Sometimes overshadowed by heavyweight neighbors the Art Institute of Chicago and Symphony Center, the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s ArchiCenter is just as informative and, arguably, more important to the documentation of the cultural contributions of our fair city. Start out by wandering through the center, filled with free exhibits that spotlight an important segment of Chicago's architectural history. Then take a hike with one of CAF's impressive walking tours, particularly the two-hour Modern Skyscrapers or Historic Skyscraper tours, which leave daily at 1 p.m. and cost a mere $15.

Check the schedule posted at the entrance or visit the foundation's website for a complete roster of offerings. And don’t be too hasty to write-off the tours as Loop-centric and tourist-filled. Walks around Logan Square, the century-old neighborhood of Beverly and the Graceland Cemetery provide a new look at both familiar and unfamiliar your stomping grounds.

Centerstage Reviewer: Stephanie Kuenn