Come explore the historical layers of architecture in Helsinki! Chicago-based Gayle McKeen guides both locals and visitors through different areas of the city on architecture-themed walking tours.
Gayle McKeen is an experienced guide who holds a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Chicago. She has taught at universities in the United States and the United Kingdom. With a deep love for architecture and roots in Finland, McKeen has led hugely popular tours in Helsinki since 2017.
Schedule
Friday 25 July 2025 at 13:00–14:30
Architecture of Historical Helsinki
Saturday 26 July 2025 at 11:00–12:30
Architecture of Ullanlinna
Wednesday 13 August 2025 at 11:00–12:30
Architecture of Ullanlinna
Friday 15 August 2025 at 17:00–18:30
Modern Helsinki
Wednesday 27 August 2025 at 16:00–17:30
Architecture of Ullanlinna
Participation
A separate booking is required for each walk via our event platform. Tickets are paid for in advance through our online store and bookings are binding.
Please show the booking confirmation email to the guide before the tour begins.
Price: €15 / person
Duration: 90 minutes
Language: English
Architecture of Historical Helsinki
On this tour, you’ll discover what makes Helsinki the city it is today. As we explore remarkable buildings that reflect the city’s rich history, we’ll also dive into Finland’s past, its key figures, and the building materials and techniques that have shaped Helsinki.
The walk starts at the Architecture & Design Museum’s D-building (former Design Museum building, Korkeavuorenkatu 23, 00130 Helsinki) and ends at the Central Railway Station (Kaivokatu 1, 00100 Helsinki). Duration approx. 1 hour 30 minutes.
Modern Helsinki
This tour looks at the aesthetics, materials, and social context that influenced the development of modern architecture in Helsinki from the 1930s to 2018. You’ll explore fascinating downtown buildings such as offices, department stores, schools, and other public institutions.
The walk starts at the Architecture & Design Museum’s D-building (former Design Museum building, Korkeavuorenkatu 23, 00130 Helsinki) and ends in the city center. Duration approx. 1 hour 30 minutes.
Architecture of Ullanlinna
This walk focuses on the urban planning behind two of Helsinki’s most beautiful neighborhoods, known for their parks and colorful Art Nouveau residential buildings. The route leads to the scenic shoreline of Ullanlinna and continues into the Eira district.
The walk starts at the Architecture and Design Museum’s D-building (former Design Museum building, Korkeavuorenkatu 23, 00130 Helsinki) and ends at Eira Hospital (Laivurinkatu 29, 00150 Helsinki). Duration approx. 1 hour 30 minutes