laughs about it now). And then suddenly we were standing in front of the Chicago Board of Trade Building, all sharp lines and silver details catching what little sun there was that day. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m downtown.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Chicago Art Deco buildings

• View 30 N LaSalle St building
• Discover Rookery lobby design
• View 135 S LaSalle St building
• Discuss 1 N LaSalle St building
• Visit Chicago Board of Trade building
• Access Chicago Architecture Center galleries

Top questions

Is this Chicago Art Deco walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible, including transportation options nearby.

Does the tour include admission to any museums or galleries?

Yes, your ticket includes admission to the galleries at the Chicago Architecture Center.

How long is the walking distance for this tour?

The tour covers several blocks within downtown Chicago’s Loop; suitable for all fitness levels.

Are building interiors included on this tour?

You’ll visit select lobbies like the Rookery; interior access may vary due to closures or schedules.

Can infants or small children join the tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the walk.

Are pets allowed on this architecture tour?

No, pets are not permitted except for service animals.

What landmarks will we see during this walking tour?

You’ll see 30 N LaSalle St, Rookery Building, 135 S LaSalle St, One LaSalle St, and finish at the Chicago Board of Trade Building.

What’s included

Your day includes narration from a certified local guide as you walk through downtown Chicago’s Loop district, entry to select building interiors when available (like the Rookery lobby), plus admission to explore galleries at the Chicago Architecture Center after your tour wraps up.