Architecture tours in the Loop

Chicago's skyline explained

Noteworthy for: The Loop offers some of the most groundbreaking architecture in the world.
Word to the wise: The Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF) also runs educational lectures and discussions – check their website for details.

If an architectural trend hit the world over the past 150 years, there's a strong chance it began on the small patch of land that makes up Chicago's Loop. With a textbook collection of influential, often beautiful buildings, the area hosts everything from the Water Tower, the oldest building to survive the Great Fire of 1871, through pioneering early 20th century skyscrapers, up to modern giants like the Willis and Trump Towers.
Many independent travelers are understandably reluctant to traipse around after guides, but tours organized by the respected CAF are impressive. Staffed by local volunteers who want to share their passion for the city, they can be an interesting, manageable way to get to grips with the city's architectural variety.

A popular choice is the Architecture River Cruise, where knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides explain the different schools of architecture, pick out important buildings and tell stories about their designers.