Product photo
Product photo
/ Person
Product photo
Product photo
/ Person
Select date and participants
At least one participant is required. Please adjust and try again.

Chicago Tour - South Side

4.5 (21)
Chicago, US
Share

Chicago Tour - South Side

4.5 (21)
Chicago, US
Share
Experience the vibrant and authentic side of Chicago with the South Side tour! Immerse yourself in the blue-collar neighborhoods and discover the rich cultural heritage of this historical city. Visit the Ford Factory, the birthplace of the steel mills, and explore Bronzeville, a renowned African American neighborhood. Marvel at Hyde Park, home to the prestigious University of Chicago and the birthplace of the atomic bomb. Take in the stunning views of South Lake Drive and understand the unique dynamic between Chicago and Indiana. From Beverly Hills to Chinatown, Little Village to Pilsen, this tour takes you through diverse and highly populated neighborhoods, showcasing the melting pot of cultures that make up Chicago. Enjoy the sight of Cook County jail and get a glimpse of the proud Mexican community in Pilsen. Finally, visit a lime quarry in Bridgeport for a truly unique experience. Uncover the hidden gems of the South Side and leave with a wealth of knowledge about this fascinating part of Chicago.

About this experience

  • Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
  • 4 hours
  • Suitable for 1-5 Participants
  • Small Group Tour, Private Tour
  • Guided Experience
  • Explore the historic African American neighborhood of Bronzeville
  • Visit the home of the World renowned University of Chicago
  • Experience the vibrant Puerto Rican Neighborhood "Little Village"
  • Pass through the proud Mexican community of Pilsen
  • Learn about the blue-collar side of Chicago
  • Phone charging port.

Popular Hotels Closeby

More about this experience

Introduction

Prepare to dive into the vibrant heart of Chicago's South Side with the captivating Chicago Tour - South Side. This immersive journey will take you through the blue-collar neighborhoods, historical landmarks, and cultural hotspots that have shaped the identity of this iconic city. Experience the city's rich heritage, explore fascinating communities, and gain a deeper understanding of the dynamic tapestry that makes up Chicago.

What to expect?

During the Chicago Tour - South Side, you can anticipate a comprehensive exploration of the city's South Side. Witness firsthand the legacy of the steel mills at The Ford Factory, where the blue-collar spirit thrived. Delve into Bronzeville, a historical African American neighborhood and early business district, and discover the influential figures and cultural contributions that have emerged from this vibrant community. Journey through Hyde Park, home to the prestigious University of Chicago and the birthplace of the atomic bomb. Experience the harmonious scenes along South Lake Drive and uncover the unique dynamics between Chicago and neighboring Indiana. As you traverse Beverly Hills, Chinatown, and the bustling Puerto Rican Neighborhood "Little Village," you'll witness the diverse tapestry of immigrant cultures that have left an indelible mark on Chicago. Discover the vibrant Mexican community of Pilsen and catch a glimpse of the rich blue-collar heritage of Little Italy Greektown. To top it off, you'll even visit a lime quarry in the Bridgeport neighborhood, providing a unique glimpse into the city's industrial past.

Who is this for?

The Chicago Tour - South Side is suited for both locals and adventurous travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Chicago's history, culture, and diversity. History buffs will relish the chance to explore significant landmarks and learn about influential figures. Art and culture enthusiasts will delight in the opportunity to immerse themselves in the different neighborhoods that epitomize Chicago's multicultural essence. This tour offers a unique perspective on the city, making it perfect for anyone curious about the lesser-known side of Chicago that lies beyond the downtown core. From individuals craving local experiences to families looking to create lasting memories, this tour caters to a wide range of interests and backgrounds.

Why book this?

The Chicago Tour - South Side stands out as a must-book experience due to its sheer depth and authenticity. Led by knowledgeable guides passionate about the city's history and culture, this tour offers a unique opportunity to see Chicago through the eyes of a local. By venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist path, you'll gain a personal understanding of the city's diverse communities and their significant contributions to its tapestry. Step into the shoes of the blue-collar workers who shaped Chicago's industrial legacy, immerse yourself in the cultural traditions of various ethnic neighborhoods, and witness the vibrant melting pot that makes the South Side so captivating. This tour is more than just sightseeing; it's a chance to connect with the heart and soul of Chicago.

Good to know

The Chicago Tour - South Side has a duration of 240 minutes, ensuring ample time to delve into the South Side's rich heritage. The tour starts at the Ford Factory, where the steel mills once thrived, and continues through neighborhoods like Bronzeville, Hyde Park, and Pilsen. Along the way, you'll pass by significant landmarks, including the University of Chicago and Cook County jail. Prepare to encounter both the iconic sights and lesser-known gems that define the character of Chicago's South Side. With a curious spirit and an open mind, you'll witness a side of the city that few tourists venture to explore.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on the Chicago Tour - South Side rave about the eye-opening experiences and insights gained during the journey. They highlight the exceptional knowledge of the knowledgeable guides, who bring the city's history and culture to life with their engaging storytelling. Visitors appreciate the diversity showcased throughout the neighborhoods and the chance to interact with local communities. The tour receives high praise for its exceptional value, providing an immersive and genuine perspective of Chicago's South Side. From learning about African American heritage in Bronzeville to exploring the vibrant Puerto Rican Neighborhood "Little Village," this tour provides a captivating and unforgettable experience for all who embark on it.

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

  • At least one adult or senior required per booking

Your Itinerary

Hyde Park

(Pass by)

The Blue-Collar side of Chicago many call it! This tour will show The Ford Factory, home of the steel mills and the blue-collar neighborhoods and many places on the South Side, home to the 44th President of The United States, Barack Obama. We tour: Bronzeville. A historical African American neighborhood and early business district as well as Hyde Park, home of the World renowned University of Chicago (the spot where the atomic bomb was born and yes we show the spot!) We explore South Lake Drive and life along the lake. Chicago has a border with Indiana, we show how that special dynamic works. We visit Beverly Hills, Chinatown, and the large and highly populated Puerto Rican Neighborhood “Little Village”.

Pilsen

(Pass by)

We also pass through Pilsen, a proud Mexican community. If you give us any kind of trouble we will drop you off at Cook County jail as we pass by it too! Before ending we head back east, we go thru Little Italy Greektown. It’s blue-collar! We even visit a lime quarry in the Bridgeport neighborhood. Have your camera ready and know that after this tour you will know tons about The Southside of Chicago, not just downtown.

Reviews

(21)

4.5 (21)

Rahima_B

One of the best tours I've ever been on!!! Personalized to my preferences and Steve was such a gem. Very knowledgeable about the history, took pictures for me, and even took me to Juice Wlrds memorial site. Steve was very funny and gave me good advice as well. Amazing tour!

Ladye_A

I texted 15 minutes before the tour, no response, I called 5 minutes before the tour was to start and Steve was unaware he had a tour today. Where was I right now and why didn't i call for a hotel pick-up, I said that was not offered on the Viator site. Would've loved that option. He is a very loud and fast talker, I will never forget how he kept yelling "Lincoln Park Baby". Each neighborhood we would have to answer the question of what type of housing we were looking at. I think it was condo, home and affordable housing. I don't care, I was looking at the beauty of the buildings. We would also have to Google each neighborhood house to find out what it sold for. I don't care, I'm not moving to Chicago. He also did not stop talking long enough for either one of us to ask a question. His driving is very fast and jerky. We don't have to go from 0-60 on each block with speed bumps. He would just stop wherever to point something out. The horn blowing was non stop. I was really scared when he slowed down on the interstate to show us something, we were well below 45 miles an hour. He pulled in front of an ambulance with lights/sirens and slowed down while turning to tell us something. My husband did say something this time. He kept wanting to make up for the morning mix up and give us another hour of touring at no cost, I couldn't take it. I was nauseated and had a horrible headache, I just wanted this to end. we only stopped to take pictures where he wanted. would've loved to stop and get out at Wrigley Field. Don't remember seeing the University of Chicago or hearing about the Atomic Bomb, I would have like that.

Judy_T

Steve has a great knowledge of Chicago. He personalized the tour by taking us to places we asked about.

Becky_L

STEVE! What a Chicago treasure. He is full of knowledge and shared his city with us. The time went quickly and worth every penny. We saw so many corners of Chicago and had a great story teller to keep us wanting more.

Patricia_R

I went to the pick up place 10 minutes prior , the tour operator never showed even though I had received an email saying: Confirmed. I tried to reach him, no answer . I had to hire an uber . Somebody called me an hour later to offer me another tour , not the original I paid for . I rejected . I’m still waiting for my refund !!

Donna_L

I took a couple of tours of the north side and the south side of Chicago with Steve Johnson and they were both terrific! Steve is a fabulous tour guide who provides lots of facts and interesting information. I highly recommend this tour for anyone who wants to go beyond the typical tourist attractions and see and learn about all aspects of Chicago. I loved the city, loved Steve as our guide and loved the tour!

helencG5327RK

This tour started out being absolutely amazing! the Tour guide Steve picked us up at our location, which was great! 4 other family members and I were here from Texas for a few days to visit. He was so knowledgeable about everything that he introduced us to. every point of interest was like opening Christmas gifts, we were just in awe and overjoyed at the special places that he took us to, we never imagined that we would take in so much history on that tour. I have pictures on top of pics that I brought home so show to family and friends. The disappointment came when we stopped at a museum and my sister heard the Guide (Steve) ask my husband if he had "Dementia" or something related to old age!! because he had trouble closing the screen on the car window and opening and closing doors. My husband does in fact have early onset dementia and he's struggling with it as well as all of his family who love him dearly. That hurt us all!!! No apology can fix this one, Steve need in depth training on what IS and IS not appropriate to say to people. This otherwise would have been a 10+ review for that Southside tour but this one made it a ZERO.

Johnny_D

Seeing both the south and north sides of Chicago and learning the history about both. Definitely worth my 4 hours!!

lizfriedman1

Have lived in the city a long time but have never really explored the south side. This was a great way to pack a lot of neighborhoods into a short time period.

Angelina_C

Steve, the tour guide, was very knowledgeable, courteous, and kind. The tour of Southside and other neighborhoods is very important for making cultural connections.
Collected by Evendo, Tripadvisor & Viator
2024-04-25 13:58
Price breakdown
    Total
    Sorry, this date is sold out We recommend you try another date or try another product if your dates aren’t flexible.