Chicago Loop: Art, Skyscrapers, Millennium Park & "The Bean"

Highlights

• Learn about the elevated train system that gives the Loop its name.
• Gaze at stunning works of art made from delicate, colorful Tiffany glass.
• Immerse yourself in the stunning architecture and rich history of Chicago.
• Go inside some of the city's most breathtaking public buildings and lobbies.

Description

The Loop & Millennium Park tour takes you through the heart of downtown, where historic landmarks, modern architecture, and vibrant public spaces come together to create a unique urban experience. 

In warmer weather, we spend more time in Millennium Park amongst the public art.

In winter, we'll split our time between braving the crisp winter air to admire the towering skyscrapers and warming up inside some of the city's most breathtaking public buildings and lobbies.

Starting with Marshall Fields, now the Macy’s on State Street, this historic building showcases stunning architecture and was once home to one of the city’s most famous department stores. Heading to The Picasso in Daley Plaza, you’ll encounter a striking steel sculpture gifted to Chicago by Pablo Picasso himself, symbolizing the city’s commitment to modern art. From there, it’s a short stroll to Millennium Park, where you can admire the sprawling green space that serves as a hub for art and culture.

Within Millennium Park, you’ll see the iconic Crown Fountain, featuring video projections of Chicagoans’ faces cascading with water, making it a perfect mix of interactive art and playful design. Learn about The Great Fire of 1871 as you pass landmarks built during the city’s rebirth, highlighting Chicago’s resilience and innovative engineering. Turning to infrastructure, the tour wouldn’t be complete without a glance at The L (elevated trains), a vital part of the city’s transportation system and an enduring symbol of urban life.

The Start of Route 66, marked with a sign downtown, commemorates the legendary road trip route that began right in the city’s heart and stretches all the way to California. Next, you’ll visit The Art Institute of Chicago, home to a world-renowned collection of paintings, sculptures, and cultural artifacts. Finally, the tour reaches the iconic Cloud Gate, affectionately known as "The Bean." This reflective stainless-steel sculpture is a crowd favorite for photos and represents the city’s creativity and modern identity.

This walking tour encapsulates the vibrant energy and history of the downtown area, providing visitors with both an educational and visually captivating experience.