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

Chicago, US
97% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (944 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Transportation between tour halves
  • inclusion
    Get a taste for chicago’s most famous food like chicago-style hot dog
  • inclusion
    Try deep dish pizza at a pizza place that’s an icon to chicago
  • inclusion
    Join professional english-speaking local guide
  • inclusion
    Discover chicago on 4 food stops with 4 food samples
  • inclusion
    Get tips on what else to see, do and eat during your stay
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    Discover chicagos’ incredible architecture both old and new
  • inclusion
    Enjoy some classic chicago-style popcorn
  • inclusion
    Taste a classic chicago sandwich: italian beef

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuity
  • exclusion
    Drinks and additional food

Meeting Point

The Chicago Theatre (underneath the marquee), 175 N. State Street, Chicago, IL 60601

Meeting point

175 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601 , United States

End point

End Point

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

Meeting point

Chicago, IL , United States

End point

What to expect

1

The Chicago Theatre

We start our tour under the dazzling marquee of the Chicago Theater (you might recognize from dozens of movies and TV shows) before heading off into the bustling city.

Duration 10 minutes
2

Chicago Pedway

Weather permitting, we'll head towards the Chicago Pedway. This unique feature of Chicago is used by locals and commuters daily to move about the city in a network of underground tunnels — especially necessary during the Midwest winters

Duration 20 minutes
3

City of Chicago - City Hall

We will pass by the City Hall-County Building, commonly known as City Hall. that houses the seats of government of the City of Chicago and Cook Count

4

Chicago River

You’ll enjoy feeling like a local as you walk past buildings and catch even more awesome views. You’ll be seeing the Chicago skyline from a totally different perspective, as well as sharing in the daily commute of local Chicagoans along the main artery of Chicago.

Duration 20 minutes
5

Wrigley Building

We will pass the Wrigley Building, that it is located on the Magnificent Mile directly across Michigan Avenue from the Tribune Tower. Its two towers in an elaborate style were built between 1920 and 1924 to house the corporate headquarters of the Wrigley Company.

6

Tribune Tower

We'll pass by Tribune Tower, a 463-foot-tall (141 m), 36-floor neo-Gothic skyscraper located at 435 North Michigan Avenue.

7

Millennium Park

Next is picturesque Millennium Park, home to the iconic Bean sculpture. Here or nearby, your guide will conclude your tour and point you in the right direction toward more amazing sights, great lunch spots, or a drink recommendation.

8

Cloud Gate

We will pass by the Cloud Gate sculpture, commonly referred to as “The Bean”. A, a public sculpture that is the centerpiece of Millennium Park

9

River North

Your food tour starts with a very well-known Chicago fare: the Chicago-style hot dog. Every Chicagoan has his or her own preference as to how the dog should be made, and you’ll get a chance to try your guides’ favorite version. Next up is the world-famous Chicago deep-dish pizza! An entire meal unto itself, this staple of the Chicago food scene originated in River North in the 1940s, when workers and families needed filling dishes at low prices. Your guide will take you to a pizza place that’s an icon to Chicago natives to try the real deal for yourself. After you’ve filled up on pizza and hot dogs, you’ll take a stroll through two more establishments, each one essential to Chicago’s food culture. We’ll then continue our tasting journey with a classic Chicago sandwich: Italian beef. You’ll sample this sandwich in a real Chicago institution — no-frills decor included!

Duration 90 minutes
10

Historic Water Tower

We will pass by the beautiful water tower that was constructed to house a large water pump, intended to draw water from Lake Michigan. Built in 1869, it is the second-oldest water tower in the United States.

11

The Loop

Stroll through the main streets near the Loop Chicago which offers a wonderful concentration of museums, restaurants, bars and historic landmarks uniquely mixed with modern architecture, shops and art galleries.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
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    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
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    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    This is a child-friendly walking tour. Children under the age of 6 are permitted to join this tour free of charge.
  • Additional information
    Please note: food options and portion sizes will vary depending on the season and where we stop that day but the total amount of food included will be equal to a full meal.
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, but please note that this tour covers between 4.8 to 6.4 km (3-4 miles) of walking.
  • Additional information
    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.
  • Additional information
    Experiences happen rain, shine, or snow. Please dress accordingly.
Provided by Intrepid Urban Adventures - USA

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try to arrive early for photos.
  • icon
    Don't miss the Chicago-style popcorn stop.
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    Explore the River North area post-tour.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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    Check nearby restaurants for dinner options.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Get ready to experience the best of Chicago in just one day with the Chicago in a Day: Food, History, and Architecture Walking Tour. This incredible tour will take you on a journey through the city's rich history, mouthwatering culinary delights, and stunning architectural wonders. With a local guide by your side, you'll get an insider's perspective and discover hidden gems that only the locals know about.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect to indulge in the iconic flavors of Chicago. From tasting a Chicago-style hot dog to savoring a deep dish pizza at a renowned local pizza place, your taste buds will be treated to the best of the city's culinary scene. With five food stops and five food samples, you'll get a comprehensive taste of Chicago's most famous dishes. In addition to the delicious food, you'll also have the opportunity to explore Chicago's incredible architecture. From historic landmarks to modern skyscrapers, your guide will take you on a journey through the city's architectural marvels, providing fascinating insights along the way.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to make the most of their time in Chicago and experience the city like a local. Whether you're a foodie looking to indulge in Chicago's culinary delights or a history buff eager to learn about the city's past, this tour has something for everyone.

Why book this?

What sets the Chicago in a Day tour apart is the unique combination of food, history, and architecture. You'll not only get to taste the iconic flavors of Chicago but also gain a deeper understanding of the city's rich history and admire its stunning architectural gems. With a professional English-speaking local guide leading the way, you'll have the opportunity to ask questions, receive insider tips, and truly immerse yourself in the local culture. By the end of the tour, you'll have a newfound appreciation for Chicago and its vibrant culinary and architectural scene.

Good to know

When booking this tour, it's important to note that gratuity, drinks, and additional food are not included. However, your guide will provide recommendations on other must-see attractions, activities, and dining options in Chicago, ensuring you make the most of your stay. The tour ends at a central location in the River North neighborhood near the Chicago Brown Line L Station, making it convenient for transportation.

Reviews

Previous participants of the Chicago in a Day tour have raved about their experiences. They have praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides who made the tour informative and engaging. The food samples were a highlight, with many guests expressing their love for the Chicago-style hot dog and deep dish pizza. The architectural insights provided during the tour were also highly appreciated, allowing visitors to truly appreciate the beauty and history of the city. Overall, guests have left with a deeper appreciation for Chicago's culture, cuisine, and architectural heritage.

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