Chicago isn’t just a city; it’s an open-air museum of architectural genius. And if you’re anything like me—someone who prefers slow discovery over packed group tours—you’ll love this self-guided walking route through some of Chicago’s most iconic buildings. Even better, many of the interiors are open to the public, quiet, and beautiful. You can step inside, admire the details, and never feel rushed.

Here’s a walking route I personally take visitors on—it’s full of jaw-dropping interiors and design history, all packed within a few city blocks.

🗺️ The Self-Guided Indoor Architecture Walk

1. Marquette Building Lobby (140 S Dearborn St)

Start your walk at the Marquette Building, an 1895 masterpiece of the Chicago School. Its mosaic lobby tells the story of Father Marquette and the early European exploration of Illinois—it’s quiet, peaceful, and almost spiritual in its storytelling.

Pro tip: Step inside and take your time. Most visitors don’t realize it’s open to the public.

2. Field Building / 135 S LaSalle St

Cross Clark Street and enter the Field Building—also known as 135 S LaSalle. This Art Deco gem is sleek and dramatic, with dark marble and metallic details that pull you back to the 1930s. It’s a hidden treasure that rarely makes tourist lists.

3. LaSalle Street Canyon

As you exit, continue south along LaSalle Street. This corridor is flanked by imposing early-20th-century skyscrapers and has often been used in films (like The Dark Knight) because of its cinematic symmetry. Take a moment to look north—you’ll feel like you’re in Gotham.

4. The Rookery Building (209 S LaSalle St)

Step into this Burnham and Root masterpiece. The original design is stunning enough, but the lobby was later redesigned by Frank Lloyd Wright. The lightwell, ironwork, and interplay of natural light make it one of the most breathtaking interiors in the U.S.

Optional: If you’re curious, the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust offers tours of the upper levels.

5. Chicago Board of Trade Building (141 W Jackson Blvd)

Head south across Jackson to the towering Art Deco headquarters of the Chicago Board of Trade. The lobby is imposing, futuristic, and filled with rich materials like granite, limestone, and silver accents. One of the best examples of Art Deco design in the world.

6. Exit on Van Buren

End your walk by exiting the Board of Trade on Van Buren. Take a moment to look back up at the sculpture of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, perched on the building’s peak.

🎨 More to Explore in Chicago

If you want to extend your adventure beyond the skyscrapers:

• Millennium Park & Cloud Gate (The Bean) – Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also iconic.

• Museum Campus – Home to the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, and Shedd Aquarium.

• Lincoln Park Zoo & Nature Boardwalk – A peaceful retreat and free to visit.

• Pequod’s Pizza – A must for deep-dish pizza lovers.

🚗 Short Day Trips from Chicago (1–2 Hours Away)

If you’re ready to escape the city for a bit, here are some excellent ideas for a quick day trip. No party scenes—just art, nature, food, and a bit of history.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

A beautiful lake town with shops, trails, and boat rentals. Great for a summer escape or cozy fall walk.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

A charming city on Lake Michigan with great museums like the Milwaukee Art Museum (with its moving “wings” structure), the Harley-Davidson Museum, and lots of lakeside paths.

Devil’s Lake State Park, WI

Stunning hikes, especially the Devil’s Doorway Trail. Rugged rock formations and incredible views—one of the Midwest’s top outdoor gems.

🌳 Quick Getaways Near Detroit (If You’re Splitting Your Trip)

Ann Arbor, Michigan

A perfect small-city escape with museums, indie bookstores, cafes, botanical gardens, and a thriving arts scene. Very walkable, too.

The Henry Ford Museum (Dearborn, MI)

Don’t let the name fool you—this museum covers everything from the Wright Brothers to Rosa Parks and JFK’s presidential limo. Fascinating and vast.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to go far—or follow the crowds—to discover the best of Chicago and its surroundings. Whether you’re admiring Frank Lloyd Wright’s redesign inside The Rookery, or hiking the cliffs of Devil’s Lake, this area of the Midwest is full of hidden depth and character. And with a partner who loves art, food, music, and a little history? You’re in for a rich and meaningful trip.