University of Chicago Walking Tour (Self Guided), Chicago

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 wonderful chance to walk amongst impressive buildings that range from Academic Gothic forms to Neoclassical to the latest in contemporary design – all making for an interesting experience as you stroll around, bumping shoulders with students and faculty.

While the Midway Plaisance is a favorite destination for biking, walking, sitting and studying in the summer (or skating in the winter), you will want to stop by several landmarks like the Rockefeller Chapel – the University’s official “church”, glorious as ever with its high ceiling and huge organ inside; the Oriental Museum, housing rare (and huge) Near Eastern artifacts; the architecturally significant, painstakingly restored Robie House; the glass-domed Mansueto Library and the Henry Moore sculpture on the site of the first sustained nuclear reaction (next to the Regenstein Library).

Most of these sites (and more!) are free or by suggested donation, so give yourself time to take in everything at your own pace, guided by our self-guided walking tour.