Chicago Small Group Tour: Architecture & History
4.9
66 Ratings
Chicago
Discover the best of Chicago's architecture, history, and local treats on this engaging small group walking tour. Join a knowledgeable local guide and explore the city's iconic sights and hidden gems.
Duration:
2 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- The Chicago Theatre - We start our tour under the dazzling marquee of the Chicago Theater (where you might recognize the neon sign from the movie musical Chicago) before heading off into the bustling city.
What's Included
- Enjoy stunning river views
- Friendly local English-speaking guide
- A stroll through beautiful parks
- Personalized recommendations for your stay
- Discover Chicago’s iconic architecture
- Savor Chicago-style popcorn, a local tradition
- Taste chocolates from a renowned Chicago chocolatier
- See the famous Chicago Theatre
What's Not Included
- Gratuity
Additional Information
Chicago is a city complete with stunning architecture, delectable cuisine, and significant landmarks both historic and contemporary. This walking expedition takes you to some of the city’s popular locations with a resident tour guide, offering you insider knowledge on what sets Chicago apart from other cities. Moreover, we’ll include a few delightful local snacks to fuel you during the exploration.
- This is a child-friendly tour. Children under the age of 6 are permitted to join this tour free of charge.
- Experiences happen rain, shine, or snow. Please dress accordingly.
- Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, but please note that this tour covers about 4.8 km (3 miles) of walking.
- We can accommodate vegetarian options but cannot accommodate other food allergies or dietary preferences. Please notify us in advance if you have any dietary requests.
- Note that the Bean sculpture is under construction until Spring 2024 and views will be limited.
Location
The Chicago Theatre
North State Street
The Chicago Theatre (underneath the marquee), 175 N. State Street, Chicago, IL 60601
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.9
(66 Ratings)
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Adam_r
May 26, 2024
Have to do this trip first when you visit Chicago - Dash was an amazing host. So much information and history. He kept the group together even through the hectic parade. We had a wonderful tour. I only wish we had done Dash’s tour on our first day here
Review provided by Viator
Dominique_b
May 24, 2024
Really great tour and tour guide - We had a lot of fun in this tour and learnt a lot. Dave is very knowledgeable and engaging. We visited some of the iconic places in the Loop, talked about history and lots of anecdotes which really made a difference. We also sampled a few local food at his recommendation. Highly recommend it.
Review provided by Viator
Ligia_p
Mar 31, 2024
Wonderful Private Tour - Our guide, Kevin, was very nice, knowledgeable, and catered the tour to our interests since it was just me and my friend. We especially loved a return visit to the Art Institute (which we had visited the day before but had managed to miss seeing the Monets, Van Goghs, and other important works). We also enjoyed the walking tour in the downtown Loop area, including seeing the Chicago River and the Merchandise Mart Building. I have a bum knee at the moment and was worried about a walking tour, especially stairs, but Kevin was mindful of the situation and we went slowly. My friend and I asked many questions and learned a lot -- I went home afterward to read up on Richard Nickels and his tragic death giving rise to the architecture preservationist movement in Chicago. Thanks, Kevin, for a great tour!
Review provided by Viator
Eric_s
Mar 17, 2024
Great architecture tour of Chicago - It was a great and informative tour. Really learned a lot about the culture and architecture history of the city. The chocolate and popcorn tasting was an additional plus.
Review provided by Viator
Y102ubjim
Mar 17, 2024
Food, history & architecture - Great experience. We would definitely do it again should we come back to Chicago. Highly recommend the experience. It was an adventure doing the tour on St. Patrick’s Day which made it more fun.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Marymtait
Mar 12, 2024
Dave’s Chicago tour - The buildings and their architectural history. Dave was an excellent guide! He was a very comfortable person. I felt free to ask any questions and to ask for more info.
Review provided by Viator
Levijames_d
Mar 9, 2024
Experience Chicago Architecture - The walk tour is something not to be missed for three reasons, especially when you’re on a short trip. Our guide, “tall Dave”, knows a lot about the history of the places we visited, shows interesting photos, and makes sure everyone is well accommodated. The sites have very fascinating architecture, some of them are hidden gems that do not usually appear in top places to visit when you Google. Finally, the group is pretty small, hence, it’s easier to interact with the guide, ask questions, and have fun with fellow tourists. So if you’re planning to visit Chicago, this tour should be in your checklist.
Review provided by Viator
Isadora_k
Feb 20, 2024
Very nice tour - We can see most of the main landmarks of the city, which has an impressive architecture and it is beautiful! Guide Rich is very attentive and helpful, a lovely person!
Review provided by Viator
Marla_o
Feb 13, 2024
Great walking tour - Our guide, Dash, was very informative and really got a lot in during our 2.5 hour tour. It was a little crisp out but he did a good job getting us inside as needed to warm up. I’ve spent a decent amount of time in Chicago but never really taken the time (except for a river tour) to look closely at the buildings. It was nice to slow down and take them in. The only negative was pre-trip when I had to jump through hoops to get another person added to our private group. They eventually accommodated.
Review provided by Viator
David_s
May 2, 2024
Trivia Walk instead of Architecture Walk - Really nice guy but no real insights into architecture. Just a nice walk with some info about when buildings were built and what they were used for. I was hoping to really learn about their architects and architectural decisions. This was more of a “trivia” walk. If you’re going to do this, don’t do it after you’ve already been in the city for a few days as you will just touch in most highlights that you already naturally pass by.
Review provided by Viator
