Prairie Avenue Walking Tour
“In the late nineteenth century, Prairie Avenue was the most exclusive street in Chicago. Nearly ninety mansions lined the six blocks from 16th to 22nd streets, including the homes of the city’s three wealthiest citizens – department store owner Marshall Field, meat packer Philip D. Armour, and sleeping car manufacturer George M. Pullman.
“Explore over two centuries of history – from the Battle of Fort Dearborn in 1812 through the neighborhood’s recent transformation into what is once again one of the most fashionable and desirable neighborhoods in Chicago.
“William Tyre, author of Chicago’s Historic Prairie Avenue, leads this two-hour walking tour which includes viewing the surviving mansions, sharing historic photos of the homes that have been lost, and an interior tour of the National Historic Landmark Second Presbyterian Church with its extraordinary Arts & Crafts sanctuary and collection of Tiffany windows.
Motor Row Walking Tour
“This walking tour down South Michigan Avenue explores what is considered the largest intact early “automobile row” in the U.S. At its peak in the early 20th century, more than 100 different makes of automobiles were being sold on Motor Row. Today, the revitalized stretch of street showcases more than sixty of the original showrooms in what is now considered the landmark Motor Row District, with stunning examples of elaborately molded terra cotta, ornate facades, and intricately scrolled ironwork designed by notable architects such as Holabird & Roche, Alfred Alschuler, Christian Eckstorm, Philip Maher, and Albert Kahn.
Shadows on the Street: Haunted Tours of Historic Prairie Avenue Walking Tour
“Tales of strange sounds, unexplained sightings, and untimely endings await as you explore Prairie Avenue after dark! During this one-hour walking tour through the Prairie Avenue Historic District, learn about the mystery surrounding the death of Marshall Field Jr., the tragic events that plagued the Philander Hanford house, the lingering ghost of Edson Keith, and more – if you dare!” (Glessner House)
Learn more and purchase tickets at the Glessner House website