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Inside Tour of Chicago’s Fine Arts Building

20 Reviews 4.90 out of 5 stars Based on 20 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Chicago, USA
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from $45 per person

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Main doorway to the Fine Arts Building, virtually untouched as designed by Solon Spencer Beman, Circa 1885.
The Studebaker Theatre balcony.
The (very crooked) original elevator call buttons are still intact on the only manually operated elevators left in Chicago!
Original "up" & "down" indicator and floor indicator numbers
A Classic Greek Doric style doorway

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On average, this is booked 28 (0) days in advance.
60 to 90 minutes (approx.)
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Overview

Take a time travel journey inside Chicago's best-kept secret: a 125-year-old architectural marvel. This extraordinary building was envisioned by renowned architect Solon Spencer Beman, famous for designing the town of Pullman and the iconic Pullman Palace Car Company. Get ready to be transported through time and history as you explore the legacy of this architectural genius and the fascinating stories hidden within these hallowed walls. Join us for an unforgettable adventure into the past and witness the living testament to Beman's architectural prowess.

What's Included

  • History and Knowledge of the Fine Arts Building and Solon Spencer Beman
  • Tipping and Gratuities
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Fine Arts Building

Go on a captivating journey through Chicago's Fine Arts Building, a hidden gem of 10 enchanting floors filled with an array of creative spirits. You'll be immersed in a world where painters, photographers, music instructors, architects, lawyers, stringed instrument makers, and booksellers, come together to craft their dreams.We'll wander through a mesmerizing labyrinth of hallways that have been remarkably unchanged since 1898. It's a time travel experience as the rich history and captivating stories behind this artist's haven are unraveled. Discover how it came to life, due to the former Studebaker Brothers Carriage Company Showroom's relocation back in 1896.While other Chicago landmarks may showcase more perfectly restored facades, the F.A.B. stands apart, aging like a fine wine, preserving the essence of creativity itself. Join us in celebrating the timeless spirit and enduring passion of Solon Spencer Beman, the architect who breathed life into this stunning masterpiece.
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1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Operated by Doorways Of Chicago
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Inside Tour of Chicago’s Fine Arts Building?

A: This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded. This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

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Activity code: C-311960P5

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Reviews

4.90
20 reviews

Average 4.90 out of 5 stars based on 20 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
18
4 stars
2
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0

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On average, this is booked 28 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.

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Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Inside Tour of Chicago’s Fine Arts Building?
A:
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • History and Knowledge of the Fine Arts Building and Solon Spencer Beman.
The following is NOT included:
  • Tipping and Gratuities.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

The minimum age to participate is 18. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Inside Tour of Chicago’s Fine Arts Building is as follows:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Inside Tour of Chicago’s Fine Arts Building will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024

What's Included

Activity name

  • History and Knowledge of the Fine Arts Building and Solon Spencer Beman
  • Tipping and Gratuities

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Operated by Doorways Of Chicago
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers

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Non-refundable

Activity name

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

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