Events

Come explore the architecture, artifacts and landscape of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair with us! After a comfortable bus ride to Chicago, begin the day at the Garden of the Phoenix, originally built as a gift to Chicago by the Japanese government. The Japanese garden is located on Wooded Island in Jackson Park, designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Next, enjoy lunch on your own in the Financial District before touring The Rookery, one of the most historically significant buildings in Chicago. Designed by famous architectural partners Burnham and Root, this enchanting building was originally completed in 1888, around the time Burnham was appointed chief of construction for the Chicago World’s Fair.

In the afternoon, enjoy a self-guided tour of the Field Museum and see if you can spot a few of the 2,000 items from the 1893 World’s Fair on display. Wrap up the day with a delicious dinner at iconic Chicago loop restaurant The Berghoff. When the World’s Fair came to Chicago in 1893, Herman Berghoff set up a stand in the Midway Plaisance and sold his beers to people entering and exiting the fair. His success led him to set up a more permanent home for German beer and cuisine. Fee includes transportation, docent-led tour of The Rookery, entrance to the Field Museum, dinner and all gratuities. Expect a fair amount of walking, standing and stairs. An optional pre-bus trip gathering will be held to discuss the book Devil in the White City, by Erik Larson.