Tours

The Ultimate Guide to Guided Tours

elcome to Chicago, a city steeped in history, culture, and vibrant energy. This article will explore the variety of guided tours available in the Windy City, providing insights into the best ways to explore and experience everything this bustling metropolis has to offer. Whether you are interested in walking tours, culinary experiences, or historical explorations, Chicago’s guided tours provide an intimate and informative way to uncover the city’s hidden gems and iconic landmarks.

Types of Tours Available

Chicago offers an extensive range of guided tours, each providing unique perspectives on the city’s rich heritage and modern attractions. Below are some of the most popular types of tours, along with specific examples and details.

Walking Tours

Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise

Contact: 111 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
What It Offers: An in-depth look at Chicago’s iconic skyscrapers and historic buildings from the Chicago River. Expert guides explain the history and design of over 40 landmarks.
Unique Feature: Award-winning tour known for its detailed architectural insights.

Chicago Food Planet Tours

Contact: 1515 N Fremont St #202, Chicago, IL 60642
What It Offers: Culinary walking tours through neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Chinatown, sampling local delicacies and learning about Chicago’s diverse food culture.
Unique Feature: Combines food tastings with cultural and historical anecdotes.

Chicago Haunted Tours

Contact: 600 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
What It Offers: Nighttime walking tours exploring the city’s haunted sites and spooky legends. Guides share eerie stories and historical facts.
Unique Feature: Focus on Chicago’s haunted history, perfect for thrill-seekers.

Bus Tours

Big Bus Chicago

Contact: 98 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
What It Offers: Hop-on, hop-off bus tours covering major attractions like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Unique Feature: Flexible schedule with multiple stops for convenience.

Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.

Contact: 4400 W 45th St, Chicago, IL 60632
What It Offers: Guided tours on double-decker buses with open-top views of the city. Covers historical sites and popular neighborhoods.
Unique Feature: Open-top buses for an unobstructed view of the skyline.

Gray Line Tours

Contact: 17 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603
What It Offers: Comprehensive city tours focusing on history, architecture, and key landmarks.
Unique Feature: Professional guides providing detailed historical context.

Adventure Tours

Urban Kayaks

Contact: 435 E Chicago Riverwalk, Chicago, IL 60601
What It Offers: Guided kayak tours on the Chicago River, offering a unique perspective of the city’s architecture and waterfront.
Unique Feature: Active and adventurous way to explore the city.

Bobby’s Bike Hike

Contact: 540 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611
What It Offers: Guided bike tours covering various themes like Lakefront neighborhoods and historical highlights.
Unique Feature: Combines fitness with sightseeing.

Chicago Segway Tours

Contact: 505 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611
What It Offers: Fun and informative Segway tours through Grant Park, Museum Campus, and other scenic areas.
Unique Feature: Easy and novel way to explore large areas quickly.

Culinary Tours

Chicago Pizza Tours

Contact: 27 N Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
What It Offers: Guided tours focusing on Chicago’s famous pizzerias, from deep-dish to artisanal slices.
Unique Feature: Exclusive access to kitchens and chef interactions.

Tastebud Tours

Contact: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
What It Offers: Tours sampling Chicago’s iconic foods, including hot dogs, Italian beef, and sweet treats.
Unique Feature: Focus on the city’s signature dishes and food history.

Chicago Beer Experience

Contact: 1800 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
What It Offers: Guided tours of local breweries and bars, including tastings and history of Chicago’s beer scene.
Unique Feature: Perfect for craft beer enthusiasts.

Historical Tours

Chicago History Museum Tours

Contact: 1601 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
What It Offers: Tours exploring significant historical sites and stories of Chicago’s past.
Unique Feature: Expert historians as guides.

Al Capone’s Chicago

Contact: 600 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
What It Offers: Tours focusing on the Prohibition era and the city’s infamous gangster history.
Unique Feature: Visit sites associated with Al Capone and other notable figures.

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio Tour

Contact: 951 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302
What It Offers: Guided tours of Wright’s home and studio, exploring his life and architectural innovations.
Unique Feature: Insight into the work of one of America’s greatest architects.

Pricing

Pricing and Booking Information

Pricing:

Walking Tours: $25 – $50 per person
Bus Tours: $30 – $60 per person
Adventure Tours: $40 – $80 per person
Culinary Tours: $50 – $100 per person
Historical Tours: $30 – $70 per person

Booking:

Online: Most tours can be booked through their official websites.
Travel Agent: Some tours can be booked through local travel agencies.
On-Site: Many tours offer on-site registration, but booking in advance is recommended.

Cancellation Policies:

General Rule: Most tours offer full refunds if canceled at least 24-48 hours in advance.
Fees: Late cancellations may incur a fee.

What to Expect

Preparation:

Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. Bring rain gear if necessary.
Gear: For adventure tours, gear like helmets or life vests is usually provided.
Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and sun protection.

Physical Demands:

Walking Tours: Moderate walking, suitable for most fitness levels.
Adventure Tours: Varies; kayaking and biking require some physical effort.
Accessibility: Check with the tour provider for specific accessibility options.
Age Restrictions: Some tours may have age limits or restrictions.

Benefits of Guided Tours

Local Knowledge: Guides provide in-depth knowledge and insider tips.
Convenience: Transportation and itineraries are planned out, making it hassle-free.
Exclusive Access: Some tours offer behind-the-scenes access and special experiences.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Informative: Learn about the city’s history and culture from experts.
Convenient: All logistics handled by the tour provider.
Unique Experiences: Access to areas and insights not available to independent travelers.

Cons:

Less Flexibility: Fixed schedules and itineraries.
Time Constraints: Limited time at each location.

Safety and Comfort

Safety Measures:

Adventure Tours: Life vests, helmets, and safety briefings.
General: Follow the guide’s instructions and stay with the group.

Comfort Tips:

Bring Essentials: Water, snacks, and sun protection.
Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

Final Thoughts

Guided tours offer a fantastic way to explore Chicago, providing valuable insights and convenience. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or cuisine, there’s a tour for you. Check availability, book your tour, and get ready to discover the best of Chicago. Happy touring!

Chicago