The 4 Best Chicago History Tours

1.Chicago in a Day: Food, History & Architecture Walking Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,153 reviews · 4 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $100Our pick

Spend about four and a half hours walking from the Chicago Theatre through the Pedway, Riverwalk, Magnificent Mile, and Millennium Park. Guides such as Dave, Dash, Rich, and John mix architecture and local history with deep-dish pizza, popcorn, a Chicago hot dog, Italian beef, and other samples. The group is capped at 12.

“A great introduction to both the architecture and cuisine of the Windy City! Dave was a terrific guide with vast knowledge of Chicago history.”

Check availability →Read our full review

2.Field Museum of Natural History Ticket or VIP Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 717 reviews · 1 day · from $29Best value

Visit Chicago's Field Museum for a full day of dinosaurs, ancient cultures, gems, and wildlife. Choose general admission, a Discovery Pass, All-Access, or an Early Access VIP Tour with a docent. The VIP option limits the group to 20 and includes early dinosaur viewing, Sue, Maximo, and all-access entry.

“I’m totally satisfied. The museum is simply awesome.”

Check availability →Read our full review

3.Field Museum of Natural History Admission Tickets

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 489 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $29

Spend about four hours exploring Chicago’s Field Museum on your own, from SUE the T. Rex and Egyptian mummies to ancient American cultures, gems, live reptiles, and Underground Adventure. Your admission includes free daily docent-led tours and ticketed exhibits. Special exhibits and 3D films may cost extra.

“A very large and interesting museum. Great dinosaur and early people areas. Beautiful artifacts from around the world.”

Check availability →Read our full review

4.Chicago Walking Tour: Historic Treasures of Chicago

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 362 reviews · from $35

See the Wrigley Building, Palmer House lobby, Carbide and Carbon Building, Reliance Building, and Chicago Cultural Center with a certified guide. Guides such as Bob, John, Jim, and Maureen bring Chicago’s architecture and retail history to life. The tour costs $35, includes Architecture Center galleries, and ends downtown.

“Our guide, Jim, was amazing! He was very knowledgeable and thorough. I enjoyed learning about the history Chicago and would recommend this tour to anyone visiting Chicago, or locals who want to learn more about their city!”

Check availability →Read our full review