Chicago’s Magnificent Churches
February 2 June 7 September 6 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Join architectural expert Thomas O’Gorman on visits to three Chicago churches. With two churches to be decided, the tour starts at the historic Second Presbyterian Church, located in the city’s Prairie Avenue Historic District. Its Arts and Crafts interior, featuring Tiffany glass windows and Frederic Clay Bartlett murals, represents one of Chicago’s finest examples of architect Howard van Doren Shaw’s work.

Photography by Martin Cheung, Courtesy of Friends of Historic Second Church.

Great Cemeteries of Chicago  
June 7 July 19 August 9
September 13  10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Venture to the city’s North Side to visit grand cemeteries. Historian Albert Walavich highlights the stunning architecture and art found in these final resting places of Chicago’s social leaders, politicians, business leaders and everyday citizens. Comfortable shoes are recommended due to extensive walking. A box lunch is included on each tour. (Note cemeteries to be visited on specific dates in box below.)

The Great Chicago Fire
May 31 October 11 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 is among American history's most celebrated disasters. Travel the fire's route with historian Albert Walavich. Uncover the myths and facts. Commence at the former site of Mrs. O’Leary’s homestead, today's Chicago Fire Academy. Continue to the Historic Water Tower landmark, the only public building to survive the fire. End at the Chicago History Museum. See a brief slide presentation and view the museum’s permanent Great Chicago Fire exhibit.

Greek Chicago
March 29 November 1 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Community experts Faye and Harold Peponis put the history, customs and religion of Chicago’s Greek citizens into perspective on this fascinating tour. At Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, explore the Greek Orthodox religion. Enjoy a private tour and discussion at the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum. Savor lunch in Greek Town before visiting the Hellenic Museum and Cultural Center.

Literary Chicago                                                     
August 2 October 18  10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Discover fascinating stories surrounding well-known authors, playwrights and poets. Hear how Chicago and its neighborhoods inspired their art. Noted Chicago historian Albert Walavich leads a short tour at the Fine Arts Building on South Michigan Avenue before touring neighborhoods that highlight the city’s influence on these notable writers.

Polish Chicago
March 15 August 23 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Join guide Jan Lorys, the Polish Museum of America’s executive director, to learn why Polish immigrants flocked to Chicago. For a tour and discussion, visit St. John Cantius Catholic Church built in 1893. Travel along Milwaukee Avenue to see the “Polish Triangle,” and break for lunch in a recently established Polish neighborhood. Close with a guided tour and discussion at the Polish Museum of America, with time to explore on your own.

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

Accompany ethnic food guide Evelyn Thompson on this unique and popular tour of several Chicago restaurants. Taste a variety of ethnic foods and desserts. Sort out the differences, similarities and preparations of entrées and more. Restaurant and dessert destinations change every two months.

Threads of Ireland
March 1 September 27  10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Chicago’s Irish citizenry played a vital role in early American history. Join author Tom O’Gorman for an exploration of Irish Chicago. The Near North Side Holy Name Cathedral and Holy Family Church located on the Near West Side are included. Drive through the historically Irish Bridgeport neighborhood to understand why Irish immigrants settled in the area. Conclude with a tour at the Irish American Heritage Center.

The White City
February 16 March 8 April 19
May 17 June 21 July 26 August 23 September 27 October 25
10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Relive the excitement of the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition, which brought 27 million visitors to Chicago to marvel at "The White City." Noted historian and guide, Bill Hinchliff, Diane Dillon or Albert Walavich, begins with a fascinating narration and photographic slide presentation at the Chicago Cultural Center. Travel to the original fairground, Jackson Park, stopping at Wooded Island, the Statue of the Republic and other related sites along the way. Visit the Chicago History Museum at tour's end.