If you love learning about the history of the 1893 World’s Fair, are passionate about Chicago architecture, enjoy puzzles, and want to stretch your legs, then head to the Chicago Loop for “Glitz, Glamour…and Panic! A Hunt for the History of 1893 in Chicago.”

Atlas Obscura Chicago Field Agent Patti Swanson is once again hosting her “Google-proof” scavenger hunt in the Chicago Loop on Friday, April 26, 2019. You will meet on the steps of the Art Institute of Chicago (née World’s Congress Auxiliary Building), next to Edward Kemeys’ lions, where Patty will hand your team a set of clues built around this scenario:

“Somehow Chicago misplaced all the records of its most legendary year, and it’s up to some brave and devoted Atlas Obscura Society mischief makers to hunt them down. For this mission, grab a friend and take on the tasks as a two-person team, or test your mettle solo—either way, this epic hunt promises to send you scavenging through Chicago’s most lavish Loop buildings. Along the way, you’ll discover the city’s historic trials, triumphs, and tribulations of 1893.” Teams then depart to independently discover the answers to her clues spread around the Chicago Loop.

We had a great time on her scavenger hunt a while back. Knowledge of Chicago and World’s Fair history enabled us to find the buildings without too much trouble, but finding the specific object of the clues–usually a plaque or image that we had to identify–was a fun challenge. The final clue reunited all the teams in a splendid (and appropriate) location for a drink and enjoyable conversation among participants.

Here are some tips: (1) don’t panic! (It’s not really 1893), (2) wear comfortable walking shoes, (4) have your cell phones charged, and (4) be prepared to learn something new about 1893 Chicago!

The hunt runs from 7-9 pm. Tickets costs $35 per person, or $68 for a a team of 2, and can be purchased here.

[See our EVENTS CALENDAR for other 1893 World’s Fair events.]

The Chicago Loop around the turn of the (last) century.