The Magnificent Mile Walking Tour (Self Guided), Chicago
The stretch of Michigan Avenue from the Chicago River to Lake Shore Drive, otherwise known as the Magnificent Mile, is regarded as one of the world’s great avenues – or Chicago’s version of Fifth Avenue. Take this self-guided walk to explore its whole stretch and surrounding area, featuring a wide selection of amazing stores/malls, world-known museums, restaurants and spectacular architecture.
Begin at Michigan Avenue Bridge by taking the bridge steps up to the street and looking across the river to see the Wrigley Building. The tower is best admired from outside, where you can take in the French Renaissance-style architecture and magnificent clock tower.
Afterwards, admire the giant Abraham Lincoln statue at the nearby Tribune Tower’s entrance, and look closely at the relief pieces on the lower level. Many rocks and materials from famous buildings around the world have been laid into the brick.
For a fun throwback blast from the past, visit the Original Billy Goat Tavern – so fun that it’s below street level! Beer is in cold frosty glasses, burgers hits the spot, and you’ll love the old-school diner vibe.
Walking further along the Magnificent Mile means passing alongside several other iconic buildings such as the super stylish and historic InterContinental Hotel, the second-oldest water tower in the U.S. (built in 1869), and the John Hancock Center with its popular ‘360 Chicago’ experience.
Don’t miss the three main department stores (900 North Michigan Shops, Water Tower Place, and the shops at Westfield North Bridge), as well as the many cultural diversions along the way, topped by the scenic Oak Street Beach at the end of the route.
For an excellent day out on and around the Magnificent Mile, follow our self-guided walking tour!
Begin at Michigan Avenue Bridge by taking the bridge steps up to the street and looking across the river to see the Wrigley Building. The tower is best admired from outside, where you can take in the French Renaissance-style architecture and magnificent clock tower.
Afterwards, admire the giant Abraham Lincoln statue at the nearby Tribune Tower’s entrance, and look closely at the relief pieces on the lower level. Many rocks and materials from famous buildings around the world have been laid into the brick.
For a fun throwback blast from the past, visit the Original Billy Goat Tavern – so fun that it’s below street level! Beer is in cold frosty glasses, burgers hits the spot, and you’ll love the old-school diner vibe.
Walking further along the Magnificent Mile means passing alongside several other iconic buildings such as the super stylish and historic InterContinental Hotel, the second-oldest water tower in the U.S. (built in 1869), and the John Hancock Center with its popular ‘360 Chicago’ experience.
Don’t miss the three main department stores (900 North Michigan Shops, Water Tower Place, and the shops at Westfield North Bridge), as well as the many cultural diversions along the way, topped by the scenic Oak Street Beach at the end of the route.
For an excellent day out on and around the Magnificent Mile, follow our self-guided walking tour!
How it works: Download the app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from iTunes App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Download The GPSmyCity App
The Magnificent Mile Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: The Magnificent Mile Walking Tour
Guide Location: USA » Chicago (See other walking tours in Chicago)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 18
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles
Author: doris
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » Chicago (See other walking tours in Chicago)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 18
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles
Author: doris
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- DuSable Bridge
- Wrigley Building
- Tribune Tower
- The Original Billy Goat Tavern
- Westfield North Bridge
- InterContinental Chicago Hotel
- Garrett Popcorn
- Bloomingdale's Medinah Home
- Saint James Cathedral
- Holy Name Cathedral
- Chicago Water Tower
- Museum of Contemporary Art
- John Hancock Center / 360 Chicago Observation Deck
- 900 North Michigan Shops
- Palmolive Building
- Drake Hotel
- Oak Street
- Oak Street Beach
1) DuSable Bridge
Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable, commonly regarded as the "Father of Chicago," was thought to be a native of the French colony Saint Dominique in the Caribbean. He is credited with being the first settler in the area of Chicago. His name is on schools, a museum, a park, and the DuSable Bridge spanning the Chicago River.
The bascule-style bridge was erected in 1928. It was part of a plan to link the south and north side parks of Chicago with Grand Boulevard. On the north, it connects with the 1780s homestead site of Jean Baptiste du Sable. The south side ends at the early 19th-century location of Fort Dearborn.
Also called the Michigan Avenue Bridge, the DuSable Bridge is a double-leaf, double deck, fixed counterweight, trunnion bascule bridge. It has a roadway on both levels. Edward H. Bennett was the consulting architect of the project, and William A. Mulcahy was the chief engineer.
Sculptures in the bridge tender houses by artist Henry Hering depict Discoverers, Pioneers, the 1812 Battle of Fort Dearborn, and Regeneration after the Great Fire of Chicago. The bridge also has 28 flagpoles for flags of the United States, Illinois, and Chicago and other banners as needed.
The bascule-style bridge was erected in 1928. It was part of a plan to link the south and north side parks of Chicago with Grand Boulevard. On the north, it connects with the 1780s homestead site of Jean Baptiste du Sable. The south side ends at the early 19th-century location of Fort Dearborn.
Also called the Michigan Avenue Bridge, the DuSable Bridge is a double-leaf, double deck, fixed counterweight, trunnion bascule bridge. It has a roadway on both levels. Edward H. Bennett was the consulting architect of the project, and William A. Mulcahy was the chief engineer.
Sculptures in the bridge tender houses by artist Henry Hering depict Discoverers, Pioneers, the 1812 Battle of Fort Dearborn, and Regeneration after the Great Fire of Chicago. The bridge also has 28 flagpoles for flags of the United States, Illinois, and Chicago and other banners as needed.
2) Wrigley Building
In 1920 there was not much worth seeing north of the Chicago River. The Michigan Avenue Bridge, spanning the river south of the current Wrigley site, was still under construction. Michigan Avenue was simply Pine Street, crossing through a raggedy industrial area known for soap and cheese manufacturing.
William Wrigley Jr., chewing gum magnate, inspired by what he had seen of the "White City" in the Columbian Exhibition of Chicago in 1893, bought a lot north of the river to build his "Juicy Fruit" palace. The lot had an odd trapezoidal shape, affecting the shape of The Wrigley Building today.
The building's elegant Beaux-Arts, Neo-Classic design is the work of architectural firm Graham, Anderson, Probst & White. The building, adorned with French Renaissance details, was inspired by the shape of the Giralda Tower of Seville Cathedral in Spain.
The 425-foot, 30 stories high, south tower (with clock) was completed in September 1921. The 21-story north tower followed in May, 1924. Covered walkways connect the towers at ground level, third floor and 14th floor.
The facade is finished with glazed terra-cotta, making the edifice gleaming and white, especially when lighted at night. Six different shades of terra-cotta are used, so that the building appears brighter as it rises. The gleaming white towers have been called "A Tribute to the Power of Human Jaws." Free Wrigley gum is still offered to visitors.
Opening Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8 am-6 pm; Saturday: 8 am-12 pm.
William Wrigley Jr., chewing gum magnate, inspired by what he had seen of the "White City" in the Columbian Exhibition of Chicago in 1893, bought a lot north of the river to build his "Juicy Fruit" palace. The lot had an odd trapezoidal shape, affecting the shape of The Wrigley Building today.
The building's elegant Beaux-Arts, Neo-Classic design is the work of architectural firm Graham, Anderson, Probst & White. The building, adorned with French Renaissance details, was inspired by the shape of the Giralda Tower of Seville Cathedral in Spain.
The 425-foot, 30 stories high, south tower (with clock) was completed in September 1921. The 21-story north tower followed in May, 1924. Covered walkways connect the towers at ground level, third floor and 14th floor.
The facade is finished with glazed terra-cotta, making the edifice gleaming and white, especially when lighted at night. Six different shades of terra-cotta are used, so that the building appears brighter as it rises. The gleaming white towers have been called "A Tribute to the Power of Human Jaws." Free Wrigley gum is still offered to visitors.
Opening Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8 am-6 pm; Saturday: 8 am-12 pm.
3) Tribune Tower
In 1922 the Chicago Tribune announced an interior and exterior design competition for its new home office building. The new headquarters would mark the 75th anniversary of the Tribune. There was $100,000 in prize money available for "the most beautiful and distinctive office building in the world." Two hundred sixty entries were submitted.
"And the winner was"...the Neo-Gothic design received from New York architects John Mead Howells and Raymond Hood, featuring unique buttresses at the top. Second place was awarded to Finnish architect Eliel Saarinen. Saarinen's Modernist design exerted a strong influence on subsequent architectural projects in Chicago.
The Neo-Gothic "American Perpendicular Style" of architecture design was all the rage in Chicago. Completed in 1925, the tower was 462 feet above street level. The buttresses at the peak of the tower really stand out at night, when the tower is lit. The top is inspired by the Tour de Beurre ("butter tower") of Rouen Cathedral in Paris.
The Gargoyles (mythical creatures) and Aesops' Screen facade over the main entrance are the work of sculptor Rene Paul Chambelin. A frog among the gargoyles is also Rene's work. He jokingly wanted to show that the artist was French. Various stones and bricks from sites around the world are incorporated in the lower levels of the building.
"And the winner was"...the Neo-Gothic design received from New York architects John Mead Howells and Raymond Hood, featuring unique buttresses at the top. Second place was awarded to Finnish architect Eliel Saarinen. Saarinen's Modernist design exerted a strong influence on subsequent architectural projects in Chicago.
The Neo-Gothic "American Perpendicular Style" of architecture design was all the rage in Chicago. Completed in 1925, the tower was 462 feet above street level. The buttresses at the peak of the tower really stand out at night, when the tower is lit. The top is inspired by the Tour de Beurre ("butter tower") of Rouen Cathedral in Paris.
The Gargoyles (mythical creatures) and Aesops' Screen facade over the main entrance are the work of sculptor Rene Paul Chambelin. A frog among the gargoyles is also Rene's work. He jokingly wanted to show that the artist was French. Various stones and bricks from sites around the world are incorporated in the lower levels of the building.
4) The Original Billy Goat Tavern
The Billy Goat Tavern was founded by Billy Sianis in 1934. Billy, a Greek immigrant, bought the old Lincoln Tavern by Chicago Stadium with a check for $205 that bounced. The check eventually made good and the tavern at 1855 W. Madison Street prospered. The Goat reproduced. There are now eight Billy Goat locations, seven in the city.
Located close to the offices of the Chicago Tribune and the Sun-Times, the tavern was a hangout and watering hole for the newspaper gang. Sianis's fine establishment was frequently mentioned in newspaper columns, especially those of popular reporter Mike Royko.
The tavern is also famous for the notorious "Curse of the Billy Goat" levied against the Chicago Cubs. This is the way of it. Billy, an ardent Cubs fan, brought his pet goat, the Tavern mascot, to Game 4 of the 1945 World Series. The Series featured the Cubs against the Tigers at Wrigley Field.
Cubs' owner, Philip K. Wrigley, ejected Sianis and his goat. Wrigley said the goat stank. Sianis retaliated with a curse on the Cubs. Never again, went the curse, will there be a series game at Wrigley Field. The curse held until 2016.
The Billy Goat Tavern is famous for its cheeseburgers and Pepsi. Comedian John Belushi built his Saturday Night Live sketch, "Olympia Cafe" on events and characters at the Billy Goat. "Cheezborger, Cheezborger, Cheezborger. No Coke, Pepsi." Belushi and Bill Murray were regulars at Sianis's Billy Goat Tavern.
Opening Hours:
[Kitchen] Mon-Thu: 6am–1am; Fri: 6am–2am; Sat: 6am–3am; Sun: 9am–2am
[Bar] Mon-Thu: 7am–1am; Fri: 7am–2am; Sat: 7am–3am; Sun: 10am–2am
Located close to the offices of the Chicago Tribune and the Sun-Times, the tavern was a hangout and watering hole for the newspaper gang. Sianis's fine establishment was frequently mentioned in newspaper columns, especially those of popular reporter Mike Royko.
The tavern is also famous for the notorious "Curse of the Billy Goat" levied against the Chicago Cubs. This is the way of it. Billy, an ardent Cubs fan, brought his pet goat, the Tavern mascot, to Game 4 of the 1945 World Series. The Series featured the Cubs against the Tigers at Wrigley Field.
Cubs' owner, Philip K. Wrigley, ejected Sianis and his goat. Wrigley said the goat stank. Sianis retaliated with a curse on the Cubs. Never again, went the curse, will there be a series game at Wrigley Field. The curse held until 2016.
The Billy Goat Tavern is famous for its cheeseburgers and Pepsi. Comedian John Belushi built his Saturday Night Live sketch, "Olympia Cafe" on events and characters at the Billy Goat. "Cheezborger, Cheezborger, Cheezborger. No Coke, Pepsi." Belushi and Bill Murray were regulars at Sianis's Billy Goat Tavern.
Opening Hours:
[Kitchen] Mon-Thu: 6am–1am; Fri: 6am–2am; Sat: 6am–3am; Sun: 9am–2am
[Bar] Mon-Thu: 7am–1am; Fri: 7am–2am; Sat: 7am–3am; Sun: 10am–2am
5) Westfield North Bridge
The Shops at North Bridge is the new name for the high-end shopping complex formerly known as Westfield North Bridge. The sprawling urban retail and entertainment zone is officially located at 520 North Michigan Avenue. The North Bridge anchor store is Nordstroms, a full-line retailer competing with stores like Macy's and Neiman Marcus.
North Bridge includes five hotels, three parking garages and two office buildings. The Macerich Company acquired the complex from Westfield in 2008. Macerich is known to acquire high-end shopping malls. Nordstrom occupies the first four floors of the building, covering one block on the corner of N. Rush Street and E. Grand Avenue.
The main entrance is through an 80-foot high atrium on Michigan Avenue. The architects for the mall project are Anthony Belluschi Associates, and Callison for the Nordstrom building. North Bridge's oldest edifice is the American Medical Association building on State Street, designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange.
Besides the four-level shopping center with 50 world-class retailers, there are 20 or so plush restaurants and lively diners at North Bridge. This is a large venue, but there is a concierge desk at the main entrance atrium with all the answers.
Opening Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm; Sunday: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
North Bridge includes five hotels, three parking garages and two office buildings. The Macerich Company acquired the complex from Westfield in 2008. Macerich is known to acquire high-end shopping malls. Nordstrom occupies the first four floors of the building, covering one block on the corner of N. Rush Street and E. Grand Avenue.
The main entrance is through an 80-foot high atrium on Michigan Avenue. The architects for the mall project are Anthony Belluschi Associates, and Callison for the Nordstrom building. North Bridge's oldest edifice is the American Medical Association building on State Street, designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange.
Besides the four-level shopping center with 50 world-class retailers, there are 20 or so plush restaurants and lively diners at North Bridge. This is a large venue, but there is a concierge desk at the main entrance atrium with all the answers.
Opening Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm; Sunday: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
6) InterContinental Chicago Hotel
Built in 1929, at the peak of Chicago’s skyscraper glory, this hotel combines a mix of Egyptian, Greek, Art Deco, Gothic, and medieval architectural styles for an impressive tower with various carved sections topped with a golden cupola. Originally home to the Medinah Athletic Club, the 42-story hotel included a boxing arena, an archery range, and an Olympic-size swimming pool, which is still intact.
If you're in the area, stop by the concierge desk to pick up an iPod featuring an audio tour of the original Athletic Club public spaces. The tour takes less than 30 minutes and directs you to some interesting interior rooms, at one flamboyant and elegant. Did you know that the center light fixture in the Grand Ballroom is a 12,000-pound Baccarat crystal chandelier, the largest in North America? There is also a more masculine "smoking lounge" with heavy timbering, lavish stained glass, and a hand-painted ceiling depicting the stories of King Arthur and Parsifal.
There is a lot more to see here – last but not least the elevated full-size indoor pool which holds 120,000 gallons of water and was named after Johnny Weissmuller, the famous Olympic athlete and actor who trained in it. Its blue Spanish majolica tiles and terra-cotta fountain of Neptune remain unchanged and will make a trip here even more worthwhile. There's also a Starbucks and Michael Jordan's Steakhouse at the ground level, plus Garrett’s Popcorn as well as the NBC studios just around the corner.
If you're in the area, stop by the concierge desk to pick up an iPod featuring an audio tour of the original Athletic Club public spaces. The tour takes less than 30 minutes and directs you to some interesting interior rooms, at one flamboyant and elegant. Did you know that the center light fixture in the Grand Ballroom is a 12,000-pound Baccarat crystal chandelier, the largest in North America? There is also a more masculine "smoking lounge" with heavy timbering, lavish stained glass, and a hand-painted ceiling depicting the stories of King Arthur and Parsifal.
There is a lot more to see here – last but not least the elevated full-size indoor pool which holds 120,000 gallons of water and was named after Johnny Weissmuller, the famous Olympic athlete and actor who trained in it. Its blue Spanish majolica tiles and terra-cotta fountain of Neptune remain unchanged and will make a trip here even more worthwhile. There's also a Starbucks and Michael Jordan's Steakhouse at the ground level, plus Garrett’s Popcorn as well as the NBC studios just around the corner.
7) Garrett Popcorn
At last count, Garrett Popcorn of Chicago had eleven different flavors of popcorn in both Crisp and Regular styles. Nut flavors are Pecan, Macadamia, Cashew, and Almond. Then there's Ranch, Caramel (Crisp), Cheesy Corn, Buttery, and Plain. The favorite has got to be Garrett Mix, a clever combination of Caramel/Crisp and Cheese/Corn.
Garrett Popcorn Shops was founded in 1949. The first store was opened on Madison Street. It has outlets in nine countries and counting, with offices in Chicago, Singapore, and Tokyo. Garrett also owns the Frango brand of chocolates. So far, chocolate-covered popcorn is not for serious consideration.
The popcorn recipes are Family TOP SECRET at Garrett. In 2002, Oprah proclaimed a container of Garrett's Popcorn to be one of her "favorite things." Shopping on State Street, one can smell the Garrett aroma a block away. The allure of cheddar and caramel cannot be resisted. It has been the happy downfall of many a cautious tourist.
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 10–8pm; Fri, Sat: 10am–9pm; Sun: 10am–7pm
Garrett Popcorn Shops was founded in 1949. The first store was opened on Madison Street. It has outlets in nine countries and counting, with offices in Chicago, Singapore, and Tokyo. Garrett also owns the Frango brand of chocolates. So far, chocolate-covered popcorn is not for serious consideration.
The popcorn recipes are Family TOP SECRET at Garrett. In 2002, Oprah proclaimed a container of Garrett's Popcorn to be one of her "favorite things." Shopping on State Street, one can smell the Garrett aroma a block away. The allure of cheddar and caramel cannot be resisted. It has been the happy downfall of many a cautious tourist.
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 10–8pm; Fri, Sat: 10am–9pm; Sun: 10am–7pm
8) Bloomingdale's Medinah Home
Originally a Shriner's Temple with an ornate three-level auditorium, the Medinah Temple is a beautiful, elaborate example of Moorish Revival architecture. Besides its pointed, bulbous domes and horseshoe arches that reflect the Islamic influence so popular in the design of many Shriner's Temples, many of the key elements – including the intricate geometric patterns around the windows and doors – remind of mosques and palaces usually to be found in Spain.
After giving home to some of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's most famous recordings from the late 1960s through the 1980s, this Chicago landmark has been repurposed and today houses a Bloomingdale's home store. Although the interior was gutted to create space for retail displays, the dome was restored and the stained glass windows and exterior were repaired to keep the original building's character intact.
The home store is sleek and well organized, with a spacious layout and beautiful crystal and other great items for the kitchen/dining room, but even if you don't plan to shop here, it is a nice place to have a meal or some nice hot tea from the T2 display, and enjoy exploring the nooks and crannies that lead to the stained glass windows.
Tip:
The 2nd-floor women's restroom may pique your interest, as it boasts the title of Chicago's most beautiful bathroom.
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 10am–7pm; Fri, Sat: 10am–8pm; Sun: 12–6pm
After giving home to some of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's most famous recordings from the late 1960s through the 1980s, this Chicago landmark has been repurposed and today houses a Bloomingdale's home store. Although the interior was gutted to create space for retail displays, the dome was restored and the stained glass windows and exterior were repaired to keep the original building's character intact.
The home store is sleek and well organized, with a spacious layout and beautiful crystal and other great items for the kitchen/dining room, but even if you don't plan to shop here, it is a nice place to have a meal or some nice hot tea from the T2 display, and enjoy exploring the nooks and crannies that lead to the stained glass windows.
Tip:
The 2nd-floor women's restroom may pique your interest, as it boasts the title of Chicago's most beautiful bathroom.
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 10am–7pm; Fri, Sat: 10am–8pm; Sun: 12–6pm
9) Saint James Cathedral
Saint James Cathedral, at the corner of Huron and Wabash Streets, is the "mother church" of Episcopalians of the United States. Founded in 1834, it is the oldest church of its kind in Chicago. It was almost destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.
The bell tower alone survived, to be incorporated into the current rebuilt church. The blackened stones at the top of the tower are mementos of the day of disaster. Saint James was made a cathedral in 1928 after the Cathedral Church of Saints Peter and Paul burned down. This arrangement ended in 1931. In 1955 Saint James was a cathedral again.
The original church was founded by Connecticut-born Juliette Kinzie, wife of Indian agent John Harris Kinzie. Abraham Lincoln prayed here shortly after he was elected President in 1860. In the mid-1980s, Saint James underwent a massive restoration to restore the building to the Arts-and-Crafts Gothic Revival design of the late 1800s.
Saint James Cathedral is a short distance from the "Magnificent Mile." Victorian-era stained glass windows depict Biblical scenes and ornate symbols. Christ-in-Mercy in the choir rose window is surrounded by angel musicians. The Transfiguration, Epiphany, Crucifixion, and Ascension illumine the marble altar and checkered marble floor.
Saint Andrew's Chapel, designed by architect Bertram Goodhue and based on a medieval Scottish abbey, was added to the Cathedral in the early 1920s.
The bell tower alone survived, to be incorporated into the current rebuilt church. The blackened stones at the top of the tower are mementos of the day of disaster. Saint James was made a cathedral in 1928 after the Cathedral Church of Saints Peter and Paul burned down. This arrangement ended in 1931. In 1955 Saint James was a cathedral again.
The original church was founded by Connecticut-born Juliette Kinzie, wife of Indian agent John Harris Kinzie. Abraham Lincoln prayed here shortly after he was elected President in 1860. In the mid-1980s, Saint James underwent a massive restoration to restore the building to the Arts-and-Crafts Gothic Revival design of the late 1800s.
Saint James Cathedral is a short distance from the "Magnificent Mile." Victorian-era stained glass windows depict Biblical scenes and ornate symbols. Christ-in-Mercy in the choir rose window is surrounded by angel musicians. The Transfiguration, Epiphany, Crucifixion, and Ascension illumine the marble altar and checkered marble floor.
Saint Andrew's Chapel, designed by architect Bertram Goodhue and based on a medieval Scottish abbey, was added to the Cathedral in the early 1920s.
10) Holy Name Cathedral
The Diocese of Chicago was founded in 1843 when Bishop William Quarter led his congregation from the Church of Saint Mary at Wabash and Madison Streets. They were destined for the new Church of the Holy Name on State Street, whose cornerstone was not laid until 1852. Both churches were destroyed in the Great Fire of 1871.
In 1874, architect Patrick Keely of Brooklyn was chosen as the designer of the new Holy Name Cathedral. In 1880, Holy Name Cathedral became the base of the Archdiocese of Chicago and the primary diocese of the American Midwest. Keely's Gothic Revival design is based on the verticality of the pinnacles and arches of the Gothic churches of Europe.
Vertical themes prevail in the interior. The vaulted ceiling, bundle piers, and wooden tracery represent the mystical Tree of Life. The cathedral has a capacity for 1,200 worshipers. The tower spire reaches 210 feet above ground level. The Resurrection Crucifix, hanging above the altar, was created by sculptor Ivo Demetz.
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 5:30am-7pm; Sat: 7:30am-9pm; Sun: 6:30am-7pm
In 1874, architect Patrick Keely of Brooklyn was chosen as the designer of the new Holy Name Cathedral. In 1880, Holy Name Cathedral became the base of the Archdiocese of Chicago and the primary diocese of the American Midwest. Keely's Gothic Revival design is based on the verticality of the pinnacles and arches of the Gothic churches of Europe.
Vertical themes prevail in the interior. The vaulted ceiling, bundle piers, and wooden tracery represent the mystical Tree of Life. The cathedral has a capacity for 1,200 worshipers. The tower spire reaches 210 feet above ground level. The Resurrection Crucifix, hanging above the altar, was created by sculptor Ivo Demetz.
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 5:30am-7pm; Sat: 7:30am-9pm; Sun: 6:30am-7pm
11) Chicago Water Tower
The great Chicago Water Tower is located at 806 North Michigan Avenue in the Magnificent Mile district. It sits in the small Jane M. Byrne Plaza. The Tower was made to house a huge water pump used to draw water from Lake Michigan. These days, The Water Tower serves as an art gallery for photographers and filmmakers.
The Tower was created in 1869 by architect William W. Boyington. It is almost 183 feet high construction, built of yellow Lemont limestone. It was used together with the Chicago Avenue Pumping Station to control water surges and assist in firefighting. Oscar Wilde once said, "it was a castellated monstrosity with pepper boxes stuck all over it."
It is thought that the Water Tower's castled style inspired the design of the White Castle restaurants. The Chicago Water Tower was named an American Water Landmark in 1969. The tower was featured in the reality television finales of The Amazing Race 6 and The Amazing Race 29.
The Tower was created in 1869 by architect William W. Boyington. It is almost 183 feet high construction, built of yellow Lemont limestone. It was used together with the Chicago Avenue Pumping Station to control water surges and assist in firefighting. Oscar Wilde once said, "it was a castellated monstrosity with pepper boxes stuck all over it."
It is thought that the Water Tower's castled style inspired the design of the White Castle restaurants. The Chicago Water Tower was named an American Water Landmark in 1969. The tower was featured in the reality television finales of The Amazing Race 6 and The Amazing Race 29.
12) Museum of Contemporary Art
Established in 1967, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), near Water Tower Place in Chicago, is among the largest contemporary art venues in the world today. The main collection is composed of thousands of pieces of Post-World War II art. The gallery-style museum features individually curated shows throughout the year.
In 1964, a gang of thirty critics, collectors, dealers, and others of their kind met at the home of paper doll artist and critic Doris Lane Butler. Doris' aim was to establish a venue to complement the Art Institute of Chicago. The MCA opened in the fall of 1967 at 237 East Ontario Street, the former HQ of Playboy Enterprises.
The current commodious MCA space at 220 E. Chicago Avenue, designed by German architect Josef Paul Kliehues, opened its doors in 1996. The five-story building, made of limestone and cast aluminum, contains 45,000 square feet of gallery space. It houses a theater, studio, education center, museum shop, restaurant, and sculpture garden.
The main entrance massive staircase with sculpture bays reminds one of the propylaea of the ancient Acropolis of Athens. The entry hall has an atrium flanked by galleries for temporary exhibitions. Other, larger galleries are on each floor. Critics have detected the spirit and architectural influences of German-American architect Mies van Der Rohe throughout the Museum.
Opening Hours:
Wed-Thu, Sat-Sun: 10am-5pm; Tue, Fri: 10am-9pm;
Closed: Mondays, New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
In 1964, a gang of thirty critics, collectors, dealers, and others of their kind met at the home of paper doll artist and critic Doris Lane Butler. Doris' aim was to establish a venue to complement the Art Institute of Chicago. The MCA opened in the fall of 1967 at 237 East Ontario Street, the former HQ of Playboy Enterprises.
The current commodious MCA space at 220 E. Chicago Avenue, designed by German architect Josef Paul Kliehues, opened its doors in 1996. The five-story building, made of limestone and cast aluminum, contains 45,000 square feet of gallery space. It houses a theater, studio, education center, museum shop, restaurant, and sculpture garden.
The main entrance massive staircase with sculpture bays reminds one of the propylaea of the ancient Acropolis of Athens. The entry hall has an atrium flanked by galleries for temporary exhibitions. Other, larger galleries are on each floor. Critics have detected the spirit and architectural influences of German-American architect Mies van Der Rohe throughout the Museum.
Opening Hours:
Wed-Thu, Sat-Sun: 10am-5pm; Tue, Fri: 10am-9pm;
Closed: Mondays, New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
13) John Hancock Center / 360 Chicago Observation Deck (must see)
In the section of Michigan Avenue known as the "Magnificent Mile," you'll find a 100-story skyscraper called the John Hancock Center. Construction of this very tall downtown Chicago building began in 1965 and reached completion in 1969. At that time, it was the second-tallest skyscraper in the world. This iconic high-rise was officially renamed "875 North Michigan Avenue" in 2018.
Construction was financed by the John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company, thus giving a name to the original structure. The building was designed by architect Bruce Graham and structural engineer Fazlur Rahman Khan. The John Hancock Center's longtime nickname used by locals is "Big John."
This multi-use building features retail and office space on the lower floors and luxury residences on the higher floors. On the 44th floor, you'll find the beautiful sky lobby, a full-service grocery store, and a state-of-the-art exercise room. There's even an indoor swimming pool! There are also several restaurants in the building.
On the 94th floor, over 1,000 feet in the air, is the 360 Chicago Observation Deck. Visitors to this deck can see stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. For the ultimate thrill ride, try 360 Chicago's TILT. TILT has you hanging over the edge of the building where, behind a moving glass platform, you get a downward look at the city far below!
Construction was financed by the John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company, thus giving a name to the original structure. The building was designed by architect Bruce Graham and structural engineer Fazlur Rahman Khan. The John Hancock Center's longtime nickname used by locals is "Big John."
This multi-use building features retail and office space on the lower floors and luxury residences on the higher floors. On the 44th floor, you'll find the beautiful sky lobby, a full-service grocery store, and a state-of-the-art exercise room. There's even an indoor swimming pool! There are also several restaurants in the building.
On the 94th floor, over 1,000 feet in the air, is the 360 Chicago Observation Deck. Visitors to this deck can see stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. For the ultimate thrill ride, try 360 Chicago's TILT. TILT has you hanging over the edge of the building where, behind a moving glass platform, you get a downward look at the city far below!
14) 900 North Michigan Shops
At 871 feet in height, 900 North Michigan is the 31st tallest building in the USA. It is a 1988 development of Urban Real Properties. A perfect counterbalance to neighboring Water Tower Place, it is the second vertical mall on the Magnificent Mile. Its main feature is the high-end shopping Mecca, 900 North Michigan Shops.
The end of the six-story high shops atrium is dominated by Bloomingdales. The ample spaces hold several luxury shops, restaurants, and a lesser "anchor" Henri Bendel. Escalators arranged in parallel guide visitors past other shops. The skyscraper building itself is the nexus of Chicago's Magnificent Mile.
Floors 21 through 28 of 900 North Michigan house condominiums. Floors 8 through 20 contain offices. The Four Seasons Hotel is on tower floors 30 through 46. Floors 48 through 66 have 106 condo residences. The rear of the block is home to a 12-story parking garage, street-level retailers, and a medical clinic.
Aster Hall, a 22,000-square-foot dining hall and food emporium, offers refreshments to visitors. A golf swing suite lounge has simulated sports. Gucci, MaxMara, Montblanc, Tesla, BONOBOS, and Sur La Table are among about 70 retail outlets, including spas and fitness centers. The concierge desk has special offers aimed at out-of-towners.
Opening Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm; Sunday: 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm
The end of the six-story high shops atrium is dominated by Bloomingdales. The ample spaces hold several luxury shops, restaurants, and a lesser "anchor" Henri Bendel. Escalators arranged in parallel guide visitors past other shops. The skyscraper building itself is the nexus of Chicago's Magnificent Mile.
Floors 21 through 28 of 900 North Michigan house condominiums. Floors 8 through 20 contain offices. The Four Seasons Hotel is on tower floors 30 through 46. Floors 48 through 66 have 106 condo residences. The rear of the block is home to a 12-story parking garage, street-level retailers, and a medical clinic.
Aster Hall, a 22,000-square-foot dining hall and food emporium, offers refreshments to visitors. A golf swing suite lounge has simulated sports. Gucci, MaxMara, Montblanc, Tesla, BONOBOS, and Sur La Table are among about 70 retail outlets, including spas and fitness centers. The concierge desk has special offers aimed at out-of-towners.
Opening Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm; Sunday: 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm
15) Palmolive Building
The Palmolive Building, originally home to the Colgate-Palmolive-Peet Corporation, was built in 1929 by architectural firms Holabird & Root. Holabird & Root is famed for developing the architectural styles known as Chicago School, Art Deco, Modern Architecture and Sustainable Architecture. The Palmolive Building fits in the Art Deco category.
The building was originally hailed as "a monument to cleanliness." It was the first skyscraper built so far from the Loop on the north end of Michigan Avenue. It was among the country's first "set-back" Art Deco skyscrapers. "Set-back" designs were made popular by zoning laws and the renderings of New York architect Hugh Ferns.
A navigational beacon operated from the top of the building from 1930 to 1931. It shined from the top of a 97-foot tower, and it was called the Lindbergh Beacon. It was donated to the City of Chicago by Elmer Sperry, inventor of the gyroscope.
The beacon was turned off in 1981. It was shining in private windows. In 2007 the beam was turned on and directed in a narrow arc over Lake Michigan. There have been no more complaints. Playboy Enterprises took over the building in 1989 and changed its name. In 2001, new owners, developers Draper and Kramer, changed the name back to Palmolive.
The building was originally hailed as "a monument to cleanliness." It was the first skyscraper built so far from the Loop on the north end of Michigan Avenue. It was among the country's first "set-back" Art Deco skyscrapers. "Set-back" designs were made popular by zoning laws and the renderings of New York architect Hugh Ferns.
A navigational beacon operated from the top of the building from 1930 to 1931. It shined from the top of a 97-foot tower, and it was called the Lindbergh Beacon. It was donated to the City of Chicago by Elmer Sperry, inventor of the gyroscope.
The beacon was turned off in 1981. It was shining in private windows. In 2007 the beam was turned on and directed in a narrow arc over Lake Michigan. There have been no more complaints. Playboy Enterprises took over the building in 1989 and changed its name. In 2001, new owners, developers Draper and Kramer, changed the name back to Palmolive.
16) Drake Hotel
At the very top of the Magnificent Mile at 140 East Walton Place is the landmark Drake Hotel. Tracy Drake and John Drake Jr., brothers in life and business, bought the property from the estate of Potter Palmer in 1916. The project was financed by the prominent families of Palmer, Armour, Swift, and McCormick. The purchase price was $10 million.
The hotel has 535 bedrooms, 74 of which are suites. It was designed in the Italian-Renaissance style by architects Benjamin Marshall and Charles E. Fox. It has a six-room Presidential suite, several restaurants and two ballrooms, the Palm Court, and Club International. Gangster Frank Nitti had offices there until the early 1940s.
The hotel has been a distinguished gathering place for politicians, royalty, movie stars, and other assorted glitterati over the years. Celebrities include Winston Churchill, Eleanor Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower, Princess Diana, Liz Taylor, Judy Garland, Walt Disney, Frank Sinatra, Joe DiMaggio, and Marilyn Monroe.
A popular function at the hotel is the Afternoon Tea. This tradition dates from 1840, long before the Drake itself. The Empress of Japan, Princess Diana, and Queen Elizabeth II participated in the Afternoon Tea. Tea was held in the Palm court using blends of Assam, Keemun, and Oolong teas accompanied by the soothing strains of a harp.
The hotel has 535 bedrooms, 74 of which are suites. It was designed in the Italian-Renaissance style by architects Benjamin Marshall and Charles E. Fox. It has a six-room Presidential suite, several restaurants and two ballrooms, the Palm Court, and Club International. Gangster Frank Nitti had offices there until the early 1940s.
The hotel has been a distinguished gathering place for politicians, royalty, movie stars, and other assorted glitterati over the years. Celebrities include Winston Churchill, Eleanor Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower, Princess Diana, Liz Taylor, Judy Garland, Walt Disney, Frank Sinatra, Joe DiMaggio, and Marilyn Monroe.
A popular function at the hotel is the Afternoon Tea. This tradition dates from 1840, long before the Drake itself. The Empress of Japan, Princess Diana, and Queen Elizabeth II participated in the Afternoon Tea. Tea was held in the Palm court using blends of Assam, Keemun, and Oolong teas accompanied by the soothing strains of a harp.
17) Oak Street
Next to Michigan Avenue, just north of the Magnificent Mile, is the diminutive upscale shopping area called "Oak Street." The area includes Oak Street itself and Rush and Walton Streets. The Oak Street area is small but can still outshine the Mile with more high-name brands and designer boutiques.
Oak Street, with its narrow tree-lined streets is more intimate than the overwhelming Mile. There are quite a few sumptuous historic mansions of Chicago's wealthiest, dating from the 1800s. Prestige shopping and upscale restaurants like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, the Pump Room and the original Morton's Steakhouse are here as well.
Nearby are the Drake, the Knickerbocker, Viceroy and the Waldorf Astoria, all Gold Coast hotels. Also nearby are the Driehaus Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) and Newberry Library.
How is the shopping? In Hermes one finds luxurious silk scarves, leather crafts and handbags. Giorgio Armani is next door. Loro Piana is good for wool and cashmere. Fashion outlets include Tory Burch, minimalist VMR, and Escada of Germany. Buccellati offers luxury watches and rings. Tom Ford has accessories and cosmetics.
Milani Boutique is for children's wear. Maje sells pret-a-porter ("ready-to-wear") clothes. The posh haberdashery Paul Stuart, sports shop Athleta, and Tod's Italian shoes share the street with St. John Boutique.
Oak Street, with its narrow tree-lined streets is more intimate than the overwhelming Mile. There are quite a few sumptuous historic mansions of Chicago's wealthiest, dating from the 1800s. Prestige shopping and upscale restaurants like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, the Pump Room and the original Morton's Steakhouse are here as well.
Nearby are the Drake, the Knickerbocker, Viceroy and the Waldorf Astoria, all Gold Coast hotels. Also nearby are the Driehaus Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) and Newberry Library.
How is the shopping? In Hermes one finds luxurious silk scarves, leather crafts and handbags. Giorgio Armani is next door. Loro Piana is good for wool and cashmere. Fashion outlets include Tory Burch, minimalist VMR, and Escada of Germany. Buccellati offers luxury watches and rings. Tom Ford has accessories and cosmetics.
Milani Boutique is for children's wear. Maje sells pret-a-porter ("ready-to-wear") clothes. The posh haberdashery Paul Stuart, sports shop Athleta, and Tod's Italian shoes share the street with St. John Boutique.
18) Oak Street Beach
Until the late 1800s, Chicago's Lake Shore sloped gently from Oak Street to the Chicago river, a peaceful enclave for the Lakeshore property owners. Then, in 1886, Civil War vet, carnival operator, steamboat captain and brassy con-man George Streeter arrived. George's boat, Reutan, full of cargo and people, ran aground on a sandbar.
Unfazed by the stranding, George formed a small island from the ship's cargo and trash, and declared the ship-trash-pier-sand island to be his own. Battles followed, including gunfights. George was evicted. The land, filled in, was called Streeterville. Streeterville is now the site of the John Hancock Tower and the Chicago Water Tower.
Oak Street Beach was formed by sand silting up on the north side of Streeterville. The beach was initially managed by the Lincoln Park District, consolidated in 1934 within the Chicago Park District. Oak Street Beach has been one of Chicago's most popular socializing and swim sites.
The park has a wealth of amenities. It is provided with restrooms, Wi-Fi, beach chairs, umbrellas and street food. The Oak Street Beach also hosts volleyball tournaments in the summer. The swimming zone extends from Division Street to the buoys by the Chess Pavilion. There is limited parking. Access can be had by Red Line public transit or by bus.
Unfazed by the stranding, George formed a small island from the ship's cargo and trash, and declared the ship-trash-pier-sand island to be his own. Battles followed, including gunfights. George was evicted. The land, filled in, was called Streeterville. Streeterville is now the site of the John Hancock Tower and the Chicago Water Tower.
Oak Street Beach was formed by sand silting up on the north side of Streeterville. The beach was initially managed by the Lincoln Park District, consolidated in 1934 within the Chicago Park District. Oak Street Beach has been one of Chicago's most popular socializing and swim sites.
The park has a wealth of amenities. It is provided with restrooms, Wi-Fi, beach chairs, umbrellas and street food. The Oak Street Beach also hosts volleyball tournaments in the summer. The swimming zone extends from Division Street to the buoys by the Chess Pavilion. There is limited parking. Access can be had by Red Line public transit or by bus.
Walking Tours in Chicago, Illinois
Create Your Own Walk in Chicago
Creating your own self-guided walk in Chicago is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
University of Chicago Walking Tour
Founded in 1890, the University of Chicago is among the world’s most prestigious educational institutions. As of 2020, the University’s students, faculty and staff have included 100 Nobel laureates, giving it the fourth-most affiliated Nobel laureates of any university.
Set in the heart of Chicago’s famous eclectic neighborhood, Hyde Park, the campus is worth a visit as it offers a... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
Set in the heart of Chicago’s famous eclectic neighborhood, Hyde Park, the campus is worth a visit as it offers a... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
Chicago Chinatown Walking Tour
Tucked away just south of the Loop, the Chinatown of Chicago was established in 1912 and is considered one of the best examples of American Chinatown. While it may be one of Chicago’s smallest neighborhoods geographically, it is big on character, colors, sights, sounds, and flavors. Here, you’ll find a wide range of unique boutiques, specialty shops, religious sights, authentic Chinese... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Chicago Introduction Walking Tour
Sitting on the shore of Lake Michigan in the U.S. State of Illinois, Chicago has had many nicknames throughout its history, including the Windy City, Chi-Town, Second City, and the City of the Big Shoulders referring to the numerous towers and high-risers that punctuate its skyline.
Prior to the Europeans, the area of today's Chicago was successively inhabited by various Native American... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles
Prior to the Europeans, the area of today's Chicago was successively inhabited by various Native American... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles
Loop District Architecture Walking Tour
Chicago features an outstanding architectural legacy, having long been connected with some of architecture's most important names: Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, Mies van der Rohe, Holabird & Root, and others. The multi-layered Loop District, in particular, offers an extensive number of Chicago’s famous architectural “must-sees” – from modern skyscrapers to historic buildings... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.6 Km or 2.9 Miles
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.6 Km or 2.9 Miles
Chicago Old Town Walking Tour
Settled in 1850 by German immigrants, Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood is a popular destination for locals and visitors who cater to the entertainment venues, restaurants, pubs, coffee shops and boutiques – all of which have turned an area once referred to as the “Cabbage Patch” into an attraction that rivals Navy Pier, Wrigley Field and the Magnificent Mile.
Start your Old Town walking... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
Start your Old Town walking... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
Chicago Navy Pier Walking Tour
Additional to scenic views of the lake, the boats, and the city skyline, the Navy Pier offers a variety of attractions on the waterfront – for kids as well as adults – that draw nearly ten million people annually, making this Chicago's most visited spot. Yes, some may see it as a “tourist trap”, but it is worth the time and money to spend some time here, so take this self-guided walk... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles
Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip
Chicago Souvenirs: 15 Distinct Local Products to Bring Home
One of the most fascinating cities in the U.S., if not the whole world, Chicago has no shortage of things closely associated with it, often due to their direct origin (blues, gangstership, etc.), so one might literally be spoiled for choice as to what to choose as a "piece" of Chicago to...
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