Skip to content
Home » North America » USA » Illinois » Chicago » Best Guided Tours in Chicago, Illinois

Best Guided Tours in Chicago, Illinois

Best Guided Tours in Chicago

  1. Chicago River: 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Cruise | GetYourGuide

    Admire Chicago's world-famous architecture from a vantage point on the river. You'll get to see all three branches of the Chicago River as you travel through the heart of the city.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  2. Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Regular & Express Ticket | GetYourGuide

    Observe Chicago and the Lake Michigan shoreline from a vantage point 200 feet above Navy Pier. Chicago's famous skyline may be explored with either a standard or a Fastpass Express pre-purchased ticket.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  3. Chicago: Riverfront Buildings Interiors Guided Walking Tour | GetYourGuide

    On a walking tour, get up close and personal with Chicago's historic riverside structures. The exteriors of these amazing structures are awe-inspiring, but don't forget to walk inside to admire the riverside architecture.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  4. Chicago: Willis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge Ticket | GetYourGuide

    From the Willis Tower's observation deck, take in the cityscape of Chicago. The Ledge, a glass-paneled cage with amazing views of the earth below, may be reached by riding the 103rd floor Skydeck elevator.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  5. Chicago: 1.5-Hour Lake and River Architecture Cruise | GetYourGuide

    The only architecture tour on both Lake Michigan and the Chicago River in the city of Chicago. As you travel the city's riverside and shoreline, you'll get the opportunity to learn about Chicago's world-renowned architecture from knowledgeable local guides.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  6. 360 Chicago Observation Deck Admission: Skip the Ticket Desk | GetYourGuide

    You don't have to wait in line at the ticket office to get the best views of Chicago from the 94th floor. The stunning buildings of Chicago and Lake Michigan may be seen from this vantage point.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  7. Chicago: 45-Minute Family-Friendly Architecture River Cruise | GetYourGuide

    Embark on a riverboat trip along the Chicago River and take in the city's most stunning sites while listening to family-friendly commentary and enjoying a full bar. 

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  8. Chicago: Field Museum of Natural History Ticket or VIP Tour | GetYourGuide

    A visit to the Field Museum of Natural History is a great way to explore the worlds of prehistoric North America and ancient Egypt. Choose the VIP Tour with Early Access for a tour with a guide and access to all exhibitions.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  9. Chicago: 1.5-Hour Romantic Sunset Cruise | GetYourGuide

    On this peaceful and romantic ride on Lake Michigan, watch the sun gently set behind the city. Wine, beer, or even a handcrafted cocktail might be used to celebrate the end of the day.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  10. Chicago: Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Cruise | GetYourGuide

    The Spirit of Chicago cruises down the lakefront and serves up a menu of delicacies. Play games like Jenga and shuffleboard on the ship's onboard DJ or dance the night away to the music.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  11. Chicago: Art Institute of Chicago Skip-the-Line Ticket | GetYourGuide

    Make your way to the second-largest museum in the United States right away. This world-famous collection, which has more than 300,000 pieces and is conveniently located in Millennium Park, is particularly well-known for its impressive holdings of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  12. Chicago: 90-Minute Mob and Crime Bus Tour | GetYourGuide

    The 90-minute Crime & Mob Bus Tour shows you the darker side of Chicago's history of criminals and gangsters. Escape into the depths of the city while learning about personalities such as Al Capone and John Dillinger.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  13. Chicago: Gangsters and Ghosts 2-Hour Walking Tour | GetYourGuide

    Take a tour of Chicago through the perspective of the ghouls and mobsters that once called the city home. Learn about Chicago's gangsters and ghost tales on a guided history tour. In the Loop area of Chicago, you'll get a glimpse of the city's darker side.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  14. Chicago: Fireworks Cruise with Lake or River Viewing Options | GetYourGuide

    On Wednesdays and Saturdays in the summer, you can get up close and personal with the spectacular Navy Pier fireworks show. Choose either the Chicago River or Lake Michigan for your vantage point.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  15. Chicago: Night Tour with Willis Tower Entry and River Cruise | GetYourGuide

    Take a nighttime tour of some of Chicago's most well-known landmarks. At night, take a ride on the Chicago River and visit the Willis Tower for a breathtaking view.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  16. Chicago: 75-Minute Architecture Cruise by Speedboat | GetYourGuide

    On a speedboat ride, see the most remarkable skyscrapers and architecture in the world. Cruise Lake Michigan and the Chicago River to get up close to architectural wonders such as Willis Tower and the Lyric Opera.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  17. Chicago: Family Fun Urban Adventure River and Lake Cruise | GetYourGuide

    This popular 1.5-hour daytime river and lake tour delights families of all ages with incredible views of Chicago's world-renowned architecture and stunning skyline whilst lively tour guides bring the city's rich history to life with fun stories and facts.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  18. Amazing Lakefront Segway Tour of Chicago | GetYourGuide

    Take a Segway tour of Chicago's lakefront for 2.5 hours. As you make your way through Millenium Park, you'll come upon Grant Park's beautiful gardens. Get a bird's-eye view of the city's skyline and more.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  19. Chicago Food Tasting: 2.5-Hour Guided Walking Tour | GetYourGuide

    Chicagoans' favorite foods include pizza, Italian meats, and pastries. Take a stroll through the city's famous Millennium Walk, Riverwalk, and Wrigley Building to get a taste of Chicago's architectural and artistic flair.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  20. Chicago: Bikes, Bites, and Brews Biking Tour | GetYourGuide

    Chicago is known for its pizza, hot dogs, brownies, and beer, so this city bike tour will take you to all four of those places. Pass through Wrigley Field, one of Chicago's most iconic landmarks, on your way through the city's most recognized neighborhoods.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  21. Chicago Food Tour: Deep Dish Pizza, Beer, Brownies, and More 2022

    This walking culinary tour takes you through Chicago's downtown area. The Palmer House Hotel, Millennium Park, and other sights are all worth seeing while you're in town. Chicago-style delicacies like deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and chocolates and pastries are all on the menu for visitors. It's a short 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) journey that's suitable for most fitness levels, and all of the food samples are included. Three samples of local craft beer can be added to your tour if desired.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  22. Chicago Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

    Enjoy a fine-dining dinner cruise on a luxury boat with the skyline of Chicago as your backdrop. Take a ride on Lake Michigan in style on your newly rebuilt boat, complete with a luxurious rooftop lounge and tasteful interior décor. Afterwards, sit back and enjoy a three-course meal made by some of the world's most renowned celebrity chefs using only the freshest ingredients. You can enjoy coffee and tea after dinner while listening to the onboard DJ spin music and taking in the views of the Willis (previously Sears) Tower and Navy Pier.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  23. Chicago Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

    Supper, sightseeing, and dancing are all included in this magnificent sunset cruise around Lake Michigan's shores. The Willis (Sears) Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and Soldier Field can all be seen from the all-you-can-eat buffet at the Navy Pier. A live DJ will keep the party going with a variety of dance hits.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

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

    As a first-time tourist, this tour is ideal because it includes both well-known attractions and lesser-known jewels. The Chicago Pedway, a network of tunnels beneath the city, is a favorite destination for residents and tourists alike. Make your way through the city on a culinary tour to sample some of Chicago's most popular meals.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  25. Chicago BYOB Hands-On Graffiti and Street Art Workshop 2022

    Participate in an interactive urban art session to learn about the history and techniques of graffiti and street art. Make your own way to the Chicago studio after selecting from a variety of class hours. When you've finished the session, you'll be able to take home one of your own creations made with stencils and spray paint. You'll learn a variety of techniques and styles from your teachers and guest artists.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

  26. Blue Man Group at the Briar Street Theater in Chicago 2022

    One of Chicago's longest-running shows, the Blue Man Group, will take the stage at the Briar Street Theater on March 31. New technology has just been added to this international performing company's act, which has been praised in cities throughout the world for its unique and hilarious presentation. The "GiPad" is a giant tablet used by the group, and you may use it to interact with the program's humorous antics, stunning graphics, and cutting-edge stage show. Seating options and show timings are also included in your ticket purchase.

    Book Now

    Marco Polo Guided Tours earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Your support is much appreciated.

Get the most out of your vacation by buying guided tours

For your convenience, we collaborate with the world’s largest and most recognized tour operators to provide a selection of carefully selected guided excursions. If you decide to buy any of them, we’ll earn a tiny commission without any additional cost to you.

Table of Contents

What are guided tours?

It’s common for guided tours to be all-inclusive group trips that are led by a local guide and follow a set itinerary for a specific tourist attraction or local thing to do. It’s possible to go on a guided sightseeing tour, buy a ticket to skip the line at popular attractions, go on a group tour, try food or wine, and even get a ride to the airport.

Should I use guided tours on my vacations?

Explore and experience your destination like a local.

See everything! The best way to get the most out of your trip is to get personalized advice before and during your trip. Experience your travel destination as if you were a local. Then, find all the hidden gems!

Avoid scams and pay better prices

Pay the best price possible! It is common to be ripped by unscrupulous local tour agents. Book your guided tours ahead of time

I have a tight budget, can I still buy a guided tour?

With so many guided tours to choose from, you’re likely to find one that fits your budget.

Save time, Get the most out of your trip.

Don’t squander any time on your journey! Memories are not formed while waiting in line. Skip the lineups at the world’s most popular attractions by making a reservation ahead of time.

When you have a tour plan, you know exactly what you’re going to do each day, so you don’t have to worry about any disappointment.

Check reviews before buying a guided tour

Spoilt for choice and can’t decide which tour to go on? If you want to know which activities are better for you, look at the reviews from people.

No risk to you. Free cancellation

For many of the guided tours, you can change your mind and cancel your booking without penalty up to 24 hours before the date of the activity. This is very helpful in the event your travel plans changes last minute

Meet people all over the world, make new friends on your next vacation

Your guided tours are a great way to meet new people from all over the world.

Types of guided tours available for your vacation

Depending upon the city you are taking a trip to, there are just about any guide tours and activities for everyone. There are outdoor guided tours, water activities, Nature routes, Music celebrations, Local food tours, Workshops and Classes, Arts Performances, Hidden Gems expedition, beer or white wine drinking and tasting tours, special television & Movies tours, romantic couple tours, kids’ activities, trips to Parks and Gardens, Island expedition tours, check out well-known landmarks, Museum guided tours and tickets, Airport transfer services, Memorials for you to explore to under the local culture and history, go up Towers & viewing platforms to get a birds-eye view of the landscape, shopping tours, theaters and auditorium, come by ports and harbors, sightseeing cruise, bikes for leasing, helicopter trips, ferryboat tickets, Jeep and SUV for rental, private yacht services and sailboat leasing.