As a local, I highly recommend that any visitor to...

As a local, I highly recommend that any visitor to our city start off their exploration with a quick stop at the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC)!

While the CAC is the main hub for architectural enthusiasts (e.g. daily lectures, seminars, organized tours, etc.), it s the main exhibit hall and gallery which I recommend as a first stop for any new visitors prior to making the journey on foot either north up Michigan Avenue or west along the newly completed Chicago Riverwalk.

For a small fee, the proceeds of which help support the educational mission of this great nonprofit, you can gain access to the CAC gallery and exhibit hall located near the corner of E. Wacker & Michigan. Once inside, you ll have the opportunity to gain a crash course/tutorial on Chicago s history and the significance of the architecture you re about to experience on your journey about the city.

Make sure to watch the brief video presentation and checkout the massive scale model, as both are very impressive and a key part of the experience!

Trust me, if you start out your exploration here, you ll have a much better appreciation for the city around you. It s great for all ages whether you re an architectural scholar or clueless beginner, like me.

Of note, it s a good stop for those traveling alone and the gift shop is probably one of the better places to pickup a quality souvenir with many options sourced from local artists, businesses, and authors (unlike the cheap stuff you ll find at the Bye Bye Chicago stores located all along Michigan Avenue).

Disclosure: I have no affiliation, financial interest, or other conflict of interest pertaining to the CAC... just a bug fan, enjoy!