Two friends at The Bean in downtown Chicago.

Explore Chicago with a local

Discover Chicago's highlights and hidden gems with a friendly Chicagoan by your side. Learn more about our free Chicago Greeter program.

Discover Chicago Greeter

A group of travelers admires storefronts in the Chinatown neighborhood on a Chicago Greeter visit.

Greeter visits

Immerse yourself in our unique neighborhoods and downtown sights during a Chicago Greeter visit. These free visits are a great way to explore the city with the insider perspective of a friendly local. Learn more about Chicago Greeter and sign up for a free visit today.

A Greeter and two visitors near a fountain in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood.

Volunteer with Chicago Greeter

Becoming a Chicago Greeter requires no previous experience — just a passion for Chicago. We're always looking for friendly, knowledgeable locals to help welcome visitors from around the globe to Chicago. Find out how to become a Chicago Greeter for your favorite neighborhood.

Neighborhood Gems

Check out just a few of the unique sites and under-the-radar spots you can discover during a Chicago Greeter visit.

What people love about Greeter

We went around the city where Denise showed me not only some of the main landmarks of the city but also perks and views that only locals know about and that I would not have the chance to visit if it was not for her. Denise also describes the neighborhoods, buildings, history of the city and points for me to visit during my stay. It was excellent, thank you!
“Sofia was spectacular during our tour. She took us to new places and told us several facts that made our vision of Chicago even broader. We will definitely recommend it to all our friends who travel to Chicago. It was SENSATIONAL!”
“Jim was great. He had so much knowledge about the history of the city and the buildings. We had planned on walking some of the area he took us on by ourselves, but we would have missed so much and not learned nearly as much about the buildings, the people, the city as a whole.”
“Brian was fantastic! Our time with him was better than we could have expected. We used his restaurant suggestions for our entire stay. We learned information about the city that we would have never known . I have already recommended this service to friends and will definitely use it again myself.”
“In three weeks of being in Chicago, this was by far the greatest highlight. My tour and connection with Sharyne really elevated the experience and drove me to want to move to Chicago sooner than I’d planned to. I hope in the coming years I call this city home.”

This website uses cookies to ensure the best experience, which you consent to by clicking ‘Got It.’ Learn more about how we handle your personal data and rights by reviewing our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . By visiting chicagogreeter.com, you are consenting to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Chicago Traveler

Chicago Greeter Tours

Explore Chicago with a friendly, knowledgeable local tour guide for an insider’s look at the Windy City. With more than 200 enthusiastic volunteers waiting to share their passion and expertise, Chicago Greeter Tours is a great way to learn about the various aspects of the city including landmarks, eateries, shops, attractions and so much more.

Guests may be partnered with greeters from various backgrounds, walks of life and neighborhoods, ensuring that the experience is given from a unique, insider’s perspective. Visitors specify which neighborhoods they are interested in as well as their language preferences. Then they are matched with Greeters who can help them explore the city based on their special interests.

Visitors to Chicago and new residents will find that Greeter Tours provide them with something a bit less touristy and more off-the-beaten-path. It’s like having a new “friend” to help guests get the most out of their stay in Chicago. Chicago Greeter Tours has been a free service provided by Choose Chicago since 2002 for visitors to discover the unlimited potential that the city has to offer.

chicago greeter neighborhood tours

Types of Chicago Greeter Tours

Greeter Tours are comprised of a greeter and up to six visitors who gather at the Chicago Cultural Center to start their adventure. Tours may cover specific neighborhoods (more than 25 are available) as requested by the visitor and may be comprised of walking , buses or trains as required. Tours usually last for between 2 and 4 hours while Greeters share their information and knowledge about the city.

InstaGreeter Tours function for visitors who are making last minute plans. Those who want a spur-of-the-moment, quick perspective on the city can join in on a group without advanced notice. These groups meet seasonally at various areas of the city and last for just an hour at a time.

What You’ll See on a Chicago Greeter Tour

Each 2-4-hour greeter tour is different, based on specific interests and individualized knowledge of the Greeter as well as the desires of the visitors. Chicago has 77 distinct communities where locals provide free guided tours that include information about diverse cultural communities, hidden treasures, local landmarks, restaurants, and much more as neighborhoods are explored. From Greektown to Downtown, from Lincoln Park to Wicker Park , Chicago Greeters can guide visitors through the inner-workings of the city.

InstaGreeter impromptu tours are offered on weekends and provide on-the-spot, hour-long walking tours of downtown, Uptown and Hyde Park , depending on the season. These sites and landmarks may be included in the tour: 

  • Millennium Park and Cloud Gate sculpture—“The Bean”
  • Chicago Cultural Center
  • Chicago Riverwalk
  • Bridgehouse Museum Plaza
  • Michigan Avenue
  • Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain

Chicago Greeter Tours Services

Chicago Greeter Tours offers a free service to match visitors with guides who present sightseeing tours to the public. 

Chicago Greeter Tours Timing

Chicago Greeter Tours functions all throughout the year. Tours typically last between one and four hours and may be scheduled based upon individual needs and availability.

Chicago Greeter Tours Considerations

Things to know as you make use of Chicago Greeter Tours services:

  • To schedule a 2-4 hour guided visit of Chicago, register at least 10 business days in advance of the date of the tour.
  • Tours may be requested in more than 25 neighborhoods to cover over 40 different interest areas, including: family friendly, architectural highlights, foodie fun, ethnic Chicago and much more.
  • Greeter Tours can accommodate up to 6 guests.
  • Tours may combine walking, buses or trains to orient guests to the safety and efficiency of Chicago’s public transportation system.
  • For a last-minute booking, InstaGreeter services can offer a free hour-long guided walking tour of the downtown area on weekends. No registration is needed.
  • Greeter Tours depart from the Chicago Greeter desk in the Chicago Culture Center lob at 77 E Randolph Street.
  • Meeting places and times for InstaGreeter tours vary and can be found online.
  • Greeter Volunteers are provided with basic training, but their best qualities are how friendly and enthusiastic they are about their Chicago home.
  • Services are offered in 10 languages and covers more than 25 neighborhoods.
  • Tours are family friendly and may include children as accompanied by adults. Guests should let the greeter know upon registration that the tour should be family friendly.
  • Parking is available near Chicago Cultural Center in parking lots and garages. Spot Hero is a convenient way to find a nearby spot.

Book a Chicago Greeter Tour

Visitors must register online at least 10 business days in advance for a Greeter Tour. InstaGreeter Tours do not require advance booking.

Visitors must register online at least 10 business days in advance for a Greeter Tour. Online bookings show weekly availability including tour times as well as revealing tours that are already sold out. Pay for your tour in advance with a credit card and receive an email with all of the information you need about where and when tours meet as well as what to expect. InstaGreeter Tours do not require advance booking.

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Chicago Greeters offering free pop up neighborhood tours through 20 neighborhoods

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CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago Greeter program is celebrating its 20th anniversary by offering InstaGreeter Pop-Up Tours.

The series features free neighborhood walks through 20 Chicago neighborhoods, including Pilsen, Chinatown and Hyde Park.

Tours depart Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

For the full schedule, click here .

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Home You are in… Architecture » Public Art » Chicago Greeter Service

Share 'Chicago Greeter Service'

Explore Chicago with a friendly, knowledgeable Chicago Greeter as your guide! Visitors can register for a free 2-4 hour guided walking tour of a neighborhood or special local interest of their choice. This free service matches an individual, family or small group of friends with one of over 200 enthusiastic volunteer Greeters who love sharing their expertise and passion about the city and all there is to see and do here. For more information, visit https://chicagogreeter.com/

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Chicago Greeter Service

Arts & culture, information, contact details.

  • Address: 77 E. Randolph Chicago IL 60602
  • Phone: (312) 744-8000 +1 312-744-8000
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: Visit Website

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International Greeter Association

Chicago Greeters ‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎ Free Private Walking Tour with a local

Chicago

Book a free private walk in Chicago with a Greeter.

Meet a local volunteer

Our core value #1   reads "Greeters are volunteers, a friendly face for those visiting a city."

It's true: our Greeters love their city or town and they are proud to share this with guests.

How could you better discover the most interesting spots of a place?

Mini group, maximum six people

Our core value #2 reads "Greeters welcome individuals and may serve small groups of up to six people."

The reason is that each Greet should be an opportunity to talk to each other and that seems impossible in bigger groups.

Also important: we do not mingle people from different requests but serve only you (and your friends).

Free service, no tipping

Our core value #3 reads "Meeting a Greeter is free of charge."

We do not follow a "give what you think is ok (but please give)" strategy. Greeters honestly do not like any tipping because what they give comes from their heart not because of any tipping expectation.

If you feel you would like to support the Greeters as a whole you should find a way to support the local Greeter organization (our our association) to keep the project running.

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A group of travelers explore the waterfront at Ping Tom Park in the Chinatown neighborhood on a Chicago Greeter visit.

Chicago Greeter Visits

Explore the streets of Chicago like a local with Chicago Greeter. Choose from in-depth neighborhood visits to short informative walks of top downtown spots.

Friends enjoy Italian ice in Chicago’s Little Italy neighborhood.

Chicago Greeter

Immersive neighborhood visits.

Discover Chicago's unique neighborhoods during a Chicago Greeter visit, led by a friendly local.

These free walks are led by welcoming volunteer Greeters who share interesting facts, insider tips, and an authentic perspective on life in Chicago. A recipient of TripAdvisor's Certificate of Excellence, Chicago Greeter is a great way to get to know Chicago's vibrant and diverse neighborhoods.

Here's what you need to know about Chicago Greeter visits:

  • Typically last two to four hours
  • Completely free of charge
  • Led by a friendly local Greeter
  • Can accommodate up to six guests
  • Offered in over a dozen languages
  • Can be customized based on your interests

We request that guests register for a Greeter visit at least two weeks in advance of their arrival in Chicago.

Two visitors outside the Art Institute of Chicago.

InstaGreeter

Short guided walks.

If you're looking for a fast, flexible Greeter experience, check out our InstaGreeter walks. These hour-long guided walks are a fun and informal way to get to know Chicago without having to register in advance.

You can find InstaGreeter walks year-round in the downtown Loop neighborhood and seasonally at the Chicago Riverwalk and select neighborhoods.

Chicago InstaGreeter schedule

A group of visitors at The Bean in Chicago’s Millennium Park.

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Chicago Cultural Center

Explore the must-see spots and top attractions of Chicago’s stunning downtown neighborhood.

A view of the Chicago Riverwalk in summer.

Chicago Riverwalk

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 11:30 a.m.

Memorial Day through Labor Day

McCormick Bridgehouse Museum

Discover public art, outdoor cafes, and scenic views along the bustling banks of the Chicago River.

Friends in front of the Monument to the Great Northern Migration statue in Chicago’s Bronzeville.

International Greeter Day

Saturday, Sept. 9

Join us in celebrating International Greeter Day with pop-up walks in five unique neighborhoods, along with the Loop and Chicago Riverwalk.

A bridge above the Chicago Riverwalk.

Chicago Greeter and InstaGreeter FAQ

What’s the difference between chicago greeter and instagreeter visits.

InstaGreeter walks are shorter (approximately an hour) than a Greeter visit (two to four hours). InstaGreeter walks do not require pre-registration, while we request you sign up for a Greeter visit at least two weeks in advance. Also, Chicago Greeter visits are focused on your choice of neighborhood and interests while InstaGreeter walks take place in predetermined locations.

How do I sign up for a Greeter or InstaGreeter visit?

You can register for a Chicago Greeter visit up to two weeks before your arrival in Chicago. You do not need to sign up in advance for InstaGreeter tours.

How much do Greeter and InstaGreeter cost?

Chicago Greeter visits and InstaGreeter walks are completely free. Greeters are volunteers and adhere to a strict no-tipping policy.

Where do Greeter and InstaGreeter visits start?

Most Chicago Greeter visits begin at the Chicago Cultural Center (77 E. Randolph) in the Loop, unless you coordinate an alternate meeting point with your Chicago Greeter.

InstaGreeter tours depart from set locations. The Loop tour begins at the Chicago Cultural Center and the Chicago Riverwalk tour departs from Columbus Plaza. Check the InstaGreeter schedule above for more details.

When are InstaGreeter walks?

InstaGreeter walks of the Loop are offered Friday, Saturday, and Sunday all year long. InstaGreeter walks from other locations, including the Chicago Riverwalk, are on a seasonal schedule. Check the above schedule for details.

Do I need to wear a mask on a Greeter or InstaGreeter visit?

If you are fully vaccinated, you do not need to wear a mask, but we ask that you have one available in case you are going into a building that requires masks. If you are unvaccinated, please wear a mask at all times. Your Greeter may ask all participants to be vaccinated or not to wear a mask.

This website uses cookies to ensure the best experience, which you consent to by clicking ‘Got It.’ Learn more about how we handle your personal data and rights by reviewing our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . By visiting chicagogreeter.com, you are consenting to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

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Chicago Greeter

Chicago Greeter

Type: Architecture , Art & Culture , Family Friendly , Free Attractions

Last updated on April 25, 2022

10Best Says

72 E Randolph St Chicago, IL 60601

(312) 945-4231

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EXPERT TIPS BY: Jacky Runice Travel Journalist

  • Free Things to Do : "Short on time? InstaGreeter offers free hour-long guided walks of downtown, Millennium Park, Uptown and Hyde Park without the need to pre-register."
  • Best for Free Things to Do Because: Visitors can tour the city like a local, with a local, for free.

Things to Do

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Restaurants

restaurants

Nightlife

Free Things to Do in Chicago

  • 10 Museum of Contemporary Photography
  • 9 Chicago Riverwalk
  • 8 Smart Museum of Art
  • 7 Millennium Park
  • 6 Hyde Park Art Center
  • 5 Chicago Lakefront Trail
  • 4 Garfield Park Conservatory
  • 3 Chicago Greeter
  • 2 Jay Pritzker Pavilion
  • 1 Lincoln Park Zoo

Explore Chicago

Pullman

Take a walking tour of Chicago’s Pullman neighborhood

Bank of America

Sponsored by Bank of America

Welcome to our new series of self-guided Chicago Greeter tours, presented by Bank of America. Each walking tour is created by a knowledgeable local to showcase their favorite hidden gems and unique attractions in Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods .

This tour is based on one created by Stetson Siler, who has been a Chicago Greeter for 13 years. Their tour of Pullman covers the neighborhood’s fascinating past as a planned industrial town and its present as a National Monument.

chicago greeter neighborhood tours

The historic Pullman neighborhood is located about 15 miles from downtown Chicago. It was declared a National Monument by President Barack Obama in 2015 for its historic significance, making it the first and only National Monument and unit of the National Park System in the city of Chicago.

Insider tip : One of the easiest ways to get to Pullman is by taking the Metra Electric line to Kensington/115th Station. From there, just walk east to the Pullman Historic District. 

Market Square arches_Photo by Eric Allix Rogers_Courtesy of Historic Pullman Foundation

Start your trip with a stop at the new Pullman National Monument Visitor Center. The center is housed in a restored clock tower that’s almost 120 years old. The striking building was damaged in a fire in 1998 and closed to the public for many years before the Visitor Center opened in 2021.

Inside, you can learn more about the history of this one-of-a-kind community. Built in 1880, Pullman was the country’s first planned model industrial community. George Pullman, president of Pullman’s Palace Car Company, dreamt up the idea of a planned community to house the employees who built his luxury rail cars.

chicago greeter neighborhood tours

Pullman believed that a happy employee was an effective employee. He hoped a perfect community would attract and retain the most skilled workers and lead to greater productivity. Each home had personal green space, gas, and running water — luxuries for the average worker at the time. The community was lauded for its ample green space and beautiful architecture. 

While Pullman’s vision was brought to life by 1884, his planned utopia wasn’t enough to quell unrest among his employees. In 1893, a significant economic recession hit and Pullman cut wages — without lowering rent. This led to the Pullman workers strike, which escalated into a national railroad boycott and became a crucial event in the early labor rights movement.

Hotel Florence front entrance

You can see all this history come to life inside the Visitor Center, where you’ll find artifacts from Pullman workers, a 3D model of the town’s original layout, and even a full-sized model of the luxurious Pullman sleeper car. 

When you’re done, l eave the Visitors Center and walk north to the Florence Hotel. Named for Pullman’s oldest daughter, the grand hotel was once filled with luxurious suites, a barber shop, a billiard room, and the community’s only bar. Step onto the large Victorian porch and take a peek inside.

Insider tip : You can catch a guided tour of the Pullman community on the first Sunday of the month from May through October. Tours begin at the Visitor Center, where you can also pick up a brochure for a self-guided walk.

Head a bit north to the residential area on 111th Street, where you’ll find an interesting mix of executive mansions and worker’s cottages. The most prestigious residences, housing the senior executives, were along 111th Street because this location offered the shortest walk to work. As you walk further south, you’ll find progressively more humble residences that housed different levels of employees. 

If the home exteriors pique your interest, make sure to return for the Annual Historic Pullman House Tour , when residents open the doors of their landmark homes each October.

National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum

If you want to dive further into the history of Pullman, you can’t miss the National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum . The small museum honors the contributions made by African Americans to America’s labor rights movement, specifically Black railroad employees and Pullman porters.

Another nearby point of interest is the Greenstone Church at 112th Street and Saint Lawrence Avenue, a striking Romanesque building with a 92-foot steeple built in 1882.

If you’ve worked up an appetite, make time to stop into One Eleven Food Hall with its diverse collection of local dining options (including vegan soul food, barbecue, coffee, and more).

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Touring The Obama Neighborhoods Of Chicago

Article By: Michael Schuman

chicago greeter neighborhood tours

We walk through the Obama family's most cherished neighborhoods in Chicago, with Chicago Greeter Tours…

There it is, a corner house on Hyde Park Boulevard, half hidden by trees and across a side street from a Byzantine-style synagogue: the home of the President of the United States . Chicago greeter and our tour guide Marshall Jacobson calls us over to a sidewalk across the boulevard for the best photo opportunity of the presidential digs. A Chicago city police officer guarding the house indicates a place to stand for an even better photo. As we snap away, a guided bicycle tour shows up with the same purpose in mind.

According to Jacobson, the particular police officer on duty can make or break your photo of the Obama house. The previous week, one officer basically told Jacobson and his guests to get lost. As it is, the house is shrouded by trees, so the best images one can get highlights the solarium in the left foreground. Jacobson tells us that Obama reportedly paid between $1.6 and $1.7 million for the home in 2005, after reaping the benefits of his work as an attorney and author of two books.

Between Kenwood and Hyde Park: Obama's House

Jacobson is a Chicago Greeter , a volunteer resident who leads the curious on both foot and via public transportation through more than 25 neighborhoods. Jacobson says that the Gold Coast and Wicker Park – Bucktown are two other favorite destinations, but we choose to explore the area the president calls home.

And while Jim Croce may have sang that Chicago’s South Side “is the baddest part of town” in his 1973 hit, “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown,” we discover that not all of the South Side falls into that category. Obama’s house is officially in the Kenwood neighborhood, but the spot where we are standing across the street from the home marks the beginning of the adjacent Hyde Park neighborhood. Both neighborhoods are very integrated and safe.

Actually, the tour begins not on the South Side but downtown, in the Chicago Cultural Visitor Center and within walking distance of the First National Bank of Chicago building, where Obama worked for the law firm Miner, Barnhill and Galland. It’s a bottom heavy structure, shaped like the state of New Hampshire, 59,000 square feet at ground level and 29,500 square feet at the top. Jacobson points out other downtown landmarks, such as the modern Alexander Calder sculpture, “The Flamingo,” before passing judgment on Chicago‘s famous elevated railway.

Smiles Jacobson, “The El still drives me crazy. I’ve never gotten used to it (the noise).” We bypass the El as Jacobson escorts us onto a city bus heading south to Hyde Park.

Obama's Neighborhood Barbershop and Diner

The view of the president’s home away from the White House may be the cherry on this Chicago greeter walking tour, but a few blocks away is the place where Obama gets his hair cut. Hyde Park Hair Salon promotes itself today as “the official barbershop of President Obama” and Obama’s favorite chair is and preserved in Plexiglas. Framed autographed magazines deck the walls.

So does a painting of Obama‘s personal barber Zariff (that’s it — just one name, like Madonna or Prince) trimming the president’s hair. An Obama cut is promoted for $21. Says Zariff, “It’s a low medium cut, tapered on the sides and back. That’s barber talk.”

Zariff has been cutting Obama’s hair for about 16 years. He says, ‘We never discussed political issues. But what we talk about remains private. If we [barbers] told, we wouldn’t have any customers.”

As we walk past apartments and small businesses, Jacobson tells us that this area was at one time one of Chicago’s most elite neighborhoods. One of the city’s most prestigious — and restricted — country clubs is in these environs. More on that later.

We enter Valois , an inexpensive and comfy cafeteria at 1518 East 53rd Street. It has been here since the 1920s today is proud to promote its Obama connection. A homemade sign identifies three of “President Obama’s favorites,” such as steak and eggs, hash browns and toast for $8.95. “`Yes we can’ help the economy,” the sign adds. Owner Sam Argiris says sales of those items are up 70 percent since he posted the sign.

Obama's Teaching Years at The University of Chicago

We exit the cafeteria and head down Harper Street towards the University of Chicago , but not without a stop at the apartment at 5429 Harper where Obama lived as a single man and teacher of law at the prestigious university. Notes Jacobson, “Chicago is very famous for courtyard apartments like this. Obama lived in an apartment (in this building) facing the rear.”

While serving as professor for 12 years, Obama was known to frequent the Medici Restaurant , a restaurant with a long political history. The famed Chicago Seven of anti-Vietnam War fame gathered here, and the bistro was a hotbed of antiwar activity in the 1960s.

Pre-Presidential Family Dinners and Public Appearances

Obama hasn’t been back since he was elected president, but he did eat here with his family while running for president, always accompanied by six or eight security people. Like other well known Chicago restaurants such as Gino’s East pizzeria , the Medici allows patrons to autograph its walls.

One such patron a few years ago was a young girl named Malia Obama, who wrote her name in green crayon, added a heart, and engirded her writing with an oval. Her scribbling is now protected under glass and surrounded by a wooden frame.

The Medici sells $20 tee-shirts reading “Obama Eats Here,” although “Obama Ate Here” would be more apropos. Still, the Medici has become famous in its own right. Assistant manager Kelly Hayward, once an anonymous Chicago restaurant employee, has been interviewed by news bureaus from all over the world, including Al-Jazeera and the German national television network.

Like Hayward, bookstore employee Tom Flynn has had his brushes with fame. Flynn, the events coordinator at Seminary Co-Op Bookstore (and how many bookstores have full-time events coordinators?), also serving the campus, hosted Obama’s book signing of "The Audacity of Hope" in 2006. The emporium has an underground entrance but seems to go on as long James Michener’s Hawaii. Lines stretched around the block as the store opened early to accommodate the then senator and his fans that day in 2006. Media were allowed 10 minutes to ask Obama about his book and his future political plans; the rest of the time was allotted to Obama and his fans.

Where the Obamas Said "I Do"

Jacobson led us on one more city bus ride, this time about 15 minutes south to the site of the former South Shore Country Club on the shores of Lake Michigan. Built in 1904 and rebuilt in 1916 after a fire, the facility is decorated in a Spanish colonial style, based on a Mexico City country club. For seven decades the South Shore Country Club entertained the wealthiest residents of Chicago’s South Side with two exceptions: Jews and African-Americans. Michelle Obama grew up about four blocks from the country club but would never have been let inside the front door. That discrimination lasted well into the 1970s when the neighborhood began changing and the country club was sold to the city’s park district.

Today it is the South Shore Cultural Center and is owned by the City Park District. Chicagoans gather here to play golf and host parties in a reception hall that even the Trumps would covet. The Obama connection? Barack and Michelle had their wedding reception here, dancing under the white and pink plastered roof. The double hung windows date to the reception hall’s earliest days before central air conditioning existed. They were flung open on muggy summer nights to take advantage of the breezes blowing off Lake Michigan.

Footnote: The Paul Robeson Theater, also part of the building, was the setting of the climactic concert scene of the movie "The Blues Brothers."

So much for restriction.

According to Jacobson, who has given tours to visitors from throughout the globe, “Foreigners have an enormous excitement about Obama and are like little kids. They get excited about everything you show them. Americans are more laid back.”

What to Know When You Go

Chicago Greeter tours are free and run by volunteers. Reservations are required and should be made seven to ten business days in advance. Due to extensive walking, the Hyde Park – Obama tour averages three to four hours. Most of the other tours average about two hours.

Those unable to make reservations can take an Insta-Greeter tour on a first come, first serve basis. They last about an hour and leave from the Chicago Cultural Visitor Center at 201 East Randolph Street, downtown. Insta-Greeter tours take place Friday through Sunday from 10-4, with the last visit of the day departing at 3 p.m.

To arrange your star, contact Chicago Greeter (312/744-8000), open weekdays, 9am-5pm. The Chicago Office of Tourism (877/CHICAGO or 877/ 244-2246) is also helpful.

Our guide, Marshall Jacobson, also gives his own private tours through Tours-R-Us Chicago . He charges $40 per hour with a minimum of three hours per tour for any number of people. They tend to be more extensive than the greeter tours and are tailored more to a client’s specific requests. (773/ 575-3176).

Where to Stay in Chicago

These are some of the hotels I recommend for your Chicago visit.

The Wit    201 North State Street (at the corner of Lake and State) Chicago, IL 60601 (312/467-0200) One of Chicago’s newest boutique hotels by Doubletree. Doubles: $129-$259

Hilton Chicago : 720 South Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60605 (312/922-4400) A long time Chicago lodging institution. Doubles: $99-$459 

Gold Coast Guest House   113 West Elm Street Chicago, IL 60610 (312/337-0361) An 1873 brick Victorian townhouse featuring a contemporary 20 foot window wall facing a two-level garden. 4 rooms: $129-$199, includes continental breakfast, all private baths.

Wicker Park Inn 1329 North Wicker Park Avenue Chicago, IL 60622 (773/486-2743) An 1890 brick row house with guest rooms decorated to reflect various locales. 5 rooms and 3 apartments: $129-$179, includes continental breakfast, all private baths.

Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.

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Free tours with a local Chicago Greeter

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“Explore Chicago with a friendly, knowledgeable local as your guide. This free service matches visitors with enthusiastic, city-wise volunteers for 2-4 hour guided visits of Chicago.

Let a friendly, knowledgeable local give you an insider’s orientation to Chicago.  Register at least 10 business days in advance for a free 2-4 hour guided visit of Chicago.”

Greeter visits are customized based on your choice of neighborhoods, language and interests.  We have over 200 enthusiastic volunteers waiting to share their expertise and passion about the city with you.

  • Chicago Greeter visits are free and can accommodate up to 6 guests;
  • Greeter visits are can be customized for you and your group;
  • Greeter visits are offered in over a dozen languages;
  • Greeter visits combine walking, buses and trains, and are the perfect orientation to Chicago’s safe and efficient public transit system;
  • Choose to visit one of over 25 diverse neighborhoods , each with its own unique character and distinct culture, history and flavor;
  • Choose to explore one of over 40 special interests , including art and architecture, food, local history, family-friendly destinations, Gay Chicago and Ethnic Chicago.

Greeter visits are fun, informal, and definitely not what you’d find in your average guidebook.

If you are visiting in less than 10 days or would like a tour at the last minute visit one of two Instagreeter locations in the Chicago Loop:

  • Loop InstaGreeter , available year round. Friday, Saturday  10-3pm and Sunday 11-2pm, walks leave on the half hour .  Located in the Chicago Cultural Center’s Visitor Center, 77 E. Randolph, Chicago, IL.  An InstaGreeter will take you on a free hour-long guided walk of Downtown.  Registration is not required.
  • Millennium Park Greeter free guided walks of Millennium Park (May 22-Oct 12, 2015) daily at 11:30am and 1:00pm for up to 10 people. The walks are first come first served and begin in the Visitor Center located in the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph.
  • Uptown InstaGreeter  free guided walks of the Uptown neighborhood (April 11- Oct. 10th, 2015) second Saturday of the month, walks leave at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm.  Leaving from Shake, Rattle and Read 4812 N. Broadway.

If you are enthusiastic about our city and enjoy people you may want to consider volunteering to become a greeter.   You can apply here .

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The 30 things everyone in Chicago should do at least once, according to Tripadvisor users

Posted: February 25, 2024 | Last updated: February 25, 2024

<p><a href="https://www.stacker.com/illinois/chicago">Stacker</a> compiled a list of the highest rated things to do in Chicago on <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/">Tripadvisor</a>. Tripadvisor rankings factor in the average rating and number of reviews.</p>

Highest-rated things to do in Chicago, according to Tripadvisor

Stacker compiled a list of the highest rated things to do in Chicago on Tripadvisor . Tripadvisor rankings factor in the average rating and number of reviews.

<p>- Rating: 5.0 / 5 (24,407)<br>- Type of activity: Art Museums<br>- Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603-6110<br>- <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g35805-d103239-Reviews-The_Art_Institute_of_Chicago-Chicago_Illinois.html">Read more on Tripadvisor</a></p>

#30. The Art Institute of Chicago

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<p>- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (25,010)<br>- Type of activity: Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks<br>- Address: 201 East Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60601-6530<br>- <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g35805-d278811-Reviews-Millennium_Park-Chicago_Illinois.html">Read more on Tripadvisor</a></p>

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<p>- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (18,210)<br>- Type of activity: Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues<br>- Address: not available<br>- <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g35805-d1134861-Reviews-Cloud_Gate-Chicago_Illinois.html">Read more on Tripadvisor</a></p>

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#22. Underground Donut Tour

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#20. Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower

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#19. Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours

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#18. Chicago's First Lady Cruises

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#17. Shoreline Sightseeing

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#16. Tours and Boats

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#14. Chief Chicago Limo

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#4. Segway Experience of Chicago

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#3. See it All Chicago Tours

- Rating: 5.0 / 5 (647) - Type of activity: City Tours • Boat Tours - Address: not available - Read more on Tripadvisor

<p>- Rating: 5.0 / 5 (140)<br>- Type of activity: Historical & Heritage Tours • Walking Tours<br>- Address: not available<br>- <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g35805-d7144526-Reviews-Chicago_Foodways_Tours-Chicago_Illinois.html">Read more on Tripadvisor</a></p>

#2. Chicago Foodways Tours

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<p>- Rating: 5.0 / 5 (1,184)<br>- Type of activity: Historical & Heritage Tours • Walking Tours<br>- Address: not available<br>- <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g35805-d2254363-Reviews-Chicago_s_Finest_Tours-Chicago_Illinois.html">Read more on Tripadvisor</a></p>

#1. Chicago's Finest Tours

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  6. Chicago Greeter visits: InstaGreeter schedule & FAQ

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COMMENTS

  1. Top Rated Chicago Tours

    Enjoy everything Chicago has to offer with a wide range of tours & activities. Full refund available up to 24 Hours before your tour date. Quick & easy purchase process.

  2. Explore Chicago with a Chicago Greeter

    Greeter visits. Immerse yourself in our unique neighborhoods and downtown sights during a Chicago Greeter visit. These free visits are a great way to explore the city with the insider perspective of a friendly local. Learn more about Chicago Greeter and sign up for a free visit today. Learn More

  3. Chicago Greeter

    The free Chicago Greeter visits are led by friendly locals who will guide you through authentic Chicago — its fascinating histories, diverse cultural traditions, iconic landmarks, and off-the-beaten-path gems. Chicago Greeter offers a variety of ways to explore the city: register for a customized neighborhood visit with a friendly local, join ...

  4. Chicago Greeter

    About. Chicago Greeter highlights interest areas and more than 25 neighborhoods for visitors to explore. Chicago Greeter is designed to match a friendly, enthusiastic, and city knowledgeable local with a visitor for a two - four hour FREE informal, insider orientation to Chicago's sights. Through the Chicago Greeter service, visitors meet with ...

  5. Chicago Greeter Tours

    Chicago Greeter Tours Considerations. Things to know as you make use of Chicago Greeter Tours services: To schedule a 2-4 hour guided visit of Chicago, register at least 10 business days in advance of the date of the tour. Tours may be requested in more than 25 neighborhoods to cover over 40 different interest areas, including: family friendly ...

  6. Chicago Greeters offering free pop up neighborhood tours through 20

    The series features free neighborhood walks through 20 Chicago neighborhoods, including Pilsen, Chinatown and Hyde Park. Tours depart Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. For the full schedule ...

  7. Choose Chicago celebrates 20th anniversary of the Chicago Greeter

    Chicago, IL - June 28, 2022 -Choose Chicago has launched a celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Chicago Greeters program with an InstaGreeter pop-up tour series. Operating now through Labor Day weekend, the new series will feature free one- to two-hour neighborhood walks, with departures on Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

  8. Chicago Greeter

    Loop. Location. 77 E. Randolph St., Chicago IL 60603. Get directions. Contact. www.chicagogreeter.com. (312) 945-4231. (312) 567-8504. Completely free and uniquely customized to your own interests, Chicago Greeter is a year-round service that offers visitors the opportunity to explore Chicago with an insider leading the way.

  9. Chicago Greeter Service

    Explore Chicago with a friendly, knowledgeable Chicago Greeter as your guide! Visitors can register for a free 2-4 hour guided walking tour of a neighborhood or special local interest of their choice. This free service matches an individual, family or small group of friends with one of over 200 enthusiastic...

  10. Take a walking tour of Chicago's Kenwood neighborhood

    Welcome to our new series of self-guided Chicago Greeter tours, presented by Bank of America. Each walking tour is created by a knowledgeable local to showcase their favorite hidden gems and fascinating history behind Chicago's unique neighborhoods.. This tour is based on one created by Kineret Jaffe, who has lived in the area since 1987. Her tour of Kenwood covers the neighborhood's many ...

  11. Chicago Greeters: Free walking tour

    Free Private Walking Tour with a local. Let a friendly, knowledgeable local give you an insider's orientation to Chicago! Register at least 10 business days in advance for a FREE 2-4 hour visit of Chicago.Greeter visits are customized based on your choice of neighborhoods, language and interests. We have over 200 enthusiastic volunteers ...

  12. Take a walking tour of Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood

    Welcome to our new series of self-guided Chicago Greeter tours, presented by Bank of America. Each walking tour is created by a knowledgeable local to showcase their favorite hidden gems and fascinating history behind Chicago's unique neighborhoods.. This tour is based on one created by Roy Malone, who was born and raised in Chicago's landmark Bronzeville neighborhood.

  13. Chicago Greeter visits: InstaGreeter schedule & FAQ

    Discover Chicago's unique neighborhoods during a Chicago Greeter visit, led by a friendly local. These free walks are led by welcoming volunteer Greeters who share interesting facts, insider tips, and an authentic perspective on life in Chicago. A recipient of TripAdvisor's Certificate of Excellence, Chicago Greeter is a great way to get to ...

  14. Chicago Greeter is one of the very best things to do in Chicago

    See pubic art in Pilsen or learn about Lincoln Park. Greeter visits are offered in over a dozen languages and cover over 25 neighborhoods and 40 interest areas. Register at least 10 business days in advance for a free 2-4 hour guided visit of Chicago.

  15. Choose Chicago celebrates 7th annual International Greeter Day with

    CHICAGO, IL - September 2, 2022 - Choose Chicago President and CEO Lynn Osmond announces a series of downtown and neighborhood tours on Sept. 10 ... "Within our 7-day visit of Chicago our Greeter walking tour alongside our attendance to a White Sox Game against the Minnesota Twins were the two most memorable highlights of our trip." ...

  16. Take a walking tour of Chicago's Pullman neighborhood

    This tour is based on one created by Stetson Siler, who has been a Chicago Greeter for 13 years. Their tour ofPullman covers the neighborhood's fascinating past as a planned industrial town and its present as a National Monument. The historic Pullman neighborhood is located about 15 miles from downtown Chicago.

  17. Touring The Obama Neighborhoods Of Chicago

    They last about an hour and leave from the Chicago Cultural Visitor Center at 201 East Randolph Street, downtown. Insta-Greeter tours take place Friday through Sunday from 10-4, with the last visit of the day departing at 3 p.m. To arrange your star, contact Chicago Greeter (312/744-8000), open weekdays, 9am-5pm.

  18. Free tours with a local Chicago Greeter

    If you are visiting in less than 10 days or would like a tour at the last minute visit one of two Instagreeter locations in the Chicago Loop: Loop InstaGreeter, available year round. Friday, Saturday 10-3pm and Sunday 11-2pm, walks leave on the half hour . Located in the Chicago Cultural Center's Visitor Center, 77 E. Randolph, Chicago, IL.

  19. Chicago Greeter

    Chicago Greeter highlights interest areas and more than 25 neighborhoods for visitors to explore. Chicago Greeter is designed to match a friendly, enthusiastic, and city knowledgeable local with a visitor for a two - four hour FREE informal, insider orientation to Chicago's sights.

  20. Explore Chicago with a Chicago Greeter

    Greeter visited. Dipping yourself in our unique neighborhoods both downtown sights during one Chicago Greeter visit. Save free tour are a great way to explore which city with the insider perspective of a friendly local. Know more about Stops Greeter and mark skyward for a free call today. Learned More

  21. Exploring Chicago On A Budget: 31 Free Activities

    2. Chicago Greeter Neighborhood Tours. For a more personalized Chicago experience, consider the Chicago Greeter program. Knowledgeable locals provide insider's tours of the city's vibrant ...

  22. Chicago Greeter

    Explore Chicago's diverse neighborhoods at your own pace with self-guided Chicago Greeter tours, presented by Bank of America. These walking tours have been ...

  23. The 30 things everyone in Chicago should do at least once ...

    - Rating: 5.0 / 5 (24,407) - Type of activity: Art Museums - Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603-6110 - Read more on Tripadvisor