Chicago, the Center of American Architecture

Chicago is known as the center of American architecture. Many historically important buildings are in the downtown area, representing an evolution towards the skyscrapers of today. Your guide, Cathy Holleb, would like to highlight some of these buildings found in the downtown area. There's lots to see and many stories that she would like to share with you! The downtown area is referred to as the Loop because of the cable car which looped around it. Today the "L" or the elevated train is an important means of transportation around the Loop and into and out of the city. The unseemly tracks above the streets and the screech of the train cars are part of the charm. It is impossible not to notice the "L" as you walk through downtown! For an urban adventure, there is a quiz question at each of the stops. The answers can be found at the stop called "Tying the Knot".