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Hop On Hop Off Chicago - Bus Tours

Getting around The Windy City is a breeze when you take a hop-on hop-off Chicago tour! You can get to call the shots during your sightseeing trip. Hop off our open-air, double-decker busses and check out the attractions that interest you. Then, hop back on and skip the ones that don’t. An excursion tour has never been so easy! These highly useful attraction passes provide admission to some of the most popular attractions at a deep discount. Picking one up is one of the smartest things to do in Chicago!

Chicago Sightseeing Bus Tours

Top Customer Reviews

Marisol sepulveda.

Great tour!! Great service and great guide

Karla Gonzalez

The ticket and the extras offered were better than I expected, service inside the Bus and extra support were great.

Diane Sullivan-Ishiki

Ok. Wish was alittle less expensive.

Experience Chicago in Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

The most populous city in the United States, Chicago lies on the shore of Lake Michigan. Famously known as the Windy City, it is the major hub for finance, education, and telecommunication in the US. Chicago is famous for its local cuisine and vibrant nightlife. Make sure that you don’t miss out on the Chicago-style hot dogs, deep-dish pizza, and jazz music while you are there.

With the open-top Big Bus hop on hop off Chicago sightseeing tour, you can explore the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Or find out what the John Hancock Center, Shedd Aquarium, and Miracle Mile offer.

Make sure to plan your itinerary in advance or it may get overwhelming at the last minute. Also, you can buy a CTA pass to easily navigate around the city without the hassle of renting a car. In case, you want to drive around, you can rely on the ParkChicago app to find routes seamlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what is the best time to book a chicago hop-on hop-off tour.

April to September is the best time to plan a visit to Chicago and cover its major attractions. You can count on comfortable weather during this time that will make your sightseeing easy. However, if you are on a budget and looking to save some dough, then you can visit after the holiday season during January.

Q: How many days are enough to explore Chicago?

We recommend spending 3 to 5 days in Chicago to uncover its main attractions and hidden gems.

Q: Are these tours guided?

That will depend on the tour provider. You’ll find that hop-on hop-off bus tours can be either live or audio-guided. Many will have a pre-recorded commentary that’ll share fascinating information about the history of Chicago, its culture, and many places of interest. You’ll find that the audio commentary will be provided in various languages. English, French, German and Spanish are the most commonly used, but others may be available. Check the specific product page for full details of all the languages offered.

Q: What is the validity of the ticket?

There are several ticket options available to you, depending on your length of stay. Each bus tour will have validity from 24, 36, 48 to 72 hours. And the great thing is you can plan ahead as the vouchers are valid anywhere between 6 months to 1 year and can be used at any point during that period. Check the product page or bus tour operator for complete details.

Q: Where can I find a list of all the stops and a map of the various Chicago hop-on hop-off tour routes?

You can visit the relevant product page and check the Useful Downloads section to find the latest information as routes, stops, and timings change frequently.

Other Hop On Hop Off Destinations

• New York City
• San Francisco
• Washington DC
• Los Angeles
• Johannesburg
• San Antonio
• Reykjavik Iceland
• St-Petersburg
• Benalmadena
• Thessaloniki
• Kristiansand
• BUENOS AIRES
• Hop On Hop Off Bus Offers and Deals

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Chicago Bus Tours

One of the most traditional ways to explore any new city is by taking a bus tour. With Chicago’s expansive landscape and top attractions spread across multiple neighborhoods, there’s a real need for some assistance in your explorations. Fortunately for visitors to Chicago, bus tours abound in a wide variety of styles. They also come in at multiple different price points, too, so you could choose a very budget-friendly option to see the top sights only, or make a bit of an investment to see the whole city on a multi-hour tour. Whatever style of bus tour you’re looking for, it’s likely that Chicago has an option or two for you.

Sightseeing tours are the most popular, and for good reason. These tours provide expert narration and showcase the best sights of the city. You can opt to explore only the North Side, the South Shore, or both on a comprehensive tour. Another, similar style of bus tour is the hop-on hop-off variety. On these tours, you can still enjoy a fully-narrated drive while also having the benefit of being able to disembark at any of their predetermined stops to explore a top landmark, neighborhood, or attraction. A few companies offer this option, so it’s a popular type of tour that you can easily find good deals on.

Beyond the basics, there are a few bus tours with specific themes. For example, some tours run at night, showcasing Chicago in all of her illuminated glory. See Chicagoans out to play and the Magnificent Mile vibrant with color and lights – it’s a real experience that visitors should not pass up. Other themes are more culturally-oriented, like the popular Chicago Crime Tours. These bus tours highlight locations in the city that are or have been associated with the mob in Chicago, the city where Al Capone made his money and his fame.

A few of the most popular tours are also organized around food and drink. Some are family-friendly, offering culinary explorations around cuisines like pizza, hotdogs, Italian, and ethnic food of various types. Others are aimed at adult audiences only, featuring alcohol-themed tours that explore Chicago’s preeminent craft beer scene, cocktails, historic pubs, and more. Depending upon the tour company you choose, the tours can include food and drink or only transportation.

If you’re trying to decide which Chicago tour might be right for you, here’s a list of the top Chicago tour companies that visitors tend to choose from.

Gray Line Tours

Offers 5 different tour options in Chicago. Popular Gray Line Chicago tours include the Chicago Grand City tour, the Chicago North Side tour, and the Historic Chicago South Shore tour.

Big Bus Chicago

With their distinctive fleet of open-top, double-decker buses, Big Bus Chicago offers hop-on, hop-off tours that let you choose where and when you stop at a given attraction.

Chicago Crime Tours

Takes visitors on guided outings to a number of famous crime scenes. Along the way, guests will learn about Chicago’s history as a hotbed for criminals like John Dillinger, Al Capone, and more.

Big Bus Tours - Chicago

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Chicago's premier hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour takes you on an extensive route, showcasing the best the city has to offer.

From the great vantage point of the open top double-decker buses, you'll enjoy panoramic views of Chicago's finest skyscrapers and cultural landmarks. Take in the sights while listening to an entertaining commentary and insight into Chicago's history. Enjoy exploring this dynamic city with the freedom to hop-on and hop-off as many times as you wish to visit Chicago's famous attractions. These hop-on hop-off buses and conveniently located stops make navigating your way around the city easy, and with a choice of 1 or 2 day tickets, you can take your time discovering Chicago.

Tours begin at 98 E Wacker Drive near the Chicago Riverwalk. Download the Big Bus Tours App in the App Store for a busload of maps and information to help you navigate Chicago!

630 W 41st St Unit B Chicago, IL 60609

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The best Chicago bus tours

Explore the city’s historic landmarks, gorgeous architecture, craft breweries and more on these Chicago bus tours

To cover more ground in less time, book one of the best Chicago bus tours and explore the city on four wheels. These guided expeditions whizz by all the best Chicago attractions , so you can easily check out everything on your must-see list. It’s not all generic sightseeing tours, either: Architecture bus tours take you to all the most beautiful buildings in Chicago , while beer crawls offer suds lovers the chance to drink at some of the best Chicago breweries . Whatever you want to experience in Chicago, these bus tours will help you make the most of out of your trip.

RECOMMENDED: Check out the full guide to the best Chicago tours

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Best Chicago bus tours

1.  Chicago Architecture Aficionados Bus Tour

This 3.5-hour excursion gives sightseers an overview of some 30 miles of Chicago architecture, from the Loop’s neoclassical buildings to Ludwig Mies van der Rohe's Illinois Institute of Technology campus. Bring a camera—you’re sure to spy some picture-perfect views. $45

2.  Chicago Craft Brewery Barrel Bus Tour

You will literally be rollin’ down the road in this bus shaped like a wooden barrel. This whimsical tour stops at four local craft breweries for tours and tastings, lubricating riders with 50 ounces of beer in total. Cheers to that! $78.40

3.  Pullman National Monument Bus Tour

Now a historic neighborhood of Chicago, Pullman originated as the first planned industrial community in the country. Exploring the architecturally stunning 'hood makes for a fascinating afternoon—especially on this three-hour bus tour that covers the history, industry and culture of the enclave. $35

4.  Chicago Pizza History Bus Tour

While deep dish is certainly Chicago’s most famous style of pizza, you can actually find as many as 10 different varieties at restaurants around the city. Food writer Steve Dolinsky created this tour to expose travelers to a wide range of pies, from thin and crispy New York-style slices to square tavern-style ‘za. Come hungry, because there will be plenty of tastings!  $69

5.  Chicago Night Crimes Tour

What better time to discover Chicago’s grisly past than under the dark of night? See the site of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre, the spot where John Dillinger met his end and the scene of the infamous “handshake murder” on this macabre bus tour. You’ll even get to grab a drink at historic watering holes like Burwood Tap and Harry Caray’s. $45

6.  World’s Fair Bus Tour

Though Chicago’s World Fair has long passed, you can still get a sense of what the gargantuan exhibit might have been like by visiting the grounds. This bus tour aims to transport visitors back to 1893 and 1933 through archival photos, oral history and, of course, a tour of the site. $35

7.  Wright Around Chicago Bus Tour

Frank Lloyd Wright spent the first 20 years of his career in Chicago, so it’s the perfect place to gain some insight into the mind of the world-renowned architect. Check out his work on an early Chicago skyscraper, count the many Wright residences in Oak Park and peep the gorgeously restored Unity Temple on this bus tour led by the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust. $125 for Frank Lloyd Wright Trust members,  $150 for non-members

8.  Chicago Film Tour

It’s no Hollywood, but Chicago still has plenty of movie magic. Think about it: The Windy City has served as the backdrop for My Best Friend’s Wedding, The Dark Knight, Transformers: Dark of the Moon and more than 75 other movies. Peep iconic filming locations all over town on this two-hour bus tour. As you approach each spot, the guide will play a movie clip to jog your memory. $30

9.  South Side Essentials Bus Tour

What do President Barack Obama, Ida B. Wells, the Marx brothers and Nat King Cole have in common? They all have roots on Chicago’s South Side. Explore all the nabe has to offer—from the 1893 World’s Fair to Chess Records—on this three-hour bus tour. $35

10.  North Side Essentials Bus Tour

Even if you don’t know much about the North Side, you at least know its most famous sports landmark: Wrigley Field. Spot the home of the Cubs, bucolic Lincoln Park, the pricey Gold Coast neighborhood, scenic Lake Shore Drive and other North Side landmarks on this afternoon bus tour. $35

11.  Big Bus Chicago Hop-on Hop-off Tour

If you only have one day to explore Chicago, a hop-on hop-off bus tour might be your best bet. You can squeeze in tons of sightseeing by following the 14-stop route to some of the city’s top attractions such as Millenium Park and the Adler Planetarium. This way, you won’t even have to mess around with public transportation. $29

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Tours From Chicago

1-day chicago city tour tour code : gol-chi-115.

Departure City : Chicago IL

Available Days : Mon & Wed

Highlights : Welcome to the amazing city of Chicago. Check out the classical landmarks in Chicago while getting amazed by its post-modern architectures. Discover the stories behind the city’s most significant buildings such as Cloud Gate and Chicago Theatre. Take an in-depth tour of the city of Chicago and visit 360 Chicago for a full 360-degree panoramic view of Chicago from above. Explore Millenium Park and Grant Park. 

• Minimum of 2 guests required.
• we can provide door-to-door pickup and drop-off to hotels in downtown Chicago (hotels need to be located within 5 miles of the boarding point) Service Fee: $30/person.

1-Day Chicago to Holland Michigan Tulip Festival Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-142

Available Days : Special Dates

Highlights : [Safe travel] Vehicles are regularly disinfected throughout the journey, and professional drivers and guides provide considerate service, making travel more at ease. [Heart-warming service] The Chinese-speaking tour guide will lead the team throughout the journey, use the car comfortably, and start a comfortable journey. [Selected Attractions] Indulge in the sea of ​​tulips, take you to feel the windmill island in spring; stroll in the Holland Village, enjoy the European style; run in Sobetak, deeply search for the lost town of Singapore.

1-Day Chicago to Milwaukee Public Market and Milwaukee Art Museum Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-139

Available Days : Tue, Wed, Fri & Sat

Highlights : Discover the mechanics behind how motorcycles work and learn about the iconic history of Harley-Davidson through a gallery of bikes from 1903 to the present. Visit Miller Brewery to learn about the beer production process and taste authentic beer. Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum, one of the largest art museums in the United States

• Minimum 2 people

3-Day Chicago to Pittsburgh, Amish Village and Washington DC Cherry Blossom Festival Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-156

Available Days :

Highlights : Visit Pittsburgh, Point State Park, Washington, Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Vietnam Veteran Memorial, Potomac River, Jefferson Memorial, Amish Village, White House, and much more a guided bus tour from Chicago inclusive of hotel stay and bus transportation.

Guided group tour with a minimum of 2 guests.

4-Day Chicago to Indianapolis, Chattanooga, Nashville and Great Smoky Mountains Sightseeing Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-123

Highlights : Here is the opportunity for you to go and explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Knoxville, Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum, Dixie Stampede, Chattanooga, Nashville, Rock City, Ruby Falls, Tennessee, Indiana state Museum, Indiana state House, Mammoth Cave National Park,  and  more on this exciting Chicago Guided Bus Tour.

4-Day Chicago to Detroit, Milwaukee, Mackinac Island and Great Lakes Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-124

Available Days : Thursday

Highlights : Four famous lakeside cities: Milwaukee and Traverse City along Lake Michigan, Green Bay along Green Bay, and Sault Ste. Mackinac Island, which was once selected as one of the top ten most beautiful islands in the world and known as the treasure of the Great Lakes in North America.

• During maple season from September to October, the hotel will charge an additional $60.00 per room per night. we can provide door-to-door pickup and drop-off to hotels in downtown Chicago (hotels need to be located within 5 miles of the boarding point) Service Fee: $30/person.  

4-Day Chicago to Detroit, Ontario, Toronto, Cleveland, Niagara Falls US and Canada Side Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-130

Highlights :  Visiting the Henry Ford Museum, exploring the past glory of Motor City, aka Detroit. Enjoy the Niagara Falls from both the Canadian and US side, be on the Skylon Tower and Maid of Mist. Enjoy the stunning view of Toronto and Lake Ontario by reaching the top of CN Tower.  Go to the holy land of Rock ‘n’ Roll- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum located at Cleveland.

• Hotel breakfast.

5-Day Chicago to Cleveland, Millennium Park, Niagara Falls, Toronto and Detroit Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-133

Highlights : 1. See the master piece of design- Cloud Gate at Millennium Park 2. Enjoy the Niagara Falls from both the Canadian and US side, be on the Skylon Tower and Maid of Mist. 3. Enjoy the stunning view of Toronto and Lake Ontario by reaching the top of CN Tower.  4. Visiting the Henry Ford Museum, exploring the past glory of Motor City, aka Detroit. 5. Go to the holy land of Rock ‘n’ Roll- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum located at Cleveland.   Itinerary for departure schedule on 08/03: DAY1 Chicago - Detroit - London, Ontario DAY2 London, Ontario - Toronto  DAY3 Niagara Falls DAY4 Cleveland - Chicago DAY5 Chicago City Tour

5-Day Chicago to Millennium Park, Milwaukee, Holland, Great Lakes and Chicago City Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-125

Highlights : Five days to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the three major lakes in the Great Lakes region of the United States, all of which are located in Lake Michigan in the United States, Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world, and Lake Huron, which has the longest shoreline among the Great Lakes. Famous cities along the five great lakes: Chicago, Milwaukee and Traverse City along Lake Michigan, Green Bay along Green Bay, and Sault Ste. Mackinac Island, which was once selected as one of the top ten most beautiful islands in the world and known as the treasure of the Great Lakes in North America; Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Scenic Area with beautiful beaches.   Itinerary for departure schedule on Thursday: DAY1 Chicago - Green Bay - Escanaba DAY2 Lake Superior - Sault Ste. Marie - St Ignace DAY3 Mackinac Island - Traverse City DAY4 Holland - Chicago DAY5 Chicago City Tour

• During the maple season from 09/18/2024 to 10/10/2024 , an additional $60.00 per room per night will be surcharged. we can provide door-to-door pickup and drop-off to hotels in downtown Chicago (hotels need to be located within 5 miles of the boarding point) Service Fee: $30/person.  

5-Day Chicago to Indianapolis, Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Chattanooga and Mammoth Cave National Park Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-165

Available Days : Wed & Thu

Highlights : 1. Explore Motorsports Hall of Fame. 2. Be in the National Park with most visitors in US -- Great Smoky Mountains. 3. Southern dinner show Dixie Stampede featuring America’s civil war. 4. Tour in Lookout Mountain:  Rock City, Ruby Falls, Incline Railway. 5. Discover the stories behind the city’s most significant buildings such as Cloud Gate and Chicago Theatre. 6. Take an in-depth tour of the city of Chicago and visit 360 Chicago for a full 360-degree panoramic view of Chicago from above.7. Explore Millenium Park and Grant Park.   Itinerary for Thursday departures is as follows:DAY1 Chicago - Indianapolis - London, KYDAY2 London, KY - Great Smoky Mountains National Park - ChattanoogaDAY3 Chattanooga - Lookout MountainDAY4 Mammoth Cave National Park - Chicago DAY5 Chicago City Tour

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Go Visit Chicago Let's Discover the Windy City

Hop on hop off chicago: big bus tours chicago.

Victor Bus & Minivan Tours , Tours Leave a comment

Hop-On and Discover! Hop-Off and Explore! In my opinion, visit to Chicago isn't complete without an open-top hop on hop off sightseeing bus tour to explore the windy city.

Chicago Bus Tours: Hop-On Discover Hop-Off Explore

The Hop on Hop off Chicago is operated by Big Bus tours Chicago company. This Chicago bus tour is one of the best ways to visit top attractions and landmarks in Chicago. This hop on hop off Chicago bus tour allows you to explore and discover the windy city for one low priced ticket.

Hop-on Hop-off Chicago bus tour is guided tour featuring narration about Chicago’s famous attractions, landmarks, architecture and many similar along the way. Hop On bus from any stop, and hop off to explore top attractions including the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium and Magnificent Mile.

I recommend this Hop on Hop off Big Bus Chicago tour to first-time visitors. Also, try to get seat on the top-deck to enjoy the birds-eye view of the city skyscrapers and Lake Michigan. Make sure to carry your camera to capture some postcard-worthy photographs. Chicago is famous for modern architecture and construction.

Bestselling Hop on Hop off Chicago Bus Tour Tickets

Big Bus Chicago Tour Company is offering following best selling tickets. You can get more discounted price when you purchase tickets online.

• $40.50 – Big Bus Chicago Tour Classic Ticket – 1 Day hop on, hop off. This doesn’t include tickets to Centennial Wheel.
• $49.50 – Big Bus Chicago Tour Premium Ticket – 1 Day hop on, hop off tour with Centennial Wheel.
• $58.50 – Big Bus Chicago Tour Deluxe Ticket – 2 Day hop on, hop off tour with admission to Centennial Wheel.
• $75 – Big Bus Chicago Tour Skyscraper Combo Ticket – This discount offer includes 2 days of hop-on hop-off, plus admission to Willis Tower’s Skydeck and Chicago Architecture Center.

Why choose a Big Bus Chicago sightseeing tour?

• Best way to hop-on to discover and hop-off to explore Chicago’s best attractions and landmarks.
• Thoughtfully designed Big Bus Chicago tour routes include 14 stops located near best attractions, landmarks, museums and parks.
• I recommend you to visit these attraction and landmarks on the route: Chicago Riverwalk, the John Hancock Center, The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, Soldier Field, Grant Park, Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier.

Detailed Big Bus Tours Chicago Route

Big Bus Tours Chicago company classify the route as the Big Loop: Red Route bus tour . Following list of stops give you information about Big Bus Chicago tour’s route in the loop.

Stop 1: Chicago Riverwalk – 98 E Upper Wacker Drive See & Do: Magnificent Mile, Michigan Ave Bridge, Wrigley Building, Trump International Hotel & Tower, Tribune Tower

Stop 2: Chicago Theater & State St – 171 N State Street See & Do: Chicago Theater

Stop 3: Willis Tower & Skydeck Chicago – 319 W Jackson Blvd See & Do: Willis Tower & Skydeck Chicago

Stop 4: Millennium Park & Palmer House Hilton – 112 S Michigan Ave See & Do: Millennium Park, Palmer House Hilton

Stop 6: The Chicago Hilton & Grant Park – 800 S Michigan See & Do: Chicago Hilton, Grant Park, Buckingham Fountain

Stop 7: Adler Planetarium – 500 E Solidarity Drive See & Do: Adler Planetarium

Stop 8: Museum Campus – 424 E McFetridge Drive See & Do: Shedd Aquarium

Stop 9: Maggie Daley Park – 337 E Randolph St See & Do: The Field Museum , Home of Chicago Bears – Soldier Field, Chicago Segway Tours

Stop 10: Sheraton Grand Chicago – 441 N Columbus Drive See & Do: AQUA

Stop 11: Navy Pier – 600 E Grand Ave See & Do: Navy Pier

Stop 12: The Water Tower – 163 E Pearson St. See & Do: Magnificent Mile, Old Water Tower, Holy Name Cathedral

Stop 13: 360 Chicago – 150 E Chestnut St See & Do: Water Tower Place, 360 Chicago, Magnificent Mile

Stop 14: Hard Rock Cafe – 614 N Clark Street See & Do: Hard Rock Cafe, River North, Merchandise Mart

Overall, Hop-On, Hop-Off Chicago Day Tour is one of the best ways to discover and explore Chicago! You may also want to check out list of Chicago bus tours while planning your trip.

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Chicago Bus Tours

Pontarelli chicago bus tours.

Chicago is a magnificent city. With cultural attractions, impressive shopping venues, ample dining choices, and booming business opportunities, there is something for everyone in this famous metropolis. However, getting from one place to the next can be challenging with all this action. To enjoy all this city has to offer without any headaches or hassles, remember our Chicago Bus Tours .

Bus Tours in Chicago are an excellent consideration for anyone traveling in the Windy City. Being the country's third largest city, Chicago's traffic can often be challenging to navigate, and driving yourself from one tourist destination to the next can be costly and stressful. However, our Chicago Bus Tour can minimize this stress and allow travelers to focus on other elements of their visit.

Our Chicago Bus Service is exquisitely designed to cater to diverse travel requirements. A standout offering is the transportation service from O'Hare International Airport , one of Chicago's major airports. This service ensures seamless and comfortable transit to and from the airport.

Apart from airport transfers , our limousine services extend to various other needs. They are an excellent choice for corporate transportation , ensuring professionals arrive at their destinations punctually and in style. Our transportation services also add a touch of elegance to special events , be it weddings , proms, or other significant celebrations. Furthermore, we provide efficient shuttle services , catering to groups requiring reliable transportation. In essence, while some may perceive our Chicago Limo Service as a luxury, for many, it represents a practical choice that significantly enhances the quality of their travel experience.

Chicago Sports Tour

A huge part of Chicago's rich history is and always will be our legendary tradition in sports. From the World Champion Chicago Cubs and the iconic Wrigley Field to the one and only Soldier Field where the Chicago Bears play and, of course, the house that Michael Jordan built, the United Center , all of these teams and venues have become a huge part of Chicago tourism. Pontarelli will customize a Chicago Sports Tour to your exact specifications. Whether you're a sports fan or not, Chicago sports is a part of Chicago history. You will love the scenery, architecture, and breathtaking views. Inquire now about this fantastic tour!

Chicago Museums Tour

No trip to Chicago is complete without visiting its fine museums. First on your list should be the Field Museum , located at the Museum Campus just south of Grant Park . The Field Museum features "Sue," the world's most giant, complete, and best-preserved T-Rex. Museum Campus is also the site for the Adler Planetarium and the Shedd Aquarium . Also on your list of "must-sees" is Chicago's south-side Museum of Science and Industry , the oldest science museum of its kind in the Western Hemisphere and one of the most visited museums in the world. And on Michigan Avenue , where Adams Street ends, is the Art Institute of Chicago , with its famous lions adorning the front entrance. Chicago is rich in ethnic diversity, further evidenced by its museums. We also have the National Museum of Mexican Art and the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center .

Our Museums Tours in Chicago offer an excellent way to visit these cultural landmarks, providing a convenient and informative journey through the city's diverse museum landscape.

Family Secrets Tours

Pizza City, USA Tour

Highlight Tour

Try sightseeing in Chicago with a guide who speaks your language! Our deluxe, 3-hour Chicago sightseeing tours offers commentary on the Chicago history, architecture and daily life of this modern metropolis.

During your Chicago Sightseeing Tour you will see what has made Chicago famous: The Loop, Michigan Avenue’s “Magnificent Mile,” three of the tallest buildings in the world, Lake Shore Drive and art works by Picasso, Miró, Chagall and others. You’ll see where Fort Dearborn stood, the Water Tower that survived the Great Chicago Fire, beautiful Lincoln and Grant Parks, the one and only Navy Pier and much, much more.

A picture stop on Solidarity Drive will provide a magnificent view of Chicago’s Skyline.

The World Of Art Stained Glass Tour

The beauty of stained glass windows and art glass is evident throughout Chicago. From the geometric designs of Frank Lloyd Wright to the religious and mosaic masterpieces of Tiffany, Chicago is a haven for this stained glass.

During the course of the tour, you will visit the beautiful Second Presbyterian Church, which houses several Tiffany windows, and stop at the Navy Pier to see the Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows. The Marshall Field’s “Marble Palace” boasts a 6,000 sq. ft. Tiffany Dome created with 1.6 million pieces of favrile glass.

City in a Garden Tour

Often hailed as "Urbs in Horto" or "City in a Garden," Chicago has made significant strides in cultivating its parks and scenic boulevards. Our Chicago Bus Tour  can offer an immersive journey through the city’s expansive Park District , highlighting a tapestry of ornamental gardens, plant conservatories, bird sanctuaries, serene lagoons, and the beautifully landscaped lakefront. This tour provides a unique perspective, traversing the intricate network of boulevards designed to connect the sprawling parks on the South, West, and North sides of Chicago.

As we travel, the Chicago Tour Bus will explore the historical context and the exciting future developments planned for these green spaces. Key stops include the Garfield Park Conservatory , renowned for its botanical beauty and architectural grandeur. Additionally, the tour can feature various picturesque locations across Chicago, offering a comprehensive view of the city's commitment to preserving and enhancing its natural and urban landscapes. This experience highlights the city's green heritage and is dedicated to environmental beauty and urban planning.

Our fleet , a stunning array of modern sophistication and comfort, is the foundation of your Chicago Bus Tours experience. Traverse the vibrant streets of Chicago in unparalleled luxury with vehicles like the sleek Volvo S90 or the opulent Mercedes S Class, ideal for those desiring a more intimate exploration of the city. Our Luxury Coach or Motor Coach provides a spacious and communal setting for larger groups, perfect for experiencing Chicago's architectural marvels and cultural landmarks together. And for a touch of charm and historical elegance, our Classic American Heritage Trolley offers a delightful journey through Chicago's bustling streets and serene parks, blending old-world allure with modern-day excitement. Each option in our fleet is designed to enrich your Chicago journey, ensuring every moment is as comfortable as it is unforgettable.

Explore Chicago's Rich Tapestry with Pontarelli Limo Service

If you're eager to delve into Chicago's architectural and cultural wonders, contact us for an enriching Chicago Bus Tour experience. Contact us at 312 361 4111, email [email protected], or request a quote through our website. Secure your reservation online, and let us guide you on a journey that displays Chicago's iconic landmarks, rich history, and vibrant cityscape. Our Bus Tours in Chicago promise a memorable exploration, revealing the multifaceted beauty of the Windy City beyond the holiday season. Join us and create lasting memories as you discover the heart of Chicago.

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Which Chicago Bus Tours Are Best?

City, gangster, and beer tours.

Sometimes when we're leading one of our many tours in Chicago, we'll receive questions about whether or not any of the bus tours in this city are worth the time and money.

With that in mind, we've created this helpful guide to give you an idea of how much each bus tour costs, what you can expect to see, how long it lasts, and other important details.

This post reviews and compares the many different Chicago bus tours, double-decker hop-on-hop-off, gangster, and more, some of which are included for free with tourist passes.

• Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tours
• Sightseeing Non-Stop Tours
• Night Tours
• Gangster Tours
• Beer + Distillery Tours
• Combos + Deals

Tips From Locals and Travelers

Disclosure:  We think you should consider our free tours, but we have also provided other options. While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

HOP-ON-HOP-OFF DOUBLE-DECKER BUS TOUR

A popular option for bus tours is the hop-on-hop-off tour variety.

All the double-decker buses in this section run continuously along mapped routes, and riders have the option to board at several predetermined locations throughout the city.

Travelers can get off the bus at any of these stops and discover the landmarks for themselves. After exploring various areas of Chicago, hop back onto the bus and continue your journey!

There are pre-recorded commentaries that tell you about what you're seeing.

Each ticket will be valid for a certain amount of time (typically 24-48 hours) and you can come and go as you please.

Ticket prices range from $19-$49 for adults and $14-$35 for children, depending on which kind of tour is chosen from which company.

Read our full comparison post on hop-on-hop-off bus tours , where we detail the pros and cons, route maps, and options for discounts.

NON-STOP SIGHTSEEING TOURS 

Although hop-on-hop-off bus tours can be very informative, they are designed for exploring the city to allow you to pick your stops and explore at your own pace.

Non-stop sightseeing tours are about guiding you through a specific area, with a live guide's commentary covering the significance of iconic landmarks and the history of an area.

Note that "non-stop" is a bit of a misnomer, as they do stop from time to time, but they make the choice about which sites they will be taking people to.

While some trips are focused on how Chicago became such a bustling city of industry, other tours center their attention on the architectural history of the Windy City.

Most of these services are very highly rated and tickets will cost between $30-$50 for adults and $15-$37 for children.

1. See It All Mini Tour

See It All offers a two-hour experience that allows you to experience a large part of the city, with three great photo stops! 

Expert guides will provide information about the interesting parts of the windy city while you take in the various sights and sounds.

This company offers hotel pick-ups at most locations downtown . Simply select your hotel (or the hotel nearest you) at the time of booking.

This tour company has a 5 out of 5 stars  rating on TripAdvisor ( read the reviews ).

Several comments suggest that the See It All tour is a great introduction to the city for visitors who may not be familiar with their surroundings. 

The tour passes by and through many of Chicago's major attractions and neighborhoods with guides discovering the rich history of the city.

Tour Highlights

• The Magnificent Mile | Tribune Tower, 360 Observation Deck, John Hancock Building , Wrigley Building
• Navy Pier | Lake Michigan
• Millenium Park | The Bean, Pritzker Pavillion, Crown Fountain, and more. Read about 9 Things to Do in Millenium Park here.
• Chicago River | Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, Marina City
• Buckingham Fountain | Grant Park , Art Institute of Chicago
• Museum Campus | Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Soldier Field, Adler Planetarium, and much more
• Lincoln Park | Lincoln Park Zoo, gardens, fountains, sculptures, and more. You can take our Lincoln Park Blues and Gangster Tour while you're there.
• Gold Coast | restaurants, upscale neighborhoods, the Original Playboy Mansion
• Skydeck Chicago | The Willis (Sears) Tower
• The Rookery Building | Frank Lloyd Wright-designed
• The Art Institute of Chicago

Standard Prices 

• Adults: $46.95
• Children: $36.95 (ages 4-12)
• Infants Free (0-3)
• Purchase tickets here .

Note that the tour makes a stop for photos at the Museum Campus because it has one of the best views of the Chicago Skyline.

You're also able to add on an upgrade for an open-top boat ride down the Chicago River.

2. Chicago Architecture Foundation Tours

Chicago is world-renowned for its architecture, and you can see the best of it on this bus tour!

Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF) has been the cultural ambassador of Chicago architecture since 1966 and is the world’s largest public architecture organization.

With a 5-star rating on TripAdvisor, the Chicago Architecture Foundation is one of the highest-rated attractions in the city.

They have partnered with Big Bus Tour to bring you 4 tours that cover various points of interest, some of which they'll stop at.

Churches by Bus

• Visits Church on the South and Near West Sides of Chicago
• Cost: $50 public | $43 CAC Members
• Duration: 5 hours
• Find more information
• Purchase tickets here
• Not currently available.

Devil in the White City

• Visits locations from the book Devil in the White City one which covered a dark side of Chicago history
• Dates: 1st & 3rd Saturday from May - August
• Duration: 3.25 hours

Murals By Bus: Bronzeville

• Visits the historic Bronzeville neighborhood, covering a range of important topics while taking in its notable public murals
• Duration: 3.5 hours

Gothic Chicago by Bus

• Covers how the Gothic style of the late 19th and early 20th centuries was captured by Chicago architects

TIP: If you are interested in Chicago architecture, check out our pay-what-you-wish architecture tours .

NIGHT BUS TOURS OF CHICAGO 

As with most cities, Chi-town really changes when the sun goes down. All of the buildings begin to light up and the city really starts to shine.

Thankfully, some of the bus tour companies in the area provide services during the night. 

Night tours in Chicago are very highly rated. Most of these options are offered for free with a hop-on-hop-off bus tour.

Big Bus Night Tours

Discover how the Windy City changes when the sun goes down with this memorable panoramic night bus tour!

Reviews of the night tour from Big Bus Tours are mostly positive. They have a 4.5-star rating out of 5 stars on Trip Advisor.

Many of the positive comments mention that the tour guides are very informative and make the experience even more fun.

Some guests were happy with the comfort of their air-conditioned buses, while others were simply pleased that this was a live guided tour rather than a pre-recorded informative trip. 

There are a few negative comments, but they all take issue with different problems that do not appear to have anything in common.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chicago 🏙 Travel | Hotels | Food | Tips (@chicago.explore)

Sunset Live Tour

• Visits Navy Pier, the Magnificent Mile, the Museum Campus, Loop, and more.
• Cost: Adult from $45 | Children from $31.50
• Dates: May-October
• Starts: 7:30 at Navy Pier
• Duration: 90 minutes

Sunset Live Tour + 360 Chicago & Cocktail

• Stops at the John Hancock 360 Observation Deck for a cocktail
• Cost: starts at $90
• Duration: 90 minutes for the tour plus extra time for the visit to the observation deck

Note that Big Bus has a free mobile app that can be downloaded to see where the bus is along the route. It can be downloaded here .

DARK BUT INTERESTING TOURS

Chicago has a noted history of criminal organizations and unusual crimes. Unfortunately, the tales we’ve heard from Hollywood don’t often tell the whole story.

In order to learn more about what really happened in the windy city, it’s important to learn the history from an expert.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Crime Tours (@crimetours)

Several bus tour companies in the area provide trips around some of the more historically relevant sites in the city, detailing some of the more infamous events that took place.

These bus tours are typically rated very well, and guests enjoy learning a lot about Chi-town’s disturbing past. Ticket prices range from $30-$46 per adult.

1. Chicago Mob and Crime Bus Tour

Curious about the world-famous mobsters, crime lords, and gangsters from the 19th century on?

Take a ride in style with the climate-controlled Black Limousine Bus and see the underworld of Chicago in an hour and a half guided tour.

• The Untouchables
• H.H. Holmes
• St. Valentine’s Day Massacre
• Biograph Theatre
• Holy Name Cathedral
• John Dillinger

The bus operates 7 days a week at the below times.  The website advises guests to arrive 10 minutes early to check-in. Tours last 90 minutes.

• Standard price: $46
• Tour length: 1.5 hours long
• Departing from: 163 E. Pearson Street
• Tours take place 7 days a week

2. Weird Chicago Tours

This tour company a number of different tours covering some of the darker parts of Chicago's past.

If you want to take a peak into the seedier side of Chicago's history, you will be sure to find one of these tours interesting.

Tours On Offer

• Devil and the White City Bus Tour | Chicago's First HH Holmes Tour
• Haunted History Bus Tour | Chicago's Best Ghost Tour
• Al Capone Daydrinkers Pub Crawl | Adults Only Pub Tour
• True Crime and Mystery Bus Tour | The City's Most Macrabre Tour
• Roaring 20s Speakeasy Bus Tour | The Probhibition Tour of What Made Chicago Wild
• Blood, Guns & Valentines Gangster Bus Tour | An Authenic "Public Enemies" Tour
• Bus Tours | $30 per adult | $25 per child (under 12)
• Pub Crawls | $35 per person
• Departing from: 600 North Clark Street
• Tours take place on Saturdays

3. Untouchable Tours

Step into the 1920s with this 2 hour themed, guided tour! Known as the original Gangster Tour of Chicago, you’ll listen to the guides talk in slang as you learn about the true 1930’s Windy City.

There is no walking, so you’ll see all of the infamous spots from the comfort of the climate-controlled bus.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Untouchable Tours (@untouchabletours)

• Get the inside scoop on the windiest politicians, the red light district, and the notorious crime scene of the Prohibition Era
• St. Valentine's Day Massacre
• The Biograph Theatre
• By a 30-year-old company
• Bus Tours | $45 per person + $2.18 service fee
• Departing from 600 block of North Clark
• The tour schedule varies from month to month

BEER AND DISTILLERY TOURS

Discover the history behind Chicago’s finest alcoholic beverage by taking a bus tour.

These companies will actually drive you to a variety of different breweries and distilleries in the Chi-town area. Each location you visit will typically offer a variety of free drinks and taste-testing opportunities.

These trips will last for between 3 and 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore each of the stops on the tour of your choice. Expect to pay $65-$75 per ticket.

The Barrel Run

Last but certainly not least, this tour provides samples of local brews and liquors with their Chicago Breweries tour and their  Distilleries tour.

Did we mention you ride around in a large barrel-shaped bus? 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Barrel Run (@thebarrelrun)

Brewery Tour

• Visits Chicago-area breweries with beer samples and an in-depth tour
• Cost: Adult $99.60
• Tours take place Thursday, Friday, and Saturday
• Duration: 3 hours 45 minutes
• Picks up from 600 N Clark Street
• Find information and book tickets here  

Distillery Tour

• Visits three local craft distilleries with samples at each and a tour of one of the facilities
• Find information and book tickets here  

They do offer a private Gangster Prohibition Tour , and you can contact them  to find out more information.

9 CHICAGO BUS TOUR DEALS

Many Chicago tour bus companies provide a variety of discounts on tickets. This section will describe a few of the best ways to get a good deal on Chicago bus tours.

We will also cover some common deals that might not be available at the moment but could be offered at some point in the future.

1. Tourist Passes

Companies like Big Bus offer their tours through Chicago tourist passes.

Chicago All-Inclusive Passes, Chicago Explorer Passes, and Prepackaged passes allow you to pay one flat price for multiple activities and attractions throughout the city.

You can use a tourist pass to save up to 50% off a variety of fun things to see and do in the Windy City, including the following:

• 360 Chicago
• Skydeck Chicago
• Shedd Aquarium
• Shoreline Architecture Cruise
• Museum of Science and Industry
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Read about each service and what they have to offer in our post about Chicago tourist passes .

2. Combo Packages

These combinations can provide decent savings for travelers who are looking to experience multiple activities in Chicago.

Tour companies sometimes combine their services with other popular activities and attractions in Chicago to give tourists and travelers a chance to save some money on tickets.

Learn more about combo packages for Chicago bus tours .

3. Deal Sites

Chicago bus tour companies often provide their services through websites such as Groupon and Living Social . Each of these websites provides deals on local activities.

At times, they will also provide promotional credits you can apply in addition to whatever deal they are already offering in order to save even more money!

4. Children's Tickets

Some Chicago bus tour companies will offer discounts of up to $20 off for children's tickets. Most of them also provide free tickets for children under the age of 3.

5. Senior Discount

There are not currently any senior discounts offered by any of the companies listed above, but that could change with time.

We recommend contacting them to ask whether or not their policy has changed before purchasing your ticket.

6. Student Discount

This is another common type of deal which is not currently offered by any of the companies listed above. Make sure to ask ahead of time to see if they have changed this recently.

7. Military Discount

Sadly, this type of deal is also not available with any of the tour companies listed above, but they may change their minds if you call to ask about it!

8. Group Rates

Some Chicago bus tour companies do offer group rates for large groups of people, but you have to call ahead and order your tickets directly to get this deal.

Currently, Big Bus is the only hop-on-hop-off bus tour offering group rates.

9. AAA Deal

There aren't currently any AAA deals available for the services listed above, but we recommend checking your own account to see if they have any deals you can take advantage of before purchasing a ticket.

Although we do our absolute best to provide all the details you'll need to enjoy a Chicago bus tour, there's always a chance that we might miss something.

That's one of many reasons that we have a Chicago Travel Tips group on Facebook, where travelers can ask questions about any tour or activity of interest.

Here are a few of the more helpful comments we found:

When it comes to the hop on hop off tours, most people agree that they're a very useful way to become familiar with the city and figure out where everything is located.

That said, there are some things you might want to consider before purchasing tickets, as this next comment reveals.

As one of our group members notes, when you're using a tourist pass to get tickets for a hop on hop off bus tour, chances are it will only be a 1 day ticket.

Even if you get a 2 day pass, it's very likely the bus tour ticket will only be valid for 1 day.

Other Chicago bus tours are more hit and miss when it comes to the reviews. While some people really enjoyed the Mob and Crime tour, others felt it wasn't anything special.

Thankfully, this isn't an extremely common sentiment, and it does seem that a majority of people who took this tour had a lot of fun.

For even more helpful advice and suggestions, make sure to check our Chicago Travel Tips Facebook Group and consider leaving a comment if you can't find the information you want.

And much, much more

About the author.

Stephen Pickhardt

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Protect Your Trip »

The 14 Best Chicago Tours

Foodies, architecture buffs and historians alike will appreciate these tours of the Windy City.

Getty Images

There are a variety of ways to see Chicago's best sights.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may have limited or ceased operations due to COVID-19. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

One of the best ways to sightsee your way through a new city is with the help of a local. With this in mind, U.S. News rounded up 14 of Chicago 's best guided tours. Whether you're sailing past Willis Tower on a river cruise or sampling some of Chicago's best deep-dish pizza on a foodie excursion, you'll gain a cultural and historical understanding of the Windy City during these tours.

Chicago Food Planet – Gateway to the West Loop Food Tour

Chicago Food Planet's Gateway to the West Loop spotlights some of the tastiest dishes in the city – specifically pizza, doughnuts and burgers. The three-hour tour centers on the West Loop neighborhood's incredible food scene and provides insider insights to the history and culture of the area. Guides regularly win praise from travelers for their knowledge and enthusiasm. Ticket prices start at $65 for adults and $50 for children ages 12 and younger. Reviewers find the tour worth the price for the generous amounts of food provided. What's more, group sizes are restricted to 14 people and tours do not involve extensive walking. Tours are offered Thursday through Sunday at 1 p.m. Chicago Food Planet also offers tours of Chicago's Chinatown neighborhood.

[ View & Book Tickets .]

Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours – Chicago Lakefront/Museum Campus

The Chicago Lakefront/Museum Campus tour offered by Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours showcases many of the city's most popular attractions , including Millennium Park (the starting point), Grant Park, Monroe Harbor, the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium , Soldier Field and the Adler Planetarium. The 8-mile journey on easy-to-ride, two-wheeled, battery-powered vehicles lasts approximately 2 1/2 hours. Participants praise tour guides for their insight and professionalism. Tickets cost approximately $65, depending on date and time. Note that riders must be at least 12 years old. Tours are available daily. The company offers several other tours, some centered around other parts of the city or with specific themes like architecture, crime and ghosts.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 .]

Inside Chicago Walking Tours – Dazzling Interiors of the Loop

Inside Chicago Walking Tours' The World Within: Dazzling Interiors of the Loop tour reveals interior architectural details that visitors might otherwise miss. Highlights of the two-hour tour include a gilded 80-foot-high ceiling, art deco lobbies, early Frank Lloyd Wright designs and rooms with stained-glass mosaics. Reviewers describe this tour, which involves about 1 1/2 miles of walking, as an informative and entertaining way to learn about the history of Chicago and its diverse, distinctive buildings. Tickets start at $30 for participants 11 and older and $25 for children ages 5 to 10 and patrons 65 and older. Children ages 4 and younger tour for free. Outings run Saturdays at 11 a.m. Inside Chicago also offers other architecture-oriented tours as well as private tours.

Courtesy of Bobby's Bike Hike Chicago

Bobby's Bike Hike offers several different tours, including a 13-mile Bikes, Bites & Brews tour.

Bobby's Bike Hike Chicago – Bikes, Bites & Brews Tour – Signature Dishes

This triple threat tour combines bicycling, food and beer. The four-hour, 13-mile ride traverses the Gold Coast, Lakeview, Wrigleyville and Lincoln Park neighborhoods with stops for pizza, beer, cupcakes and hot dogs. Reviewers find the tour provides a great introduction to the city and rate the guides highly. Tickets for adults, which include the bike rental as well as food and drinks, start at $76.99 for weekday rides (weekend rides are slightly more expensive). Participants must be at least 21 years old. If you're traveling with kids, try Bobby's Bike Hike Chicago's Family Food & Bike Tour.

Chicago Pizza Tours – Original Chicago Pizza Tour

Experience one of Chicago's unique culinary phenomena with the Original Chicago Pizza Tour. On this 3 1/2-hour tour, you'll visit four independently run neighborhood pizzerias and sample six or more slices. Many reviewers praise the informative and entertaining tour guides. Others insist that the tour is about more than just pizza and encompasses Chicago history, architecture and culture. Tickets start at $60 for adults and $36 for children. If you're interested in exploring the city's pizza from other angles, you can take one of the company's other food tours, which combine pizza and cocktails or focus on the city's biggest slices.

Courtesy of Big Bus Chicago

Big Bus Chicago's tours give tourists the opportunity to see Chicago's sites at their leisure.

Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Big Bus Chicago's Hop-On Hop-Off Tours permit guests to tailor excursions to their preferences by allowing them to spend as much time as they want at any of the 12 stops within the eight hours of the standard package. Tour-takers can "hop off" a bus and spend time at popular destinations like Skydeck Chicago , Navy Pier, Soldier Field or Millennium Park and then "hop on" a later bus. Buses run every 30 to 45 minutes and include guides that provide commentary. Travelers frequently describe guides as entertaining and informative. One pain point for riders is the signage: some found it difficult to locate the bus stops at certain attractions. Ticket prices start at $49 for adults and $30 for children (though you may be able to score a discount by purchasing online in advance). In addition to its classic ticket, Big Bus Chicago offers a premium ticket valid for two days.

Tastebud Tours – Taste of Chicago

Tastebud Tours' Taste of Chicago explores the city's downtown Loop area. The three-hour tour includes stops at multiple restaurants and shops for distinctive Chicago deep-dish pizza, popcorn, sandwiches and sweets. The tour also highlights non-food-related landmarks like the Chicago Cultural Center, the Art Institute of Chicago and the Marshall Field and Company Building, which visitors tend to appreciate. Guides consistently win praise for their knowledge of and enthusiasm for Chicago history. Tickets, which start at $59.50, include all food. (Adult beverages can be purchased separately where available.) Groups are limited to 18 people. Tastebud Tours also offers other food-centric excursions as well as private tours.

Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise

The Chicago Architecture Foundation's River Cruise ferries guests along the Chicago River as docents from the Chicago Architecture Center regale them with the stories behind more than 50 notable buildings. The volunteer docents repeatedly win high praise from reviewers for their in-depth knowledge of the city's history and its structures. The cruising vessels, part of the Chicago's First Lady Cruises fleet, can carry up to 250 people and boast full-service bars and open-air upper decks. Tickets for the 90-minute excursions cost around $45 for daytime cruises. Twilight outings are a few dollars more. For an additional $5, you can also gain admittance to the Chicago Architecture Center (which usually costs $12 on its own).

Courtesy of Chicago Prohibition Tours

Guides on Chicago Prohibition Tours can offer travelers suggestions on Prohibition-inspired drinks to order

Chicago Prohibition Tour – Original

Chicago Prohibition Tours explore a notoriously eventful moment in the city's history. Its flagship offering visits the sites of four former speakeasies via bus over the course of 3 1/2 hours. Guides provide historical information and share what kinds of drinks would be representative of those consumed illicitly during the Prohibition era. Additionally, you will be driven from location to location by the company. Reviewers rave about the fast-talking guide and say this is an experience both locals and visitors will enjoy. Others appreciate that each bar on the tour is unique. Tickets, which start at $55, do not include food or drinks, which can be ordered separately at tour-takers' discretion. There is also a walking version of this tour that lasts 2 1/2 hours.

Urban Kayak Chicago Riverwalk – Historic Chicago Tour

For a "duck's-eye," up-close view of the city, take Urban Kayak's Historic Chicago Tour. Starting at the Riverwalk , tour-takers paddle their kayaks on the main branch of the Chicago River with periodic stops at points of historical interest, where guides provide information regarding the city's famed architecture. Reviewers say this is a great experience, even for beginners. Meanwhile, others note that the experienced guides are skillful at navigating boat traffic. Tickets cost approximately $65 for a single kayak or $130 for a tandem (two-person) kayak for the approximately two-hour tour. Urban Kayak also offers kayak rentals and paddleboarding classes.

Shoreline Sightseeing – Skyline Lake Tours

Shoreline Sightseeing Skyline Lake Tours offer unrivaled views of Chicago's skyline, and many photo opportunities, via cruises along the Lake Michigan shoreline. The 6-mile trip provides views of notable landmarks, such as the John Hancock Center, the Willis Tower (aka the Sears Tower), Adler Planetarium and the Field Museum . According to reviewers, these iconic buildings are much more visible from the water than they are on the street. Many say this tour was the highlight of their Chicago trip. Tickets for the 40-minute, narrated boat rides start at $23 for adults and $8 for children ages 3 to 12. Kids 2 and younger ride free. Travelers can purchase drinks at the onboard cash bar. Shoreline Sightseeing also offers architecture-focused tours along the Chicago River.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 .]

Ken Flisek | Courtesy of Tall Ship Windy

The Tall Ship Windy provides tourists an enjoyable sailing and sightseeing experience.

Tall Ship Windy – Chicago Skyline Sail

Tall Ship Windy's Chicago Skyline Sail features views of the city from the deck of a 148-foot, four-masted schooner. Reviewers tout the remarkable views of the city's impressive structures and, weather-permitting, the special experience of being able to actually sail and not rely on the boat's motor. What's more, tour participants commend the crew members for their professionalism. Tickets for the summer and fall excursions start at $37 for adults and $17 for children ages 12 and younger; infants 12 months and younger ride for $1. Tall Ship Windy has a full bar on board (drinks are not included in the ticket price.) In addition to the daily 75-minute excursions, Tall Ship Windy offers fireworks cruises on select dates as well as pirate-themed outings.

Chicago Crime Tours

Chicago Crime Tours explore famous crime scenes in a variety of Chicago neighborhoods, including the Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, the Loop, the Magnificent Mile , Old Town and River North. The bus tour, which lasts about two hours, includes stops at the spots where gangsters like Hymie Weiss were killed as well as the site of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre. It also visits locales associated with Al Capone, Frank "the Enforcer" Nitti and Leopold and Loeb, among others. Reviewers laud the tours for providing a unique angle on Chicago's colorful history. Tickets cost approximately $40 and can be purchased in advance (advised) or on the bus. A nighttime crime tour and a pizza and crime walking tour are also available.

City Cruises by Hornblower – Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour

Zip across Lake Michigan during this high-speed, musically enhanced 30-minute tour. During the ride, you'll see striking views of the Chicago skyline and hear some descriptions of the sights. Visitors praise the crew's knowledge and charisma. They also enjoy whipping along the waves. Tickets cost about $30 for adults and $20 for kids ages 3 to 12. Children ages 2 and younger ride free, but do require a ticket. The boat is open-air, which means travelers might get wet. City Cruises runs a myriad of other boating adventures, including an extreme thrill ride.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Chicago Walking Tours
• The Best Chicago Segway Tours
• The Best Chicago Boat Tours
• The Best Things to Do in Chicago
• The Best Hotels in Chicago
• The Top Romantic Getaways in Illinois

Tags: Chicago , Travel , food and drink , Vacations , Tours , Illinois Vacations , Midwest Vacations , US Vacations

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Officials: Bus driver, 7 students hurt after charter buses crash on I-85 in Gaston County

The crash happened on i-85 north near the east ozark avenue exit..

GASTONIA, N.C. (WBTV) - Two charter buses carrying a total of 85 students were involved in a crash on I-85 in Gaston County on Friday morning, the Gastonia Police Department said.

Officials said the crash was reported around 9:45 a.m. on the northbound side near the exit to East Ozark Avenue.

Police stated that due to heavy traffic the first bus applied the breaks, but the other bus driver could not stop their bus fast enough and rear-ended the bus in front. The second bus left the roadway and ran into the woods during the crash.

The buses were carrying approximately 85 students and 21 chaperones from Gettys Middle School in Pickens County, S.C., to Carowinds for a field trip.

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A spokesperson from the School District of Pickens County said seven students and a bus driver were taken to the hospital. None of the injuries are said to be serious.

The Gastonia Police Department stated that the bus driver was cited for failure to reduce speed.

Parents and guardians of students involved in the crash have been notified.

The NC Department of Transportation said one lane had been closed in the area, but it has since reopened.

Download the free WBTV News app for updates and breaking news.

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Copyright 2024 WBTV. All rights reserved.

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