Chicago Prohibition & Architecture Tour: Hidden History Walk
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Tour the streets of Chicago to see the beauty and legacy left behind by the Prohibition Era. See the amazing architecture, iconic sights (both old and new), the city's best spots along the way as you explore on foot.
Available options
Private Tour
Small Group Tour
What's included
Get tips on more sights, activities, and places to eat during your stay.
Enjoy Chicago-style popcorn
Discover architectural gems like Jewelers Building and London House
Join a friendly, local English-speaking guide on a walking tour.
Stroll the Chicago Riverwalk with stunning skyline views
See the Chicago Theater, Wrigley Building, and Tribune Tower.
Conclude at Millennium Park and the iconic Bean sculpture
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We begin at the iconic Chicago Theater marquee, then explore the city.
2
Stop 2
Weather permitting, we’ll explore the Chicago Pedway, a network of underground tunnels used by locals and commuters.
3
We'll pass the City Hall-County Building, home to Chicago’s government and Cook County offices.
4
Stop 4
Next, we’ll stop at the Chicago Picasso in Daley Plaza, a 1967 installation that transformed public art and urban planning.
5
Stop 5
Feel like a local as you walk past iconic buildings, catch stunning skyline views, and share in the daily commute along Chicago’s main artery.
6
Stop 6
Weather permitting, we’ll stroll the award-winning Chicago Riverwalk, enjoying views of iconic buildings like Marina Towers, the Wrigley Building, and the Tribune Tower.
7
Stop 7
Pass by
We’ll pass the iconic Wrigley Building at 400 N Michigan Ave, a historic landmark in the heart of Chicago.
8
Stop 8
Pass by
Next, we’ll pass by Tribune Tower, a 463-foot, 36-story neo-Gothic skyscraper at 435 North Michigan Avenue.
9
Stop 9
Pass by
Next, we’ll pass the Magnificent Mile on North Michigan Avenue, a vibrant district of shops, restaurants, and attractions, created as part of the 1909 Burnham Plan.
10
Stop 10
Step inside a Chicago Landmark, the Cultural Center, where the Mayor has welcomed presidents, royalty, and dignitaries
11
Next is the picturesque Millennium Park, home to the iconic Bean sculpture. Your guide will end the tour here, offering tips on nearby sights, lunch spots, or drinks.
12
Stop 12
We’ll end the tour at the Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as 'The Bean,' the centerpiece of Millennium Park.
What's not included
Additional Food & Drink
Tips/gratuities for your guide
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
50 reviews
5★
44
4★
1
3★
5
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
47 reviews
5★
45
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is a child-friendly tour. Children under 6 join for free. Children ages 6-11 can join at the adult rate. Please inform us of any children in your party at the time of booking, using the special requirements box on the checkout page.
Experiences happen rain, shine, or snow. Please dress accordingly.
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, but please note that this tour covers about 4.8 km (3 miles) of walking.
Meeting point
The Chicago Theatre (underneath the marquee), 175 N. State Street, Chicago, IL 60601
Important notes
Additional Information
In the event of a site closure, we will do our best to replace it with a similar alternative. This tour runs year-round and will proceed rain or shine unless such weather constitutes a dangerous situation.
Dietary Notes
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.
Child Policy
Please inform us if you’ll be bringing a child under the age of 6.
Dress Standards
Comfortable shoes for walking are recommended.
Tipping Your Guide
A tip / gratuity for your guide is not included in the price of this tour. If you feel that your guide has done their best to provide a personal and engaging experience, giving a gratuity is encouraged.
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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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