{"id":2346,"date":"2015-01-30T15:15:03","date_gmt":"2015-01-30T15:15:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.sandwave.dev\/stories\/chicago-landscape-lavish-buildings\/"},"modified":"2023-06-21T17:57:47","modified_gmt":"2023-06-21T17:57:47","slug":"chicago-landscape-lavish-buildings","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.expedia.ca\/stories\/chicago-landscape-lavish-buildings\/","title":{"rendered":"Chicago – A Landscape of Lavish Buildings"},"content":{"rendered":"

Just about every city lauds its buildings but none that I\u2019ve visited fetes them like Chicago<\/a> does. And for good reason. This city was destined for architectural greatness starting with the “Great Rebuilding<\/a>”\u00a0that began after the Chicago Fire of 1871. It\u2019s impossible to go to Chicago<\/a> and not be entranced by its buildings and public spaces. At least part of every visit must focus on architecture.<\/p>\n

From group tours to individual guides, on foot or by boat, there are many ways to explore Chicago architecture. Before leaving home decide how you\u2019ll explore this city. Consider the options below but also check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation<\/a>\u2019s website for events that may be going on when you\u2019re there. And visit the Chicago Greeter<\/a>\u00a0site to book a volunteer greeter who will introduce you to their city with the unique passion of a local\u2013many languages and themes, including architecture, are offered.<\/p>\n

Now, three ways to explore the buildings of Chicago.<\/p>\n

\"Looking<\/a>
Looking at Chicago’s skyline through the front window of the architectural boat tour.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Chicago\u2019s architecture by boat<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF) runs cruises up and back down the Chicago River with CAF certified guides providing lots of commentary and architectural information along the way. It is the only organization authorized to do so. From the boat you\u2019ll get quite a different perspective on the city than you get from the street. This tour takes you through the downtown past both iconic Chicago buildings and newer ones like the Trump Tower and into areas that have become residential through gentrification. You\u2019ll learn about the history of Chicago as it is intensely intertwined with the city\u2019s architecture. This tour is a great option to start your visit to Chicago.<\/p>\n

Chicago\u2019s architecture on foot<\/strong><\/p>\n

Downtown Chicago is laid out in an easily navigable grid pattern. It\u2019s natural to explore this area, called the Loop, on foot. Start your tour at the Visitor Information Center that is located in the Chicago Cultural Center at 78 East Washington Street. Pick up a map and information on your specific interests. Since you\u2019re there, find out what free cultural events will be going on at the Center while you\u2019re in town.<\/p>\n

Now I\u2019m not an architectural nerd so the technology behind a structure doesn\u2019t impress me. However, the feel\u2013the experience\u2013of a building does. From my perspective, here are three highlights you won\u2019t want to miss:<\/p>\n