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Chicago in a Day Walking Tour: Food, History & Architecture

1,444 Reviews 4.94 out of 5 stars Based on 1,444 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 99% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Chicago, USA
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 32 (22) days in advance.

4 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Immerse yourself in Chicago's rich history and vibrant culinary scene on this captivating walking tour. Discover the city's iconic architecture and Prohibition-era charm while indulging in delectable local cuisine. From deep-dish pizza to hidden gems, savor the flavors of Chicago as a knowledgeable guide unveils the city's culinary secrets and fascinating history.

What's Included

  • Hear stories of Chicago’s past from Prohibition to the Great Fire and immigrant history
  • Visit Millennium Park and snap photos at the famous Bean
  • Explore top sights & hidden gems like Riverwalk, Magnificent Mile, Pedway, Wrigley Building
  • Gratuity
  • Drinks and additional food
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

175 North State Street
Chicago, IL 60601, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

River North
Chicago, IL, USA

A central location in the River North neighborhood near N Clark St & W Ontario St.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

The Chicago Theatre

We begin under the dazzling Chicago Theater marquee, famous from movies, before diving into the lively streets of the city.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Chicago Pedway

Weather permitting, we'll explore the Chicago Pedway, a network of underground tunnels used daily by locals and commuters, especially in winter.
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20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Chicago River

Feel like a local as you walk past iconic buildings, enjoy stunning skyline views, and share in the daily commute along Chicago’s main artery.
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20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Wrigley Building (pass by)

Next, we’ll pass the Wrigley Building on the Magnificent Mile, built between 1920 and 1924 to house the Wrigley Company's headquarters.
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Tribune Tower (pass by)

Then, we’ll pass the Tribune Tower, a 463-foot, 36-story neo-Gothic skyscraper at 435 North Michigan Avenue.
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Millenium Park (pass by)

Next, we’ll visit picturesque Millennium Park, home to the iconic Bean sculpture. Your guide will then offer recommendations for more sights, lunch spots, or drinks.
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Cloud Gate (pass by)

We'll pass the Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as 'The Bean,' the centerpiece of Millennium Park;
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The Loop (pass by)

At the end, stroll through the main streets near the Loop, where museums, restaurants, bars, historic landmarks, and modern architecture blend together.
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Show 7 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Is this tour child-friendly? Yes! This tour is suitable for families. Children under 4 years old can join free of charge. A reduced child price applies for children aged 4 to 11.
  • Will food options or portion sizes very? Food offerings and portion sizes may vary depending on the season and the stops visited on the day of the tour. However, the total amount of food included is always designed to equal a full meal.
  • Is this tour suitable for all ages and fitness levels? Yes! This tour is suitable for guests of all ages and fitness levels. Please note that it includes approximately 4.8 to 6.4 km (3-4 miles) of walking. at a relaxed pace with regular stops.

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Chicago in a Day Walking Tour: Food, History & Architecture?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-5713P139

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.94
1,444 reviews

Average 4.94 out of 5 stars based on 1,444 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
1,380
4 stars
48
3 stars
12
2 stars
3
1 star
1
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 32 (22) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Hear stories of Chicago’s past from Prohibition to the Great Fire and immigrant history
  • Visit Millennium Park and snap photos at the famous Bean
  • Explore top sights & hidden gems like Riverwalk, Magnificent Mile, Pedway, Wrigley Building
  • Taste Chicago’s iconic eats, including deep‑dish pizza, Chicago‑style hot dogs, and Italian beef
  • Enjoy a relaxed, small‑group experience (maximum 12 travelers)
  • Travel with purpose on a tour operated by a certified B Corp committed to responsible tourism
  • Led by expert local guides, passionate storytelling from true Chicago insiders
  • Gratuity
  • Drinks and additional food

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Is this tour child-friendly? Yes! This tour is suitable for families. Children under 4 years old can join free of charge. A reduced child price applies for children aged 4 to 11.
  • Will food options or portion sizes very? Food offerings and portion sizes may vary depending on the season and the stops visited on the day of the tour. However, the total amount of food included is always designed to equal a full meal.
  • Is this tour suitable for all ages and fitness levels? Yes! This tour is suitable for guests of all ages and fitness levels. Please note that it includes approximately 4.8 to 6.4 km (3-4 miles) of walking. at a relaxed pace with regular stops.
  • Can dietary requirements be accommodated? Vegetarian options are available. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate other food allergies or dietary preferences. Please let us know in advance if you require a vegetarian option so we can plan accordingly.
  • What happens if the weather isn’t great? Experiences run rain, shine, or snow, so please dress appropriately for the weather on the day of your tour.
  • This tour is operated by a Certified B Corp™
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers

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