MAKE BIG PLANS: Burnham Centennial - New Tour!
June 13 July 11 August 8 September 12
10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Happy 100th, 1909 Plan of Chicago! Through a formal presentation at the Chicago Cultural Center, and Harold
Washington Library’s special exhibit, you’ll grasp the genius that shaped city planning and Chicago history. Visit Northerly Island and Jackson, Burnham and Lincoln parks. Review Burnham and Bennett’s pioneering ideas for local thoroughfares and railroad traffic. A rendezvous at Burnham’s graveside makes a fitting epilogue.

Chicago’s Magnificent Churches  
February 7 July 25 November 7 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Immerse in the architectural splendor of the Prairie Avenue Historic District’s Second Presbyterian Church. An Arts and Crafts wonder, it’s one of Chicago’s finest examples of architect Howard van Doren Shaw’s work. The church’s Louis Comfort Tiffany windows are mounted in their original locations, forming the city’s largest such collection. This popular tour includes two to three additional churches, synagogues or temples (decided closer to the tour dates).

Great Cemeteries of Chicago  
June 13 July 11 August 15 
10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Arrive at Graceland Cemetery for a unique twist on defining moments and key players. View eye-catching architecture and art honoring Chicago leaders, politicians and everyday citizens, including architects Louis Sullivan and Daniel Burnham, retailer Marshall Field and hotelier Potter Palmer. At Rosehill’s vast Mausoleum, unearth little-known accounts, peer through awe-inspiring Tiffany windows and find opulent tombs. There’s extensive walking; wear comfortable shoes.

The Great Chicago Fire
May 9 October 3 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Separate myth from fact about one of the most recognized disasters in American history, the 1871 Great Chicago Fire. From the fire’s start, the former site of Mrs. O’Leary’s homestead, travel the inferno’s path through the Loop. Stop by the Historic Water Tower landmark, one of the only surviving public buildings. After lunch, it’s the Chicago History Museum for a slide presentation and a Great Chicago Fire exhibit tour.

Greek Chicago
March 14 November 7 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

On this excursion, community experts herald the fascinating history, customs and religion of Greek Chicagoans. The importance of the famed Jane Addams Hull-House to early Greek immigrants comes to light during a private tour and discussion. Then, the Hellenic Museum and Cultural Center chronicles their American experience. Savor lunch at a Greek restaurant before visiting Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral for an in-depth look at this religion.

Irish Chicago
March 7 October 10  10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Irish Chicago’s vital role, during early American history and since, comes alive at Holy Name Cathedral, the seat of Chicago’s Roman Catholic Church. Tour the city’s second oldest church, Holy Family (a survivor of the Great Chicago Fire). The traditionally Irish Bridgeport neighborhood provides the backdrop for exploring why Irish immigrants settled here. Following lunch at a local Irish pub, check out the lively Irish American Heritage Center.

Literary Chicago                                                     
October 17  10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Tease out tantalizing tales about well-known authors, playwrights and poets. Discoveries first unfold at the Chicago Cultural Center, the original Chicago Public Library (now a noted landmark) and a beaux-arts beauty. The plot thickens at the de facto headquarters for Chicago’s early 20th-century literary culture, the Fine Arts Building on South Michigan Avenue. Tread the same Chicago neighborhoods that served as the muse for many popular writers.

Polish Chicago
March 21 November 14 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Where’s the largest Polish population outside of Poland? Chicago! Experience it starting with St. John Cantius Catholic Church, whose spectacular Romanesque Baroque architecture makes it a community standout. As you veer along Milwaukee Avenue the “Polish Triangle” is revealed. Break for lunch before the
enjoyable guided tour and discussion at the Polish Museum of America. There’s ample time to roam on your own through this important cultural institution.

Taste of the Neighborhoods
Tour dates listed in box below 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Travel Chicago and savor cuisines from lands near and far. This delectable journey features two different restaurants serving assorted small-plate samplers. Taste the nuances; talk exotic ingredients, techniques and cultures; and collect recipes. Dessert or sweets on the last stop are the cherry on top. Destinations change every two months; restaurants are determined about three weeks before tour dates. Seats go quickly on this popular tour. Please call for details.

The White City
February 14 March 28 April 25
May 16 June 20 July 25 August 29 September 26 October 31 November 21 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

During the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, “The White City” enthralled 27 million visitors. You’re transported there through the photographic slide presentation at the Chicago Cultural Center. In Jackson Park, picture the fair’s hundreds of buildings, and see the Statue of the Republic and other original sites. After a bite, you’re off to the Chicago History Museum, where the elevated train that transported fairgoers to the exposition is displayed.