Chicago’s magnificent architecture is one of the main reasons for the worldwide fame of Windy City. It is among the primary incentives to visit the megapolis on Lake Michigan in the first place. If you are on vacation, you will definitely have to check out the skyscrapers and landmark buildings. Being on a business voyage to Chicago, you can take a couple of hours break and get to the roof of some giant structures to enjoy the scenery. In this case, booking a VIP Chicago Limo tour can be a brilliant idea, especially if you are on a tight schedule.
Why is Windy City architecture so important?
You might have heard Chicago is called the “city of firsts.” Indeed, many things in the United States happened, occurred, or have been achieved right here for the first time. For example, the first building considered a skyscraper, was built in Windy City – the Home Insurance Building, which was completed in 1885 (and demolished about a half-century later). Chicago boasted the highest building in the world for 25 years, and it is still there to visit – we mean the Willis Tower, once known as Sears Tower. The Merchandise Mart was the largest building on the planet by floor area when it was constructed in the 1930s.
Windy City’s buildings are iconic not only in volume but in style, too. For instance, the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition boosted the revival of Neo-Classical architecture within the city and throughout the entire United States. Chicago stands out as a distinguished example of the modern construction concept, combining practical thinking with intriguing and sometimes extravagant aesthetics. We have UNESCO World Heritage objects here and a unique scenery you can’t see anywhere else.
Must-see landmarks – where do you have to go in Chicago?
Making a short list of the architectural gems by Lake Michigan that you can’t miss is a great challenge. There are dozens of buildings worth visiting, getting on top of, or at least seeing up close. On the other hand, you might not have the time for all the landmarks in Windy City, so let’s break it down to the most significant.
Wrigley Building & Tribune Tower
Inspired by Seville Cathedral in Spain, the Wrigley Building is undoubtedly among the most outstanding buildings in Chicago. Part of the Magnificent Mile, the giant structure overwhelms visitors not only with its size but also with its glaze—the white facade is all covered in terra cotta.
Just across North Michigan Avenue, you will find another downtown marvel – Tribune Tower. It was created after the local newspaper Chicago Tribune held a competition for the interior and exterior design of literally “the most beautiful building in the world” just one century ago. The Neo-Gothic skyscraper is definitely a must-see. While you can reach Tribune Tower from the Wrigley building in a couple of minutes of walking, the distance to other architectural landmarks in Chicago is greater, so you will need transportation. Relying on a limo driver can be a great pick for you in terms of convenience and comfort.
Willis Tower
It was previously known as Sears Tower. Built in 1973 and standing 1450 feet tall (110 stories), it opened a new era in skyscraper construction. More than 1.5 million people visit the Willis Tower every year to get to the Skydeck, the highest observation point in the USA. From the deck, you can see the whole city and tens of miles away. But it’s not the only option to enjoy Chicago scenery from above.
875 N. Michigan Ave.
Also known as John Hancock Center, the imposing skyscraper has an enchanting effect on tourists, not only because of its appearance. 875 N. Michigan Ave. welcomes visitors to its 360 Chicago observation deck, set exactly 1,000 feet above the ground. Here, you can enjoy a dazzling panoramic view of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. There is even a moving platform called Tilt just above the avenue and the Magnificent Mile.
Chicago Cultural Center
It’s not all skyscrapers in Windy City. Chicago Cultural Center is worth visiting not because it’s tall but because it’s beautiful — outside and inside. You will be amazed by the dome, almost 40 feet in diameter, made of more than 30,000 pieces of glass. The main attraction is Preston Bradley Hall, but you can also enter various exhibitions and learning labs. The best thing is that there are free guided tours open to visitors.
Don’t waste your precious time – rent a limo in Chicago
You can explore all these places and many more in a span of a few hours, but you need reliable transportation for the purpose. Booking Chicago limo service, whether it be a stretch limo or executive car service, you know that the ride can get you from point to point and wait while you enjoy the skyscraper view.If you want to make a tour straight from the airport, book O’Hare or Midway Airport Limo Service. It works the other way around, too—you have a couple of hours before leaving Chicago; why not get to know some of the architectural marvels and then go to the airport? If you use limousine service to O’Hare this way, you don’t need to worry—enjoy the landmarks, and then we will bring you to the plane on time. You can book in advance but don’t hesitate to ask if you have a last-minute wish to tour Chicago before departure.