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Sandy Bredine 2001
River Cruise, May 2023

This was a wonderful learning experience with a terrific volunteer docent Sandy who knew the designers and architects of each of the numerous buildings that were highlighted on the 90 minute tour. A multitude of Historical facts were woven into the information about the Chicago River and the surrounding areas. It was a spectacular tour! Anne W

Rene Cantu 2023
Historic Treasures, May 2023

We booked this tour today and walked with Rene for 2 hours past the sights. We even went inside some special buildings and could learn a lot about the architecture and history. He explained it wonderfully and also answered questions. Afterwards, he even gave us a few special tips. I can only recommend this tour. Reiko S Hamburg

Bill Coffin, 2004
Art Deco Landmarks in Chicago Communities, April 2023

Thank you for an outstanding presentation. This is the best art deco presentation that I, a big art deco fan, have ever seen. Bernard and Marianne Phelan

Steve Haddad 2020
River Cruise, May 18 2023

Our docent Steve was wonderful. He was so knowledgeable and he made the entire tour so interesting. We didn’t want him to stop talking even after he talked for 90 minutes straight!! I loved this tour but Steve made it worthwhile. Thanks Steve!! Sarah B. Chicago, IL

Timothy Harris 2019
River Cruise, May 2023

Tim, the volunteer tour guide, did an excellent job of filling our 90 minutes with structural and historical information about each of the beautiful structures in the heart of Chicago. The weather happened to be perfect today for a boat ride, but despite any weather issue I am sure it would be a great experience. The captain and crew safely and smoothly navigated us along the river and provided us with wonderful views for many photo opportunities. I would completely recommend to anyone!!! Paige G

Douglas Hurdelbrink 2019
What’s New?. May 2023

This tour was amazing. Our guide Doug was excellent and he knew all the answers to our questions. Loved looking at some of the new buildings, a lot of residential and the new Apple Store. I totally would recommend this walking tour.  Laila P

Dan Johnson 2016
River Cruise, May 2023

What an amazing way to see Chicago! Our volunteer docent, Dan J, was so knowledgeable. I would strongly recommend this as a highlight of my trip. Judith L

Larry Kameya 2013
River Cruise, May 2023

Was recommended this tour by a friend who had previously visited. As it was our first trip to Chicago, we thought it would be a great way to see the city and learn about the many different buildings which dominate the skyline. And who better to learn from than the Chicago Architecture Center, who partner with First Lady. We’re so pleased we did. Larry, our volunteer guide, was so knowledgeable and did a terrific job. The 90 minute cruise went up and down the river and out to the edge of Lake Michigan. Definitely worth doing. Elaine P Redbridge, UK

Jennifer McAllister 2004
Historic Treasures, May 2023

I really have a wonderful and unforgettable tour of the most historic treasure of Chicago. Learn about the great architectural landmarks. Very nice trip. Thank you Jenny. Anne C

Burt Michaels 2019
A Walk Through Time, April 2023

Great way to learn about the history of the city and its incredible architecture. Worth the 90 mins. Burt was very knowledgeable. Brian S

Susan Robertson 2009
Historic Treasures, April 2023

This was an incredible tour. I grew up near Chicago but did not realize how beautiful the city is. Susan Robertson was our guide and she was wonderful. I learned so much and was so inspired! Katy G

Ron Roman 2023
Historic Treasures, May 2023

Ron was a terrific tour guide, full of interesting information regarding great Chicago buildings and the people who built them. GHC Koloa

Mitch Rosenfeld 2016
Art Deco Skyscrapers Riverfront, May 2023

Highest rating; for all levels of interest. This tour covered Art Deco architecture within a half mile loop or so. Our tour was hosted by Mitch, who was quite knowledgeable and has been doing the tour for a long time. It was fast paced because of the amount of material to cover, but Mitch was accommodating for a photographer, and somebody with a slight disability. History of those that commissioned the buildings and details of the era as well as history of the architecture was provided. Highly recommend. Txmagca Austin, TX

Matt Sheffer 2019
Must-See Chicago

MATT! What an insightful, joyful afternoon made warm and sunny in spite of a damp May Day. Starting at Whacker and stopping along the way down to Millennium Park appreciating the various skylines and public art. We walked south then west into the Loop. Twinzone2

Russ Seward, 2005
River Cruise, April 2023

We did their river cruise. Great views, informative talk by the volunteer docent (Ross) pointing out stylistic details, explaining construction methods, and throwing in historical details when relevant. He also answered our questions about the bridges before the cruise started, and told us where we could learn more about their function. We could hear him perfectly well, and the weather cooperated (it got chilly towards the end though, where buildings aren’t blocking the wind as much). We recommend walking along the river to and from the boat, the Riverwalk is really nice, if you don’t like stairs look at the maps to find descents with ramps, but look out for construction down there (we had to go up streetside once to get around a place where they had blocked the path). Inspire226219

Natali Tygielski 2023
Historic Treasures, May 2023

Tour guide Natalye (sic) gave an informative and fun walking tour in the downtown loop! The speaker’s description of the building history, personnel and architecture style made me appreciate these cool buildings even more.  Robert N

Peter Weil 2015
University of Chicago Tour, April 2023

For the University of Chicago tour, Peter was our delightful guide. His knowledge of the architecture, and university history and his experience having attended U of C combined to make this one of our favorite tours! We learned so much and each walking tour leaves me so impressed with the level of commitment of the docents to make this the best tour center around! Well worth the price!! solarpowered Saint Charles, IL

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