Small-Group Tour of Chicago Neighborhoods: North and South Side

Chicago , United States

Small-Group Tour of Chicago Neighborhoods: North and South Side

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(50 reviews)

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

This unique tour of Chicago will allow for tourist to see most of Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods and city parks. There is no other tour that tours multiple neighborhoods in Chicago. Some tours show 1 or 2 neighborhoods, we travel through the South Side, North Side, Southwest, Northwest and a portion of Downtown showing more then 10 neighborhoods and attractions.

Available options

Small-Group Tour of Chicago Neighborhoods: North and South Side

Pickup included

What's included

Phone charging port.

Headphones to hear guide.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Travelers will see the neighborhood and home of 44th President of the United States and plaque where Michelle Obama was 1st kissed! Travelers will tour the college campus of The University of Chicago that attracts students from around the world where many remain post graduation in the historical Hyde Park. In addition to the medical professionals from The University of Chicago Medicine and the local residents, the neighborhood is a true melting pot. With real estate in the area ranging from multi million dollar homes to $600 monthly apartments, Hype Park is a tour favorite!

Travelers will see the historical Du Paul University and its breathtaking beautiful neighborhood! The beauty of Lincoln Park rivals any neighborhood in America with its traditional to modern, frame to brick homes, shops, restaurants and so much more!

Travelers will be amazed by Chicago’s beautiful Gold Coast neighborhood and parks.

Stop 4 Pass by

From the tour van, tourist will see the city’ neighborhoods and parks including Wrigley Field (Go Cubs!)

Travelers will learn Bronzeville’s history of African Americans leaving the south and getting off at the last stop in Chicago. While some stopped in St. Louis and other cities, many stayed in until the last stop and knew to get off when the conductor yelled “I don’t care where you go but you have to gotta get outta here”! Travelers will learn of the naming of Bronzeville in relation to African American skin as will as see Pilgrim Baptist Church that many refer to it as the birth of gospel music! With Bronzeville being revitalized, travelers will see the new next to the old. Travelers will see a slice of black life.

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

29 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.2

21 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

FOR GROUPS OF 12 OR MORE TRAVELERS, 7 DAYS NOTICE IS REQUIRED.

Meeting point

The front entrance of the Chicago Theater. **If you staying at a Chicago downtown hotel, we will pick you up from the hotel.

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