The Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) was founded in 1966 as the Chicago Architecture Foundation to save the historic Glessner House. Since then, the CAC has grown to become one of the largest cultural organizations in Chicago. Visit the CAC to view our 4,250-building scale model of Chicago, shop in our award-winning store or participate in a fun family event in our ArcelorMittal Design Studio.
On the Chicago Model, view more than 4,200 buildings in one spectacular room at the cinematic and interactive Chicago City Model Experience.
At the Chicago Gallery learn how Chicago became the "city of architecture," with a look at its fascinating neighborhoods, housing styles and famous architects.
As a certified nonprofit, all CAC ticket purchases directly support our education efforts and community engagement projects.
Tour Options
Chicago Architecture Center Exhibits Admission
Itinerary
Admission included
Your voucher grants you access to two floors of imaginative exhibits at Chicago's newest cultural destination - Chicago Architecture Center! Print the voucher or present it to box office staff on mobile device within 60 days of purchase.
Highlights
Admission ticket
What's included
Included
Admission ticket
Not included
Storage for luggage, strollers, or coats
Guided Tour
Food or drink
Traveller Ratings
4.4
81 reviews
5
54
4
16
3
1
2
6
1
4
Important Information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Hours of operation are subject to change without notice.
Final admissions are 30 minutes before closing time.
Exhibit content is subject to change without notice.
Pets are not allowed.
Food and drink are not allowed in the exhibit space.
Coat check and storage for luggage or strollers is not available.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Chicago Architecture Center Exhibits Admission take?
Chicago Architecture Center Exhibits Admission lasts about 45 min–1h. The itinerary has 1 stop.
How much does Chicago Architecture Center Exhibits Admission cost?
Prices start at $15 per person for this Chicago experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Can I cancel Chicago Architecture Center Exhibits Admission for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller Coat check and storage for luggage or strollers is not available.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchair accessible Transportation options are wheelchair accessible All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Is Chicago Architecture Center Exhibits Admission worth it?
Travellers rate it 4.4 out of 5 across 81 verified reviews; it is run by Chicago Architecture Center. Most-mentioned highlights: Admission ticket.
Reviews(81)
C
clotildet988
August 11, 2026
First Lady River Cruise
My team actually took the First Lady River Cruise, which isn’t listed here, but our docent, Marisol Kelly, was procured by the Chicago Architecture Center. She was amazing—extremely knowledgeable and passionate about her partnership with the Chicago Architecture Center, as well as her genuine love for the city of Chicago. She made the experience especially engaging and memorable.
Operator response
Thank you for the wonderful review! We're so happy you and your team enjoyed the River Cruise and appreciate the 5 stars. we hope to see you again!
K
KingRichardtheLH
August 3, 2026
Great!
Awesome. Chris was great! We were introduced to multiple phases of Chicago architecture.
Operator response
Thank you for the great review! We're so happy you enjoyed exploring Chicago with us and hope to see you again the next time you visit!
C
Cathy_L
July 9, 2026
Very detailed and...
Very detailed and provided great info on the impact of buildings on birds and how architects have improved the situation with glass and building modifications. Also the permanent exhibit was excellent.
M
margiemom1
July 3, 2026
Skip!
Maybe a tour is better but I don’t see how. There was literally almost nothing to see there. I can’t believe they charge for this center!
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U19PGrichardt
June 15, 2026
Legacy of Northalsted
Had a great time on the Legacy of Northalsted tour with Rene! He does a fantastic job weaving together architecture, neighborhood history, and the rich history of Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community in a way that’s engaging and easy to follow. I learned so much about how Northalsted became one of the Chicago’s proudest LGBTQ+ neighborhoods saw places I’ve walked by for years in a whole new light. Highly recommend this tour for both locals and visitors! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Operator response
Thank you for the terrific review! We are delighted that you enjoyed the Legacy of Northalsted tour and appreciate the 5 stars. We hope to see you again the next time you visit Chicago!
3
301chaseh
May 1, 2026
Awesome
Chris is the best whole tour was lit heck yeah
Operator response
Lit tours are our specialty. 🔥 We’re thrilled you had such a great tour and appreciate the 5 stars!
W
watsonnat
April 12, 2026
Excellent to our well worth the money
We had an excellent tour guide Emily. Learned lots on the tour of the architecture along the river. She was most knowledgeable. It was a beautiful sunny day and the boat was perfect.
2
217sheldond
February 14, 2026
Historical treasures
Charles gave a very good tour. As a former city planner, he was knowledgeable and had a few anecdotes along the way.
Operator response
Thank you for the fantastic review! We're so happy you enjoyed the Historic Treasures tour and hope to see you again!
T
Tour13872975761
February 13, 2026
A Must-do CAC Chicago's Golden Age Tour
Had an excellent Treasures of Chicago's Golden Age tour with Charles through the Chicago Architectural Center. Highly recommend this tour for a great overview of some of Chicago's great buildings. Our guide added quite a few additional spots along the way.
Operator response
Thank you for the great review! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed the Treasures of Chicago’s Golden Age tour and found it to be a strong overview of some of the city’s most iconic buildings. We’re glad the route offered even more highlights along the way. We appreciate the recommendation and hope to welcome you on another CAC tour soon!
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gregbA5813BD
January 14, 2026
Be sure to take the "Modernism: Reviving the Loop" tour at the Chicago Architecture Center
This tour was entertaining and informative. We learned a lot about major architectural themes and trends but also discovered many intriguing details about some of Chicago's most fascinating buildings. Tour guide Michelle Pittman was great. She spoke clearly, kept up a good pace, and was very interactive--taking our questions and sharing her extensive knowledge all along the way.
Operator response
Thank you for the terrific review! We're so happy you enjoyed the Modernism tour with Michelle and appreciated her knowledge, pacing, and personality. We hope to see you on more tours soon!
