Being a Chicago Tour Guide is more than just a job; it’s a passion for sharing the vibrant history and stunning architecture of this incredible city. At conduct.edu.vn, we believe in bringing you closer to the heart of Chicago, and who better to do that than a seasoned Chicago tour guide? We sat down with Alex Bean, Content Manager and Tour Guide at Chicago Detours and adjunct instructor at Harold Washington College, to get an insider’s perspective on what it means to guide visitors through the Windy City.
1. From Groupon to Guiding: How did you become a Chicago tour guide?
My journey to becoming a Chicago tour guide was a bit serendipitous. Amanda, the Founder and Executive Director of Chicago Detours, and I were in grad school together. I remember during an icebreaker, she asked me, “Are you from Michigan?” Being from Michigan, I was convinced she had some psychic abilities!
Fast forward six years, I was looking for a more fulfilling role after leaving a job at Groupon to supplement my teaching income. I saw an email from Amanda’s company about hiring Chicago tour guides. I had previously experienced their Loop Interior Architecture Walking Tour and absolutely loved it. My wife can attest to how much I talked about the tour afterwards. So, I applied, and now I get paid to share my knowledge and passion for Chicago every day.
2. Public vs. Private: What’s your favorite Chicago tour to lead?
Each Chicago tour has its own unique charm. The Historic Chicago Walking Bar Tour is undeniably the most lively and fun. For sheer information depth, the Architecture Walking Tour for Design Lovers is unmatched. The 1893 World’s Fair Tour is incredibly immersive and atmospheric. However, the Loop Interior Architecture Walking Tour holds a special place for me. Having led it hundreds of times, I still get a thrill out of sharing its stories, throwing in some dad jokes, and highlighting the hidden architectural gems within the Loop. I truly believe it’s our most rewarding Chicago tour.
3. Exploring Beyond Downtown: What’s your favorite private Chicago tour?
When it comes to private Chicago tours, the Chicago Neighborhoods and Cultural Diversity Bus Tour is my top pick. I’ve guided this tour for diverse groups, from elementary school kids to senior citizens, and it resonates with everyone. Driving through neighborhoods as distinct as Prairie Avenue and Bridgeport and sharing their unique histories is a privilege. I even had the opportunity to research and write a custom version that explored the North Side, including my own neighborhood. Discovering the Kashubian community in Lakeview was a fascinating surprise!
4. Architectural Marvels: Favorite building downtown and beyond for tour guests?
Aesthetically, downtown Chicago boasts incredible Art Deco masterpieces like the Board of Trade and the Carbide and Carbon Buildings. While New York might be more famous for Art Deco, I think these two are equally stunning and iconic symbols of Chicago architecture.
Outside of downtown, although it’s a bit outside typical Chicago tours, the Mansueto Library at the University of Chicago is a personal favorite. Its futuristic design and the interactive element of guests figuring out the book storage system make it a unique and engaging site. The Ba’hai House of Worship, while not on a standard tour route, also deserves a mention for its breathtaking beauty.
5. Lost Landmarks: A demolished Chicago building you wish still stood?
This is a tough question, and one I’ve pondered often! Choosing just one demolished Chicago building is difficult.
I’m torn between Louis Sullivan’s magnificent Garrick Theater and the grand old Federal Courthouse. Sullivan’s intricate details at the Garrick, combined with its spacious interior, must have been extraordinary. And while I appreciate the current Federal Center and Mies van der Rohe’s work, the old Federal Building exuded a breathtaking charm. It managed to be both immense and elegant, with a touch of shabbiness that I find incredibly appealing.
6. Guiding Highlights: What’s your best memory as a Chicago tour guide?
Choosing a single “best” memory as a Chicago tour guide is nearly impossible, as there have been so many rewarding moments.
- The immense satisfaction of leading my very first tour without any major mishaps.
- Walking a group into the Chicago Temple and hearing a woman exclaim, “Oh, I got married here!”
- Descending the steps to Lower Michigan Avenue and hearing a guest murmur in awe, “The depths!”
- Getting first graders to giggle at the simple fact that my name is “Mr. Bean.”
These moments, and countless others, make being a Chicago tour guide such a fulfilling experience.
7. Chicago in Words: A Chicago book or novel recommendation?
I’ve actually written several blog posts about my favorite Chicago books! For a captivating historical read, I highly recommend City of Scoundrels. It’s filled with dramatic events, fascinating personalities, and surprising twists. Mike Royko’s Boss is another essential read. While perhaps not entirely unbiased, Royko’s critical examination of Mayor Daley and the Chicago political machine is incredibly insightful and clearly well-researched. The Third Coast by Thomas Dyja is also a fantastic exploration of Chicago.
8. Further Reading: What’s next on your Chicago reading list?
I plan to delve into Sin the Second City, Nature’s Metropolis, or Death in the Haymarket soon. I also want to explore classic Chicago novels like The Man with the Golden Arm, The Adventures of Augie March, and So Big. And I’m intrigued by a new historical fiction novel, Make Me a City, which seems right up my alley.
9. Beyond the Windy City: What’s your second-favorite city?
I confess I need to travel more! But for now, my vote goes to London. Being in such a historically rich and significant city was awe-inspiring. Standing among actual Roman walls, seeing Queen Elizabeth I’s tomb, or being near locations associated with Jack the Ripper and Shakespeare – it was truly mind-blowing for a history enthusiast like myself.
10. Neighborhood Dreams: A Chicago neighborhood or suburb you’d like to explore more?
I’d love to explore Pullman or Riverside more deeply. Both are fascinating examples of how Americans grappled with societal conflicts in the 19th century – labor vs. capital, urban vs. rural, idealism vs. practicality, race relations. These are issues that still resonate today. These communities, conceived by ambitious men with grand visions, attempted to resolve these conflicts, albeit unsuccessfully in many ways. Their stories and failures continue to echo in our present.
11. Local Flavors: Favorite local brewery or distillery?
Two Brothers! While I appreciate other local breweries, I can’t understand why Domaine DuPage isn’t the quintessential Chicago beer. It’s rich and malty, yet not heavy. Most importantly for me, it’s not overly hoppy! In a world of hop-centric beers, the malty deliciousness of French Country Ale reigns supreme.
