Classic Chicago Food Lovers Tour in River North
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Get a taste of Chicago on this small-group walking food tour and explore the specialties of River North neighborhood. Dive deeper into the culinary history of the place while trying out the best dishes to illustrate different cuisines.
Follow your guide’s advice not to get lost in a great diversity of options and enjoy the most peculiar delicacies including deep dish pizza, Italian beef, and hot-dogs. Feel your stomach with delight and your head with new information as you walk and learn something new with every step you make.
- Eat your way through the River North neighborhood to get a real taste of the City by the Lake.
- Combine walking tour with history insights and culinary tips from your guide.
- Enjoy a small group for better personalized experience.
- Benefit from your guides expertise and learn more about restaurants and cafés of Chicago.
Available options
Classic Chicago Food Lovers Tour in River North
What's included
Learn about the culinary history of Chicago and the culture of the River North neighborhood
Classic Italian beef
Chicago’s most famous foods
Expert advice where to go and what to do after the tour
Iconic places for photoshoot
All Fees and Taxes
Chicago-style hot dog
Friendly local guide
The famousChicago deep dish pizza
Detailed itinerary
1
Food makes one of the best memories of any travel. So be welcomed by the River North neighborhood, the best destination for foodies in the Windy City. Sample iconic local food and savor the moments of pleasure choosing your favorite. Start your culinary adventure with Chicago-style hot dog. Witness the reason why it is called beef dragged through the garden and trace its origins in Vienna. Having made it to Chicago, a sausage on a poppy seed bun became popular with baseball fans and at fairs to later conquer the whole city becoming the most popular fast food. You may encounter different variations depending on a vendor, but your guide will introduce the best option to you.
2
Take a stroll around the neighborhood before you get to the next specialty of the City by the Lake. Get acquainted with prominent Chicago deep-dish pizza, which dates back to 1943 and is reportedly invented at Pizzeria Uno with exact author to be uncertain. Make sure the “dish” is 3.1 cm deep and filled with luscious cheese and spicy pepperoni. Savor the taste while listening to captivating facts from the city’s life and history.
3
Be introduced to another favorite of any Chicagoan, which is Italian beef sandwich. The iconic meal awaits you with mouth-watering smell and tasty appearance. Only a glance at that French roll filled with a great amount of sliced roast beef sirloin will evoke an inexplicable desire to have it all. Fall in love with local cuisine and feel the Italian flavor as the Italian immigrants have influenced the Chicago culinary scene the most. Receive some tips on where to eat next from your local guide, who knows all the hidden toothsome gems of the city.
What's not included
Extra food and drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
*Please note: the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations' availability, weather, and other circumstances
*We can accommodate vegetarians and other dietary restrictions. Please notify us in advance if you have any dietary requests.
Meeting point
Meet your guide at the Chicago Theater (underneath the marquee)
About Chicago
Chicago is a vibrant city known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and world-class cuisine. Situated along the shores of Lake Michigan, it offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe.
Top Attractions
Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a famous public park in downtown Chicago, known for its modern art and architecture. It's home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as 'The Bean'.
Park
1-2 hours
Free
Art Institute of Chicago
One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, the Art Institute of Chicago houses an impressive collection of artworks from around the world.
Museum
2-3 hours
$25 (adults), Free for children under 14
Skydeck Chicago
Located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, Skydeck Chicago offers breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan. Visitors can step out onto The Ledge, a glass balcony extending out from the building.
Observation Deck
1-2 hours
$28 (adults), $20 (children 3-11)
Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan. It offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and rides.
Entertainment
2-4 hours
Free to enter, individual attractions have varying costs
Wrigley Field
Wrigley Field is a historic baseball park located on the North Side of Chicago. It's home to the Chicago Cubs and offers a unique atmosphere for sports fans.
Sports
2-4 hours (game duration varies)
Ticket prices vary depending on the game and seating
Must-Try Local Dishes
Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust filled with layers of cheese, toppings, and tomato sauce. It's a Chicago classic and a must-try for pizza lovers.
Dinner
Contains gluten and dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some restaurants.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
A steamed or grilled all-beef hot dog topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt, all served on a poppy seed bun.
Snack
Contains gluten and dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some hot dog stands.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced beef cooked in its own juices and served on an Italian roll. It's typically dipped in the juices and topped with sweet or hot peppers.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains gluten and beef. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some Italian beef restaurants.
Chicago-Style Popcorn
A sweet and savory snack made with caramel and cheese-flavored popcorn, often sold in colorful boxes at street corners and ballgames.
Snack
Contains dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some popcorn stands.
Popular Activities
Kayaking on the Chicago River
Biking along Lake Michigan
Rock climbing at First Ascent
Picnicking in Millennium Park
Yoga in the park
Spa treatments at The Peninsula Chicago
Visiting the Art Institute of Chicago
Attending a performance at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Chicago for outdoor activities, festivals, and sightseeing. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's parks and attractions.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Polish, Chinese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Chicago is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Some areas of the city have higher crime rates, and visitors should research their destinations before traveling.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Avoid walking alone in isolated or poorly lit areas, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- O'Hare International Airport • 27 km (17 miles) from city center
- Midway International Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center
By train
Union Station, Ogilvie Transportation Center
By bus
Greyhound Station, Megabus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The 'L' is a convenient and affordable way to get around Chicago. It consists of eight color-coded lines.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
The Loop
Lincoln Park
Wicker Park
Magnificent Mile
Pilsen
Day trips
Navy Pier
2 km (1.2 miles) • Half day to full day
Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan. It offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and rides.
Wrigley Field
10 km (6.2 miles) • Half day to full day
Wrigley Field is a historic baseball park located on the North Side of Chicago. It's home to the Chicago Cubs and offers a unique atmosphere for sports fans.
Museum Campus
3 km (1.9 miles) • Half day to full day
The Museum Campus is a 57-acre park located on the southern tip of Grant Park in Chicago. It's home to several world-class museums, including the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium.
Festivals
Lollapalooza • Early August (4-day festival)
Chicago Jazz Festival • Late August to early September (weekend festival)
Chicago Food Festival • Early September (weekend festival)
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and long wait times
- Use the Ventra card for easy and convenient payments on public transportation
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods and culinary scene to get a true sense of Chicago's character and culture
- Take an architecture river cruise to see the city's stunning skyline and learn about its architectural history
- Visit the city's many parks and outdoor spaces to enjoy nature and outdoor activities, even in the heart of the city
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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