Walkin With Colin: Chicago Tour Du Jour

Walkin’ With Colin: Chicago Tour Du Jour takes visitors on an engaging exploration of the Windy City’s rich history and vibrant culture. Led by an experienced guide, the 2-hour walking tour showcases iconic landmarks, from Chagall’s dazzling mosaic to Calder’s striking Flamingo sculpture. As the journey unfolds, participants discover the city’s architectural gems and learn about its captivating past. What makes this tour truly unique, however, is the chance to take in Chicago’s dynamic spirit, hinting at the unforgettable experiences that await.

Key Points

• The tour begins at 1 N Dearborn St. and explores Chicago’s art, history, and architecture over a 2-hour walking experience led by a knowledgeable guide.
• The first stop features Chagall’s Four Seasons mosaic artwork, where the guide shares insights into the artist’s dreamlike, abstract style.
• The tour then visits the historic Marquette Building, showcasing Chicago School architecture with intricate terra cotta ornamentation and bronze entrance doors.
• Participants have the opportunity to view Calder’s Flamingo sculpture, a 53-foot-tall, bright red sculpture designed with sweeping, curved lines.
• The tour concludes at the Chicago Cultural Center, featuring impressive Beaux-Arts architecture and an extensive collection of art, including sculptures and murals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Explore the Starting Location

Where does the tour begin?

The Chicago tour begins at 1 N Dearborn St, under the Red 1 Roof Entrance of the 1 North Dearborn Building. This is the starting point where the group will meet and set off on their explorative journey through the city’s rich history, art, and architecture.

The Chicago tour commences at 1 N Dearborn St, beneath the Red 1 Roof Entrance of the 1 North Dearborn Building, where the group will embark on their explorative journey.

It’s a convenient and centrally located meeting spot, making it easy for participants to find.

From here, the knowledgeable guide will lead the group on a captivating 2-hour walking tour, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

Discover Chagall’s Four Seasons

As the tour begins, the group will first visit Chagall’s Four Seasons, a stunning mosaic artwork adorning the wall of a building.

The vibrant piece, created by renowned artist Marc Chagall, depicts the four seasons in a dreamlike, abstract style.

Visitors will have 15 minutes to admire the intricate details and symbolism of this captivating public art installation.

The guide will share insights into Chagall’s artistic approach and the significance of the work within the context of Chicago’s rich cultural heritage.

This stop sets the tone for the engaging exploration of the city’s architectural and artistic treasures.

Admire the Marquette Building

After taking in the vibrant colors and whimsical imagery of Chagall’s Four Seasons, the tour group makes its way to the nearby Marquette Building.

This century-old landmark is a masterpiece of Chicago School architecture, with its intricate terra cotta ornamentation and striking bronze entrance doors. The guide explains the building’s fascinating history, including its role as the headquarters of the Marquette National Bank.

Visitors marvel at the ornate elevators and admire the stunning lobby, which features a series of iconic mural panels depicting the early exploration of the Great Lakes region.

This stop offers a glimpse into Chicago’s rich architectural heritage.

Marvel at Calder’s Flamingo

Departing the Marquette Building, the tour group strolls towards the striking Calder’s Flamingo sculpture.

Standing 53 feet tall, the iconic red sculpture dominates the plaza. Designed by renowned artist Alexander Calder, the abstract work features sweeping, curved lines that evoke the graceful movements of a flamingo.

The guide explains Calder’s innovative use of negative space and bold colors, which create a visually stunning piece. Participants marvel at the sculpture’s delicate balance and playful, kinetic energy.

The guide encourages the group to walk around the Flamingo, appreciating its dynamic presence from different angles.

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Encounter the Chicago Picasso Statue

The group now moves towards the imposing Chicago Picasso Statue, a 50-foot-tall steel sculpture that dominates the plaza outside the Chicago Civic Center.

Colin explains that Picasso gifted this monumental work to the city in 1967, intending it to be an abstract interpretation of a woman’s head.

Standing before the towering, cubist figure, the group marvels at its bold, geometric design and the way it interacts with the surrounding architecture.

Colin highlights Picasso’s genius in creating a piece that both complements and challenges the classical buildings nearby, making it a beloved landmark for Chicagoans.

Appreciate the Chicago Temple Building

As the group departs the Picasso Statue, Colin leads them towards the Chicago Temple Building – a stunning example of Chicago’s renowned architecture.

This early 20th-century skyscraper boasts an awe-inspiring Gothic style, with its intricate stone carvings and soaring spire. Colin explains that the building was commissioned by the First United Methodist Church and serves as their headquarters.

Participants marvel at the building’s impressive scale and attention to detail, learning about the architectural innovations that made such a grand structure possible during that era.

The grand scale and meticulous craftsmanship of the Chicago Temple Building fascinated participants, who learned about its groundbreaking architectural achievements.

After 10 minutes of exploration, the tour continues towards the next iconic stop.

Experience the Chicago Theatre

Next, the group makes its way towards the iconic Chicago Theatre.

This historic venue, known for its grand marquee and ornate interior, has been a cultural landmark since it opened in 1921.

As the tour guide shares fascinating stories about the theatre’s past, the group marvels at the stunning Baroque-style architecture and the impressive Louis XIV-inspired decor.

They learn about the theatre’s role in shaping Chicago’s entertainment scene and its enduring legacy as a premier performance space.

The tour participants leave with a deeper appreciation for this architectural gem and its enduring significance in the city’s cultural fabric.

Conclude at the Chicago Cultural Center

After exploring the iconic Chicago Theatre, the tour group heads towards their final destination: the Chicago Cultural Center. As they arrive, they are greeted by the building’s impressive Beaux-Arts architecture and stunning glass dome.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Artwork | The Cultural Center houses an extensive collection of art, including sculptures, paintings, and murals. |

| Performances | The venue also hosts a variety of cultural events, such as concerts, lectures, and dance performances. |

| Architecture | Visitors can marvel at the ornate interiors, featuring intricate mosaics and grandiose stairwells.

The tour concludes with a final discussion, allowing participants to reflect on the rich history and cultural significance of the sites they have explored throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for individuals with disabilities. The guide is experienced in accommodating participants with various needs to ensure an enjoyable and accessible experience for all.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups. Organizers can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary, group size, and other details to meet the specific needs and interests of the private group.

Are Food and Drink Options Available During the Tour?

No, food and drink options are not provided during the tour. Participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the stops. There are no planned meal or refreshment breaks included in the tour itinerary.

How Experienced Is the Tour Guide in Leading Walking Tours?

The tour guide is a highly experienced, 5-star rated professional who leads engaging and informative walking tours with a focus on the city’s history, art, and architecture. Travelers consistently praise the guide’s expertise and storytelling abilities.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t currently offer any discounts or special offers, but customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Sum Up

The "Walkin With Colin: Chicago Tour Du Jour" provides an enriching exploration of Chicago’s iconic landmarks. Visitors will discover Chagall’s mesmerizing mosaic, admire the Marquette Building’s historic architecture, and marvel at Calder’s striking Flamingo sculpture. The tour culminates at the magnificent Chicago Cultural Center, where participants can enjoy the city’s vibrant art and heritage. This engaging walking tour offers an unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: