So, needless to say there are plenty of things to do in Chicago.
One in particular I'd like to write about is the Architectural boat tour which runs along the Chicago river and interprets more than 50 buildings.
This spectacular tour takes you on a journey through time from how this city was founded and became Americas most prominant crossroad and transport hub.
How the city resurrected and earned it's nickname as the 'Second City' after the great Chicago fire which happened in 1871 and leveled Chicago for over 3.3 square miles as architects from around the world rushed to Chicago to push boundaries and pioneered techniques in construction that set new heights in science and design. (pun intended)
There are plenty of companies who run this tour that usually goes on for 90 minutes, and costs about $40 per person, which isn't cheap but in my opinion totally worth it.
What you get out of it is a higher appreciation for Chicago, its history and its geniuses behind the artful redesign of this city that will stick with you as long as you stay here.
It's a relaxing boat cruise along the Chicago river which snakes through the city, allowing you to see more of it in detail in less time and effort, and if it's a beautiful day out then you can soak up some sun with cocktails in hand while expanding your knowledge - that's my kind of classroom!
I did this boat cruise very early into my visit, and even three months later I'm still finding myself appreciating the little details I've learnt of the different buildings and structures as I past them.
This tour starts up at spring and runs through the year until the river freezes, which is around about late December or early January. The best part is that these tours are lectured by volunteers, which means they have genuine passion for this city and its history, and aren't shy to show it off and impress visitors.
You'll learn about the rise of steel frame constructed buildings from the 1880's (also known as 'Chicago School' or 'Commercial style'), and frame tubes from the 1940's (also known as 'Chicago Second School') which allowed skyscrapers to reach new heights.
How having the (now compulsory) riverwalk changed the demand of real estate along the river that were once believed to be of lesser value, and
to how Chicago became the master and mecca for architects from all around the world.
If you're an architectural buff, you'll be pleased to hear names such as Louis Sullivan, Bertrand Goldberg, Graham, Anderson, Probst & White, and of course, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe being thrown around during the 90 minute lecture as you pass iconic buildings such as the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, Merchandise Mart, Lyric Opera, 333 W. Wacker, Marina City and many, many more.
Witness and learn how these architects went crazy with the gothic revival styles such as Neo Gothical, Neo Classical, Greek Revival, all the way to Art Deco and Modernism, pushing the limits then believed wasn't plausible.
So, enjoy the company, enjoy the ride, and enjoy taking pictures of these amazing structures from a view point which showcases Chicago at its finest.
You haven't been to Chicago until you've been on an architectural boat cruise!
(I also highly recommend First Lady Cruises which is ran by The Chicago Architecture Foundation who can be located at 112 East Wacker Drive, right underneath the bridge that leads to N. Michigan avenue.)
No comments:
Post a Comment