Excursion

On Thursday afternoon, there are two concurrent excursions available. Participants and companions are welcome to choose between an architecturally focused guided walking tour of Chicago's historic south loop highlighting early skyscraper design, or a guided bicycle tour of the city's north side neighborhoods and beaches with views of the magnificent skyline.

After a short rest at the hotel, an evening social event is planned at Chicago's Adler Planetarium. Guests will be able to view exhibits, tour the Midwest's largest telescope accessible to the public, and gaze upon the city skyline lit up at night.

Register before May 15th to ensure your participation.

Bicycle Tour

Chicago is a City of Neighborhoods! Enjoy a fun, casual bicycle ride and urban safari highlighting distinctive Chicago residential architecture, sights such as beaches, lagoons, gardens, animals, and good times! Sights include Lakefront Trail & Beaches, Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory, North Avenue Beach, the Gold Coast, and Lincoln Park's luxurious tree-lined residences, parks & nature areas.

Walking Tour

Historic South: Rise of the Skyscraper Walking Tour

Chicago is not only the birthplace of the skyscraper, it is also where most of the innovations in early skyscraper design and technology originated! Take a step back in time to learn the stories behind some world famous early skyscrapers. Highlights include: Burnham and Root’s Rookery (1888) with its Moorish revival exterior and restored Frank Lloyd Wright interior; Adler and Sullivan’s Auditorium Building (1889) a masterpiece of engineering, design and acoustics; Holabird and Roche’s Marquette Building (1895) an outstanding example of the Chicago School of design; and Holabird and Root’s Chicago Board of Trade Building (1930), one of the city’s most glamorous Art Deco skyscrapers.

Adler After Dark

See the award-winning view of the Chicago skyline from the Adler Planetarium. Amble around the Adler's exhibitions or take in a sky or space show. See Saturn's rings or Jupiter's great red spot with your own eyes using the Adler's telescopes. Adler After Dark is the only time you can peek through the Doane Observatory telescope, the largest telescope in the Midwest accessible to the public. Cocktails and food will be available for purchase.