Tours

WALF members organize tours designed to deepen appreciation for both historic and contemporary Chicago architecture. Tours frequently feature buildings under construction or recently completed, led by architects involved in the project.

Tours are priced at $40 for non-members, $30 for members, and $15 for students.

Historic West Hutchinson St. Walking Tour

Outside 840 W. Hutchinson St.

When: Thursday, May 14th at 11 AM

This tour will be led by architect Cheron Stern, founder of Cheron Stern Architects, who specializes in renovations of historic properties and is a current resident of the street.

The Hutchinson Street Historic District is one of the most cherished enclaves on the north side of Chicago, in Uptown. Known for its rich history, storied architecture, lush landscapes and oversized lots, it represents one of the city’s best collections of residential Prairie-style design. A variety of architectural styles prevailed during the years West Hutchinson Street was developed between 1894 and 1918, including historical varieties such as Queen Anne, Romanesque and Classical Revival. Altogether, the homes along this street represents a unique capsule of history in American residential design and architecture. Inspirations of renowned architects such as George Maher who studied with Joseph Silsbee, alongside Frank Lloyd Wright and George Elmslie and influences of Louie Sullivan will be addressed along the tour. We will pass by gardens designed by Hoerr Schaudt and famous landscape architect Jens Jensen.

This tour will emphasize ornate architectural details, rich floral motifs in the art glass windows and doors, large limestone arches coupled with various styles of rooflines. In addition to the architectural tour, intriguing minutiae, facts, and gossip of the first-to-own residents along the street will be revealed.

Please note: There are no restroom facilities along the walking tour.

Parking: Limited free parking available in Buena Park neighborhood. Sheridan Red Line CTA stop. Accessible by CTA busses #135, #136, #146.

Lunch Ideas: Kleins Bakery/Cafe – 4155 N. Broadway
Bar on Buena – 910 W. Buena
Siam Noodles – 4142 N. Broadway
Michaels Pizza & Tavern 4091 N. Broadway

Architects – Continuing Education Units are available for this program. All money received for unused reservations will be donated to the WALF Scholarships.

For more information chicago.gov

Fill out the form below & make your ticket payment through the PayPal donation button or at the event.

Any questions? Email us at walfchicago@gmail.com


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Previous Tour: Church of the Holy Family & St. Ignatius College Prep (1080 W. Roosevelt Rd.)

Photos from Previous Tours


Our tours range from historical to contemporary. Six to seven tours are typically scheduled every year. Some previous locations have included:

150 North Riverside Building

GEMS World Academy Lower School

Shirley Ryan Ability Lab

The Apple Store and the Chicago Riverwalk

The Writer’s Theater in Glencoe

New McDonald’s Headquarters in Chicago

659 Wrightwood Exhibition Space

The Newberry Library

One Bennett Park

Second Presbyterian Church

The Old Chicago Post Office

Tribune Tower Residences

Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool and Lincoln Park Conservatory

Former Cook County Hospital Building

Ross Barney Architects Office

Northwestern Unity Kellogg School of Management Global Hub

O’Hare Airport 21 Project

Independence Library and  Senior Apartments