Fab Finds Walking Tour In Chicago's Fine Arts Building: Uncover Architectural Marvels
4.9
11 Ratings
Chicago
Embark on a time travel journey to uncover Chicago's best-kept secret – a 125-year-old architectural marvel in the Fine Arts Building. Join us for an unforgettable adventure into the past and witness the living testament to Solon Spencer Beman's architectural prowess.
Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Fine Arts Building - Embark on an enthralling exploration of Chicago’s Fine Arts Building, a ten-story treasure trove brimming with artistic souls. This building is a sanctuary where artists such as painters, photographers, music teachers, architects, attorneys, luthiers, and booksellers converge to shape their aspirations.

As we meander through the captivating corridors that have stood the test of time since 1898, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. The building’s rich narrative and the fascinating tales of this sanctuary for artists will be unveiled. Learn about its origins, stemming from the relocation of the former Studebaker Brothers Carriage Company Showroom in 1896.

While other landmarks in Chicago might boast more meticulously restored exteriors, the Fine Arts Building distinguishes itself, maturing like a distinguished vintage, embodying the very soul of artistic expression. Come and honor the everlasting zeal and persistent dedication of Solon Spencer Beman, the visionary architect who gave this magnificent edifice its life.

What's Included
  • History of the Fine Arts Building
  • Architectural significance of Solon Spencer Beman
What's Not Included
  • Tipping and Gratuities
Additional Information

Embark on a journey through time to discover Chicago’s best hidden treasure - a significant architectural wonder that’s been standing for 125 years. This extraordinary edifice was dreamt up and designed by renowned architect Solon Spencer Beman, the brain behind the town of Pullman and the iconic Pullman Palace Car Company. Prepare yourself to be transported through the annals of time and history as you delve into the remarkable legacy of this architectural powerhouse and the intriguing tales hidden within its historic walls. We invite you to be a part of this thrilling exploration of past times and experience firsthand the living proof of Beman’s architectural finesse.

  • Operated by Doorways Of Chicago
Location
410 S Michigan Ave
South Michigan Avenue
The tour will begin with a short tour of the new showroom and gallery of Doorways Of Chicago and Fab Finds, located on the fourth floor, suite 424, of the Fine Arts Building.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(11 Ratings)
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Travel92199
Apr 23, 2024
Building steeped in history - Ronnie's enthusiasm for the subject matter, the building and its history, was palpable. He kept us moving through both the history and the building. Plenty to uncover and experience. Clearly could be an even longer tour but Ronnie has done a great job in curating the stops and stories.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tmazionsmith
Apr 21, 2024
An awesome tour! - This is one of the best tours I’ve taken when visiting Chicago. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but there was so much interesting history covered that I was completely enthralled. Didn’t expect to learn so much about famous former tenants - if any history buff is at all intrigued by the tour description, just book it.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Williamrb3713lg
Apr 13, 2024
Amazing tour - Ronnie really knows this building! He gave an amazing tour! A lot of stairs and light give this building a certain flair. Everyone from Frank Loyd Wright to Norman Rockwell worked in this building! Same architecture as Pullman, Illinois.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
D2098pckathyw
Apr 11, 2024
Fascinating tour - I learned about so many amazing artists, all with their own fascinating histories, who were tenants in the Fine Arts Building. Fascinating to see all of the hand done work on everything from plaster/marble walls to Ustinov made floor tiles. Ronnie is a delight and so passionate about all of the details in this building.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
T54ixkn
Mar 28, 2024
Exploring the beauty & history of the Fine Arts Building. - What a great tour! So much history in this building and Ronnie makes sure we didn't miss anything important. He dives into the artistic beauty, along with the amazing history. We even got to ride the manual operated elevator. Loved the entire experience!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Briansh5674lb
Feb 24, 2024
Must see Hidden Gem of Chicago! - Thoroughly enjoyed this insider look at a true gem of Chicago! Robbie led us to special places within the building and was knowledgeable about details of noteworthy past tenants. Special stops included the Studebaker Theatre and a stringed instrument manufacturer... amazing behind-the-scenes looks and info!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Zoilapianista
Feb 22, 2024
It was an amazing 🤩 walking tour - I was so happy to booked this tour. Ronnie was amazing a lot of knowledge and this tour has a pluse we went to a violin’s 🎻 factory 🏭 It was an amazing experience. I will comeback for mor tours. Highly recommended. Thank you Ronnie 🫶🏽🤗
Review provided by Tripadvisor
59deannav
Feb 2, 2024
A hidden treasure in plain sight on Michigan Ave - I can’t count the number of times that I exclaimed, “Come on,” at what we saw and learned. A complete gem of a building, both in terms of architecture and history. Ronnie is knowledgeable and a great storyteller. We enjoyed visiting artist studios, including an impromptu visit to a luthier on the fifth floor. Excited to learn about second Fridays and looking forward to visiting again!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jbomb
Jan 23, 2024
Great Tour! Amazing Tour guide! - Outstanding. Incorporated history, architecture, and art to provide a great overview of the building and it's place in Chicago lore. Ronnie is very friendly and well-informed. I'll be back soon!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Karenericson
Apr 15, 2024
Fine Arts Building Visit - Loved the building. It was a bit difficult to keep the group together. Frustrating for people who arrived early as instructed and then had to wait for the latecomers.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 8 guests
1 Adult
May 2024
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