city bus tour chicago

(312) 659-8687

city bus tour chicago

Chicago Minibus Tour

With the option to add the, chicago river architecture boat tour, our comfortable, climate controlled, award-winning chicago mini-bus tour takes you on an entertaining, narrated journey through the downtown area, and to several distinct neighborhoods., you’ll learn about the windy city's colorful past, cosmopolitan present and exciting future., photo stops include: the buckingham fountain * the loop/rookery building the riverfront/wrigley building amazing skyline view/lakefront lincoln park ** * may-october ** november-april, below are some of the many famous sights you will see:.

city bus tour chicago

The Loop Millennium Park

city bus tour chicago

Museum Campus & Skyline View

city bus tour chicago

Buckingham Fountain

city bus tour chicago

Chicago River

city bus tour chicago

Lincoln Park

city bus tour chicago

Loop/Millennium Park

Millennium park.

city bus tour chicago

Museum Campus

city bus tour chicago

Adults: $46.95 * Children: $36.95 (ages 4-12) *

(children 3 and under ride free when not occupying a separate seat), 10:00 am, 1:00 pm tuesday-sunday 2 hour tour, with 4 photo stops., (stops and route subject to change) complimentary pickups available from most downtown hotels., for reservations call: (312) 659-8687, or click the 'book now" button below * enter promo code 'mini' to receive $5.00 off per person, parking if you are not staying downtown, we can pick you up from the front of: the doubletree hotel magnificent mile- 300 e. ohio st. parking is available in several structures surrounding the hotel. go to www.spothero.com for reduced parking prices. there is nobody to check in with. please be waiting on the ohio st. side of the hotel. pickup time at the doubletree is 9:30 for the 10:00 tour and 12:30 for the 1:00.

city bus tour chicago

Chicago Minibus Tour plus the Chicago River Architecture Boat Tour

At the conclusion of your chicago mini bus tour, we’ll take you to the magnificent mile. there, you will board a shoreline sightseeing chicago river architecture tour boat, architecture, you’ll enjoy a 75-minute cruise along the scenic chicago river in a large open air tour boat, while learning a thing or twenty about architecture, chicago history and even how to reverse the direction of a river, not to bury the lead, but there is a bar on the boat, for those in need of a refreshing or relaxing libation., this tour ends at michigan ave and wacker drive. most downtown hotels are within a mile of this location. , chicago minibus tour plus the popular chicago river architecture boat tour , adults: $95.95 * children: $65.95 (ages 4-12) *, 10:00 am, 1:00 pm tuesday-sunday, mini bus + boat tours together last approximately 4 hours. the mini bus and boat tours do not have to be taken consecutively. complimentary pickups available from most downtown hotels., or click the 'book now" button below * enter promo code 'boat' to receive $8.00 off per person, parking if you are not staying downtown, we can pick you up from the front of: the doubletree hotel magnificent mile- 300 e. ohio st. parking is available in several structures surrounding the hotel. go to www.spothero.com for reduced parking prices. there is nobody to check in with. please be waiting on the ohio st. side of the hotel. pickup time at the doubletree is 9:30 for the 10:00 tour and 12:30 for the 1:00 the chicago river architecture boat tour begins and ends less than 3 short blocks from the doubletree magnificent mile., private chicago tours, just you and your family and friends is the most convenient way to tour, our chicago bus tour picks you up and drops you off at your hotel or anywhere else in  downtown chicago. at the end of the tour, we can drop you off pretty much anywhere, too. want to finish at millennium park fine. the willis tower sure. the art institute of chicago, no problem. our other tours pick you up, but even then, you generally have to ride around to several more hotels while we pick up the others on your tour. with our private tour, we pick you up and away you go, when you are touring with others, you’re usually expected to be quiet and respectful of them. on a private tour, you can let loose, tell inside jokes, laugh and just be silly. bottom line, you can have more fun as for the tour itinerary, you can either leave that up to us, or we can focus on the things that you want to see. private tours are, of course, fully customizable., private chicago sightseeing tour prices, 1-11 people 2-hours: $479 3-hours: $599 4-hours: $699 12 or more: call for pricing, (prices include 9% city and 3% county amusement taxes), for this tour, you must call us at (312) 659-8687 to book.

How long are the tours? Our Chicago mini bus tour is two hours. The combination with the bus and Chicago River Architecture boat tour about 3.5-4 hours.

Where do we start the tour? Our tour picks up at most of the downtown Chicago hotels. If you are not staying at one of them, give us a call and we’ll tell you where to go (in the nicest possible sense).

Will there definitely be seats for us? Yes. Several of our competitors over-sell their tours, so that sometimes there are seats, sometimes not. Once you reserve with us, your seats will be yours for the entire tour. Also, our seats are nice and plush. Not plastic seats or wooden benches.

Can we take lots of photos? Absolutely. While you can take pics throughout the tour, we have 3 (sometimes 4) photo stops. They are located in the best places to get the most amazing pictures of Chicago.

Can we easily ask questions of our guide? Our mini buses hold just 14 guests. That way, you’ll be close to the guide and able to ask questions (and get correct answers)

Are Your Tour Guides Experienced? Our guides are all very experienced and knowledgeable about Chicago. They have all lived here for at least 20 years. You can ask them anything.

Will we see anything designed by Frank Lloyd Wright? Only a couple of walking tours and ours take you inside one of the first skyscrapers ever built, The Rookery. The awe inspiring lobby was designed by Mr. Wright. You may recognize it from the movies “The Untouchables” and “Home Alone Part 2”.

How does the architecture boat tour portion work? At the end of your mini bus tour, we will take you to the Shoreline Sightseeing dock on Michigan Ave. The boat tours leave about every 30-45 minutes and you can use your tickets at any time, even on a different day. Let’s say that it is raining or too hot (or both), you have the option to wait until a better time to ride the boat.

Testimonials

See what hundreds of other people are saying about us on:.

city bus tour chicago

For Chicago sightseeing tour reservations call: (312) 659-8687. You can also email us by filling out the form below.

Connect With Us

Copyright © 2023  See It All Chicago Tours

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of Chicago for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy Chicago without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

  • Things to Do
  • Food & Drink
  • Time Out Market
  • Coca-Cola Foodmarks
  • Attractions
  • Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

navy pier skyline

The best Chicago bus tours

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

Annalise Mantz

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

An email you’ll actually love

Best Chicago bus tours

Chicago Architecture Aficionados Bus Tour

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

Chicago Craft Brewery Barrel Bus Tour

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

Pullman National Monument Bus Tour

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

Chicago Pizza History Bus Tour

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

Chicago Night Crimes Tour

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

World’s Fair Bus Tour

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

Wright Around Chicago Bus Tour

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

Chicago Film Tour

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

South Side Essentials Bus Tour

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

North Side Essentials Bus Tour

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

Big Bus Chicago Hop-on Hop-off Tour

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

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

  • Press office
  • Investor relations
  • Work for Time Out
  • Editorial guidelines
  • Privacy notice
  • Do not sell my information
  • Cookie policy
  • Accessibility statement
  • Terms of use
  • Copyright agent
  • Modern slavery statement
  • Manage cookies
  • Advertising

Time Out products

  • Time Out Worldwide

Time Out magazine

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

Company Logo - Home Link

Which Chicago Bus Tours Are Best?

City, gangster, and beer tours.

city bus tour chicago

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.

See It All Mini Bus Tours Chicago

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:

city bus tour chicago

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.

city bus tour chicago

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.

city bus tour chicago

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.

city bus tour chicago

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.

Chicago Travel Tips and Hacks

And much, much more

About the author.

city bus tour chicago

Stephen Pickhardt

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

Go Chicago

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.

city bus tour chicago

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

  • Intermission Bar + Kitchen at Cambria Chicago Loop
  • Beatrix Loop
  • Cambria Hotel Chicago
  • Music & Theatre
  • Bars & Breweries
  • Happy Hours
  • Vegetarian & Healthy
  • Historic Chicago Hotels
  • Boutique Hotels
  • Electronics
  • Health & Beauty
  • Kids' Clothing in the Loop
  • Men's Clothing
  • Sundays on State
  • Loop Events
  • In the Loop News and local tips
  • Why invest?
  • Loop Advisories
  • Elevate State
  • Research & Resources
  • Want to stay in the Loop?

Stay Connected, Be Informed, Expand Your Reach

Chicago Loop Alliance (CLA) is a member-based business organization that represents Chicago's most dynamic mixed-use district - the Loop - and advocates for the rapidly growing central business district. Learn more about our membership benefits and hear directly from CLA members about their experience.

CLA Join Brochure

  • Member Events
  • Members & Partners
  • Search Submit Search

city bus tour chicago

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

city bus tour chicago

  • Big Bus Tours - Chicago on Facebook
  • Big Bus Tours - Chicago on Twitter

Things to do

  • King's Ransom
  • Untitled by Revise CMW
  • Mattress Firm
  • Cricket Wireless

Eat & Drink

  • Corner Bakery Cafe
  • Ocean Prime
  • Land & Lake Kitchen
  • Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown, The
  • Hampton Inn - Chicago Downtown/N. Loop
  • Royal Sonesta Chicago River North, The

CTA Stations

  • State/Lake (Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple Lines)
  • Grand (Red Line)
  • Lake (Red Line)

STAY IN THE LOOP

Get local tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Stay In The Loop

Exclusive Loop deals, recommendations, and news direct from Chicago Loop Alliance.

No thanks. I don't want to be in the Loop

City Experiences™

  • Search Experiences
  • Manage Booking
  • Phone # SMS #
  • My Offers 5

Big Bus Chicago Live Sunset Tour

Be the first to get offers and news, shopping cart, find your experience.

city bus tour chicago

9 Great Chicago Architecture Tours

I f you're looking for the best Chicago architecture tours, you've found them here! As a local who has explored these tours on weekends, during staycations, or while showing visiting friends around Chicago, I can honestly say that this list shares the most unique and fun experiences.

The city has great options including the best architectural boat tours, helicopter tours, walking tours, and more.

If you have limited hours, take the Hop On/Hop Off bus tour in Chicago or visit the top Chicago attractions to get the most out of a short amount of time.

Architecture Tours You Should Try in Chicago

Chicago architecture cruise.

Check rates for Chicago Architecture Cruise

If you love touring on water, then this cruise is for you. I've taken this cruise several times while showing friends the city and they loved it too.

On this cruise, you will ride the Chicago River and see the city's famous architecture. You'll see the impressive flat skyline including over 40 famous buildings such as Navy Pier, the Wrigley Building, and the John Hancock Building with audio narratives. The tour covers all three branches of the Chicago River.

Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Regular & Express

Check rates at Navy Pier Centennial Wheel

This is one of my favorite ways to see the city and the Chicago skyline. You circle only once, but the ride is super slow, and you'll have some great photo ops when you get to the top.

Navy Pier is among the most visited destinations in the world. It offers beautiful views from the wheel, and it's a must-do when in the area! Located right on the pier, you have spectacular views of the city's skyline, architecture, and waterfront.

45-Minute Private Helicopter Flight

Check rates at 45-Minute Private Helicopter Flight

I was scheduled to go on this flight but it was canceled due to bad weather. At least they are good at following safety protocol. Too bad that I missed this amazing experience by helicopter. From what I hear, you will get the best views of touring Chicago architecture, and the experience of flying amongst the clouds. 

Willis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge

Check rates for Willis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge

Having been on the Skydeck a couple of times, it never disappoints. What I didn't like much was that there is a limited time that you have to stand in the box. But if there were no supervision, the line would be from the street.

But here, you will have some of the most breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. You'll also see why home is to beautiful parks and cultural attractions such as the Adler Planetarium in Millennium and the Shedd Aquarium in Grant Park.

Look north to see Chicago's iconic skyscrapers and landmarks from Lincoln Park to the world-famous Wrigley Field.

Night Tour with Willis Tower Entry & Skyline Cruise

Check rates at Night Tour with Willis Tower Entry & Skyline Cruise

This tour is a wonderful way to spend the evening while touring in Chicago. You'll immerse yourself in one of the tallest architectural buildings in Chicago along with a Chicago boat tour. 

Experience the Windy City’s most popular attractions on this overnight tour. Watch the night light show of Buckingham Fountain. Cruise along the Chicago skyline and climb to the top of the iconic Willis Tower.

Big Bus Panoramic Sunset Tour with Live Guide

Check rates at Big Bus Open-Top Panoramic Night Tour

If this is your first visit to this city, this is a great way to tour Chicago , Illinois and how it shines at night. There is so much to see on both sides of the bus since the architecture of Chicago is interesting

Experience the stunning skyscrapers of Windy City that light up at night. Take a panoramic nighttime tour from the Magnificent Mile to Michigan Avenue past the Chicago Theater and Buckingham Fountain.

Chicago History, Culture, and Architecture Walking Tour

Check rates at Chicago History, Culture, and Architecture Walking Tour

This is a great way to hear about Chicago's history and architecture. Take a private stroll or share walks with family or friends for this architecture tour. You can see old and new architecture, try delicious local treats, see beautiful boats tour the river. 

Chicago Architecture Center Exhibit Admission

Check rates at Chicago Architecture Center Exhibit

The Chicago Architecture Center or CAC is located at the south end of Magnificent Rock near Michigan Walker Intersection. You'll discover super-sized models of architecture from around the world.

The vouchers give you access to two floors of imaginative exhibitions at the city's newest cultural venue.

Chicago Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking Tour

Check rates at Chicago Art Deco Skyscrapers Walking

The luxurious materials and geometric decorations of Art Deco represent the opulence and optimism of the decadent 20s. Visit some of the city's most beautiful architecture and learn about the history and characteristics of this modern decorative style.

Final Thoughts on the Best Chicago Architecture Tours

These are the best ways to tour Chicago architecture and see all the unmissable attractions. I've taken every single one of these tours, including ones not mentioned and found them worth the money.

I enjoyed seeing the towering skyscrapers and iconic landmarks. The tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the architectural history of the Chicago. Not to mention, it's nice to play tourist in my own back yard.

As a visitor, be sure to plan your tour in advance and consider factors such as weather and time of day to make the most of your experience. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views along the way.

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or simply looking to appreciate the city's remarkable skyline, a Chicago architecture tour is a must-do activity. The buildings are inspiring structures and some are a marvel of innovative designs that have shaped this iconic city.

Whether you go on water, in the air, or on foot , book your tour today and embark on a journey through Chicago's architectural wonders.

9 Great Chicago Architecture Tours

CTA to restore bus service on some routes cut during the pandemic

The transit agency says 29 bus routes will get more service as it tries to reach pre-pandemic service levels..

WATCHDOGS-121320-01.JPG

The CTA is training new drivers as it expands bus service.

Sun-Times file photo

Several bus routes across Chicago will see an increase in service beginning Sunday.

According to the Chicago Transit Authority, 29 bus routes will receive additional service in an effort to reach pre-pandemic service levels.

“This new service is a down payment on our commitment to bring service back to pre-pandemic scheduled service levels,” CTA President Dorval R. Carter Jr. said in a statement. “And while this additional service will definitely benefit our customers, our job is not done — we know we have much more work to do, and we’re committed to it.”

  • CTA president takes the train to City Hall — then gets an easy ride

Additional service will be provided on routes that have seen an increase in ridership. Most of the service will be provided during weekdays, with additional Saturday service on the No. 77 Belmont and No. 81 Lawrence routes, the CTA said.

Later this spring and summer, the CTA will also increase rail service during the morning and evening rush hours on weekdays on the Red, Green, Brown and Purple lines, as well as the O’Hare Branch of the Blue Line.

CTA hired 1,000 bus operators last year and is planning on training another 200 operators.

Service is being added to these routes:

No. 3 King Drive

No. 8 Halsted

No. 9 Ashland

No. X9 Ashland Express

No. 20 Madison

No. 29 State

No. 36 Broadway

No. 49B North Western

No. 50 Damen

No. 52 Kedzie

No. 52A South Kedzie

No. 53 Pulaski

No. 54 Cicero

No. 55 Garfield

No. 60 Blue Island/26th

No. 66 Chicago

No. 70 Division

No. 71 71st/South Shore

No. 72 North

No. 75 74th-75th

No. 77 Belmont

No. 79 79th

No. 81 Lawrence

No. 82 Kimball-Homan

No. 85 Central

No. 90 Harlem

No. 111 111th/King Drive

No. 115 Pullman/115th

No. 155 Devon

Map of improved CTA bus routes in spring 2024

IMAGES

  1. Discover Chicago's Historic Neighborhoods

    city bus tour chicago

  2. $30

    city bus tour chicago

  3. Chicago: tour en autobús turístico Big Bus

    city bus tour chicago

  4. Hop On Hop Off Chicago: Big Bus Tours Chicago

    city bus tour chicago

  5. Big Bus Tours: Chicago, Illinois’ Premier Bus Tour

    city bus tour chicago

  6. Chicago Hop on Hop off Bus Tours

    city bus tour chicago

VIDEO

  1. Guided by Transit: The Ultimate City Bus Tour

  2. Ramoji Film City Bus Tour 🚍❤️ More Details In Description!!! #shorts #ashortaday #ramojifilmcity

  3. Seoul City Bus Tour HD Part 1

  4. SUMMER LONDON CITY BUS TOUR

COMMENTS

  1. Big Bus Tours Chicago

    Our Chicago bus tours are the perfect introduction to the city, with incredible photo opportunities of iconic landmarks from the top deck. Hop on to discover Chicago, and hop off at any stop to explore the city at your own pace. Save up to 10% online! Adult tickets from US$49.50.

  2. THE 10 BEST Chicago Bus Tours (w/Prices)

    Calling all fans of the paranormal, this 2.5 to 3-hour ghost bus tour of Chicago takes you into the city's darkest recesses to reveal its dark past. Travel with ease between locations of reputed haunting and listen to spine-chilling tales delivered by a historian guide. The City Cemetery, the Levee Vice district, and Prairie Avenue all ...

  3. Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour (Mar 2024)

    Purchase a 24- or 48-hour Big Bus pass, download the app for timetable information, and head to one of the designated stops to begin your hop-on, hop-off tour of Chicago. The first bus departs at 10am and the last at 5pm, so you can choose a time and route to fit your schedule. Completing the sightseeing route in one go takes about one hour but ...

  4. Chicago City Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Trolley Tour Pass (Mar 2024)

    Additional Info. Assistance on and off the vehicles is offered to wheelchair passengers. Wheelchairs which fold up can be stored on board. Some trolley tour vehicles have an elevator platform/lift - need 24 hours notice 773-648-5000. Route subject to close in winter months (November-February) due to inclement weather.

  5. THE 10 BEST Chicago Bus Tours (Updated 2024)

    Filters • 1. Sort. Sightseeing Tours. City Tours. Historical & Heritage Tours. Cultural Tours. Bus Tours. Top Chicago Bus Tours: See reviews and photos of Bus Tours in Chicago, Illinois on Tripadvisor.

  6. Chicago: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

    15 Nashville. 16 San Diego. 17 Everglades City. 18 St. Augustine, Florida. 19 Niagara Falls, USA. 20 San Antonio. Explore Chicago at your own pace with a Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour or sunset tour. See Chicago's landmarks including Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and Magnificent Mile from an open-top double-decker bus.

  7. Chicago Tours

    For Chicago sightseeing tour reservations call: (312) 659-8687. You can also email us by filling out the form below. Book Now. Join us on one of our informative and entertaining Chicago Tours. Ride in style, as you see many popular Chicago sights. Four fun photo stops.

  8. Best Chicago Bus Tours of Landmarks and Attractions

    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 ...

  9. Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour

    Know exactly where to go in the Windy City on this hop-on, hop-off bus tour, complete with several stops covering everything from the famous Thorne Miniature Rooms in the Art Institute to the Adler Planetarium. Plus, this hop-on-hop-off tour means you can take charge of your own sightseeing itinerary. from. $49.50. per adult.

  10. 15 Top Chicago Bus Tours

    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.

  11. Chicago City Small-Group Minibus Tour 2024

    Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour. 1,658. from $49.50. Chicago, Illinois. Chicago Small-Group City Tour with Optional Architecture River Cruise. 603. from $46.95. Chicago, Illinois. Chicago Hauntings Original Ghost Bus Tour.

  12. Chicago Bus Tours

    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 ...

  13. Big Bus Tours

    Visit the Website of Big Bus Tours - Chicago (opens in new window) Address. 630 W 41st St Unit BChicago, IL 60609. Ratings. 300 reviews on The profile for this business on yelp dot com (opens in new window) The profile for this business on yelp dot com (opens in new window) Big Bus Tours - Chicago on Facebook.

  14. Chicago City Minibus Tour

    Not wheelchair accessible. Near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps. If you have questions about accessibility, we'd be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 5538P2. +1 855 275 5071.

  15. Top 10 Best City Bus Tour in Chicago, IL

    Reviews on City Bus Tour in Chicago, IL - Big Bus Tours Chicago, The 312 Limo, Chicago Trolley & Double Decker, Loopr, Untouchable Tours

  16. Big Bus Chicago Live Sunset Tour

    The all-new Big Bus Sunset Live Tour is a live guided 90-minute panoramic tour of Chicago. Hop-on the open top double decker bus in front of Navy Pier. Soak in the city sights as your tour guide share stories of history, art, and the culture of the city.

  17. City Sightseeing Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

    See more of the Windy City with this money-saving, hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus ticket. Enjoy informative onboard narration as you cruise by Chicago landmarks including the Art Institute, Field Museum, John Hancock Building, and much more. Select from three different ticket options, each offering their own benefits such as an extra day of bus access or a panoramic night tour.

  18. Top 10 Best City Tour Bus in Chicago, IL

    Reviews on City Tour Bus in Chicago, IL - Chicago Trolley & Double Decker, Big Bus Tours Chicago, Gray Line Sightseeing Tours, Chicago Crime Tours and Experiences, The 312 Limo

  19. THE 10 BEST Chicago City Tours (Updated 2024)

    These experiences are best for city tours in Chicago: Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile; Chicago Architecture River Cruise; Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour; Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago; Chicago Favorites Food & Walking Tour plus FREE Bike/Kayak Rental; See more city tours in Chicago on Tripadvisor

  20. 9 Great Chicago Architecture Tours

    The city has great options including the best architectural boat tours, helicopter tours, walking tours, and more. If you have limited hours, take the Hop On/Hop Off bus tour in Chicago or visit ...

  21. Chicago Small-Group City Tour with Optional Architecture River Cruise

    Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour. 1,659. from $49.50. Chicago, Illinois. Chicago Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours. 446. from $89.00. Price varies by group size. Likely to Sell Out.

  22. CTA to restore bus service on some routes cut ...

    According to the Chicago Transit Authority, 29 bus routes will receive additional service in an effort to reach pre-pandemic service levels. "This new service is a down payment on our commitment ...