American Airlines Vacations logo

  • public English
  • Destinations
  • AAdvantage®

Vacation packages from Chicago

Choose 2 or more:

Type text to display a list of choices

Write a date in the format: MM/DD/YYYY

Enter to select travel class and passengers

Best vacation deals with United Packages from Philadelphia to Mexico City!

cmp-location-selector-label-collapsed-menssage cmp-location-selector-label-description-origin

cmp-location-selector-label-collapsed-menssage cmp-location-selector-label-description-destination

You may also like...

  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Albuquerque
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Auckland
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Amsterdam
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Anchorage
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to St. John’s (Antigua and Barbuda)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Aspen
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Athens
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Atlanta
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Oranjestad (Aruba)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Austin
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Asheville
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Anguilla
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Barranquilla
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Barcelona
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Hamilton (Bermuda)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Bridgetown (Barbados)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Bloomington
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Nashville
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Brisbane
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Bogota
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Kralendijk (Bonaire)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Boston
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Budapest
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Buffalo
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Baltimore
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Belize City
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Paris
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Charleston
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Charlotte
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Colorado Springs
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Copenhagen
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Corpus Christi
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Cartagena
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Cancun
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Curacao
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Cozumel
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Daytona Beach
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Dubrovnik
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Washington, D.C.
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Denver
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Dallas-Fort Worth
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Dublin
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Edinburgh
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Vail
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to North Eleuthera
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to El Paso
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Newark
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to The Florida Keys and Key West
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Buenos Aires
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Fairbanks
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Rome
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Fort-de-France (Martinique)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Grand Bahama Island
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Frankfurt
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Grand Cayman
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Guadalajara
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to George Town
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Rio de Janeiro
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Glasgow
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to St. George's (Grenada)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Green Bay
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Sao Paulo
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Geneva
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Steamboat Springs
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Helsinki
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Hilton Head Island
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Tokyo
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Oahu
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Houston
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Ibiza
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Seoul
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Jackson Hole
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Jacksonville
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to New York
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Juneau
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Reykjavik
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Kingston
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Big Island Hawaii
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Krakow
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Las Vegas
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Los Angeles
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to London
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Kauai
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Lima
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Milan
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Liberia (Costa Rica)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Lisbon
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Madrid
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Manchester
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Montego Bay
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Kansas City
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Orlando
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Memphis
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Mexico City
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Marsh Harbour
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Miami
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Milwaukee
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Male
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Madison
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Minneapolis
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to New Orleans
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Montrose
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Monterrey
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Munich
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Montevideo
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Myrtle Beach
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Mazatlan
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Nadi
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Naples
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Nassau
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Maui
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Oklahoma City
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Norfolk
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Port-au-Prince (Haiti)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to West Palm Beach
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Portland
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Beijing
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Perth
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Phoenix
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Providenciales (Turks and Caicos Islands)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Pensacola
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Puerto Plata
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Papeete, Tahiti
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Prague
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Palm Springs
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Panama
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Punta Cana
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Shanghai
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Puerto Vallarta - Riviera Nayarit
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Rapid City
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Reno
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Fort Myers
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Santa Fe
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to San Diego
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to San Antonio
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Savannah
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Santiago
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Santo Domingo
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Seattle
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to San Francisco
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Shreveport
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to San Jose
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Los Cabos
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to San Jose (Costa Rica)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to San Juan
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Basseterre (Saint Kitts and Nevis)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Salt Lake City
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Sacramento
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Anaheim
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Sarasota
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Saint Louis
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to St. Thomas
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Saint Croix
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Kingstown (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to St. Maarten
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Sydney
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Tampa
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Tulsa
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Tucson
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Berlin
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Quito
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Vieux Fort (Saint Lucia)
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Venice
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Destin
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Santa Cruz
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Montreal
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Vancouver
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Calgary
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Toronto
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo
  • Vacation packages from Chicago to Zurich

tour packages from chicago

  • (917)-725-2038
  • Track Order

Modify Search

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

2-3 3-4 5-6 7-8

8-9 9-10 10+ All

Tours From Chicago

1-day chicago to milwaukee public market and milwaukee art museum tour tour code : gol-chi-139.

1-Day Chicago to Milwaukee Public Market and Milwaukee Art Museum Tour

Departure City : Chicago IL

Available Days : Tue, Wed, Fri & Sat

Highlights : Discover the mechanics behind how motorcycles work and learn about the iconic history of Harley-Davidson through a gallery of bikes from 1903 to the present. Visit Miller Brewery to learn about the beer production process and taste authentic beer. Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum, one of the largest art museums in the United States

  • Minimum 2 people

1-Day Chicago City Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-115

1-Day Chicago City Tour

Available Days : Mon & Wed

Highlights : Welcome to the amazing city of Chicago. Check out the classical landmarks in Chicago while getting amazed by its post-modern architectures. Discover the stories behind the city’s most significant buildings such as Cloud Gate and Chicago Theatre. Take an in-depth tour of the city of Chicago and visit 360 Chicago for a full 360-degree panoramic view of Chicago from above. Explore Millenium Park and Grant Park. 

  • Minimum of 2 guests required.
  • we can provide door-to-door pickup and drop-off to hotels in downtown Chicago (hotels need to be located within 5 miles of the boarding point) Service Fee: $30/person.

4-Day Chicago to Indianapolis, Chattanooga, Nashville and Great Smoky Mountains Sightseeing Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-123

4-Day Chicago to Indianapolis, Chattanooga, Nashville and Great Smoky Mountains Sightseeing Tour

Available Days : Special Dates

Highlights : Here is the opportunity for you to go and explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Knoxville, Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum, Dixie Stampede, Chattanooga, Nashville, Rock City, Ruby Falls, Tennessee, Indiana state Museum, Indiana state House, Mammoth Cave National Park,  and  more on this exciting Chicago Guided Bus Tour.

4-Day Chicago to Detroit, Milwaukee, Mackinac Island and Great Lakes Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-124

4-Day Chicago to Detroit, Milwaukee, Mackinac Island and Great Lakes Tour

Available Days : Thursday

Highlights : Great Lakes Tour: Experience the breathtaking landscapes of three of the five Great Lakes, all located within the United States—Lake Michigan, the largest freshwater lake in the world, Lake Superior, and Lake Huron, which boasts the longest shoreline among the Great Lakes. Four Lakeshore Cities: Visit Chicago, the third-largest city in the U.S.; Milwaukee, a major industrial hub; Green Bay, a port city on the St. Lawrence Seaway; and Sault Ste. Marie, one of Michigan's oldest cities, along with the picturesque Traverse City. Mackinac Island: Once listed among the world's ten most beautiful islands, Mackinac Island is a true gem of the Great Lakes, offering a unique fall experience with a horse-drawn carriage ride through the vibrant autumn colors. Other highlights include Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore along Lake Superior, and the charming Holland Village. Amber Twin Falls: Known for their coppery hue, these waterfalls are a stunning sight, especially in the fall when surrounded by the red, yellow, and orange hues of the season.

  • During maple season from 09/192024 to 10/10/2024, the hotel will charge an additional $60.00 per room per night. Minimum of 2 people to be operated. we can provide door-to-door pickup and drop-off to hotels in downtown Chicago (hotels need to be located within 5 miles of the boarding point) Service Fee: $30/person.  

4-Day Chicago to Detroit, Ontario, Toronto, Cleveland, Niagara Falls US and Canada Side Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-130

4-Day Chicago to Detroit, Ontario, Toronto, Cleveland, Niagara Falls US and Canada Side Tour

Highlights :  Visiting the Henry Ford Museum, exploring the past glory of Motor City, aka Detroit. Enjoy the Niagara Falls from both the Canadian and US side, be on the Skylon Tower and Maid of Mist. Enjoy the stunning view of Toronto and Lake Ontario by reaching the top of CN Tower.  Go to the holy land of Rock ‘n’ Roll- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum located at Cleveland. Note: 1. If you hold a U.S. or Canadian passport: You must bring a valid U.S. or Canadian passport. 2. If you hold a U.S. permanent resident ID or Canadian permanent resident ID: You must bring a valid passport and a U.S. or Canadian permanent resident ID. Make sure your U.S. or Canadian permanent resident ID is valid and carry it with you. 3.If you do not hold the above documents: Please prepare the corresponding travel visa in advance according to the instructions of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). For details, please click here

  • Hotel breakfast.

5-Day Chicago to Cleveland, Millennium Park, Niagara Falls, Toronto and Detroit Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-133

5-Day Chicago to Cleveland, Millennium Park, Niagara Falls, Toronto and Detroit Tour

Highlights : 1. See the master piece of design- Cloud Gate at Millennium Park 2. Enjoy the Niagara Falls from both the Canadian and US side, be on the Skylon Tower and Maid of Mist. 3. Enjoy the stunning view of Toronto and Lake Ontario by reaching the top of CN Tower.  4. Visiting the Henry Ford Museum, exploring the past glory of Motor City, aka Detroit. 5. Go to the holy land of Rock ‘n’ Roll- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum located at Cleveland.   Itinerary for departure schedule on 08/03: DAY1 Chicago - Detroit - London, Ontario DAY2 London, Ontario - Toronto  DAY3 Niagara Falls DAY4 Cleveland - Chicago DAY5 Chicago City Tour Note: 1. If you hold a U.S. or Canadian passport: You must bring a valid U.S. or Canadian passport. 2. If you hold a U.S. permanent resident ID or Canadian permanent resident ID: You must bring a valid passport and a U.S. or Canadian permanent resident ID. Make sure your U.S. or Canadian permanent resident ID is valid and carry it with you. 3.If you do not hold the above documents: Please prepare the corresponding travel visa in advance according to the instructions of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). For details, please click here

5-Day Chicago to Millennium Park, Milwaukee, Holland, Great Lakes and Chicago City Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-125

5-Day Chicago to Millennium Park, Milwaukee, Holland, Great Lakes and Chicago City Tour

Available Days : Thu & Special Dates

Highlights : Five days to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the three major lakes in the Great Lakes region of the United States, all of which are located in Lake Michigan in the United States, Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world, and Lake Huron, which has the longest shoreline among the Great Lakes. Famous cities along the five great lakes: Chicago, Milwaukee and Traverse City along Lake Michigan, Green Bay along Green Bay, and Sault Ste. Mackinac Island, which was once selected as one of the top ten most beautiful islands in the world and known as the treasure of the Great Lakes in North America; Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Scenic Area with beautiful beaches.   Itinerary for departure schedule on Thursday: DAY1 Chicago - Green Bay - Escanaba DAY2 Lake Superior - Sault Ste. Marie - St Ignace DAY3 Mackinac Island - Traverse City DAY4 Holland - Chicago DAY5 Chicago City Tour

During the peak foliage season from September 18, 2024 - October 10, 2024, a surcharge of $60.00 per room per night will apply (mandatory value-added item).

5-Day Chicago to Indianapolis, Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Chattanooga and Mammoth Cave National Park Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-165

5-Day Chicago to Indianapolis, Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Chattanooga and Mammoth Cave National Park Tour

Available Days : Wed & Thu

Highlights : 1. Explore Motorsports Hall of Fame. 2. Be in the National Park with most visitors in US -- Great Smoky Mountains. 3. Southern dinner show Dixie Stampede featuring America’s civil war. 4. Tour in Lookout Mountain:  Rock City, Ruby Falls, Incline Railway. 5. Discover the stories behind the city’s most significant buildings such as Cloud Gate and Chicago Theatre. 6. Take an in-depth tour of the city of Chicago and visit 360 Chicago for a full 360-degree panoramic view of Chicago from above.7. Explore Millenium Park and Grant Park.   Itinerary for Thursday departures is as follows:DAY1 Chicago - Indianapolis - London, KYDAY2 London, KY - Great Smoky Mountains National Park - ChattanoogaDAY3 Chattanooga - Lookout MountainDAY4 Mammoth Cave National Park - Chicago DAY5 Chicago City Tour

6-Day Chicago to The Art Institute of Chicago, Grant Park, Niagara Falls, Old Fort Niagara, Detroit, Cleveland, Toronto and CN Tower Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-CHI-171

6-Day Chicago to The Art Institute of Chicago, Grant Park, Niagara Falls, Old Fort Niagara, Detroit, Cleveland, Toronto and CN Tower Tour (Free Airport Pickup)

Highlights : Take a wonderful photo in front of the famous Cloud Gate, also known as "The Bean"; take a Chicago Architecture Cruise to admire the city's skyline; board the 360° Chicago Observation Deck to overlook Chicago from the air Beautiful view of the city. [Classic Music Journey] Cleveland's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame displays unparalleled depth and breadth of exhibits on classic rock, pop, and heavy metal music. [Natural Wonders of the World] Take the Horn Cruise to admire Niagara Falls from a water perspective, climb the Tianlong Tower to overlook the Falls from an aerial perspective, and check out the War Castle to learn about the past and present of the falls. [Charming Toronto] The CN Tower defines Toronto's skyline and is a famous Canadian landmark; Dundas Square is Toronto's famous commercial center and public square. [Car Culture in Detroit] Enter Detroit, the world's traditional automobile center, visit the Ford Motor Museum to explore the past glory of the automobile city, and check in at the headquarters of General Motors. Note: 1. If you hold a U.S. or Canadian passport: You must bring a valid U.S. or Canadian passport. 2. If you hold a U.S. permanent resident ID or Canadian permanent resident ID: You must bring a valid passport and a U.S. or Canadian permanent resident ID. Make sure your U.S. or Canadian permanent resident ID is valid and carry it with you. 3.If you do not hold the above documents: Please prepare the corresponding travel visa in advance according to the instructions of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). For details, please click here

6-Day Chicago to Milwaukee, Lake Huron, Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Traverse City and Chicago Night Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-CHI-166

6-Day Chicago to Milwaukee, Lake Huron, Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Traverse City and Chicago Night Tour (Free Airport Pickup)

Available Days : Wednesday

Highlights : Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the three lakes in the Great Lakes: Lake Huron, Lake Superior, and Lake Michigan! Explore the lively city of Chicago, Milwaukee, Green Bay, a port city on the St. Lawrence Seaway, and the ancient city of Sault Ste. Marie. Discover the Painted Wall National Lakeside Park on the shoreline of Lake Superior, hike the huge sand dunes, and visit the unique town of Holland Village.

During the peak foliage season from September 18, 2024 - October 9, 2024, a surcharge of $240 per room will apply (mandatory value-added item).

You may also like

Tours From Boston

Tours From Boston

Tours From New York

Tours From New York

Tours From Washington DC

Tours From Washington DC

Tours From Philadelphia

Tours From Philadelphia

Tours From New Jersey

Tours From New Jersey

Tours From Houston

Tours From Houston

Tours From Edison NJ

Tours From Edison NJ

Tours From San Antonio

Tours From San Antonio

  • Privacy and Cookies
  • Refund And Cancellation Policy
  • Price Protection

Vacations in Chicago

Vacations in Chicago

Search hundreds of travel sites at once for vacation package deals in chicago.

Free to use There are no hidden charges or fees.

Filter your deals Filter by free cancellation, free breakfast and more.

Millions of reviews Check ratings based on millions of real guest reviews.

Bundle and save Save money when you bundle your flight + hotel.

Cheap Chicago package deals

Most popular chicago flight and hotel deals, last minute vacation packages to chicago, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a vacation in chicago, tips for finding chicago package deals.

  • There are loads of types of vacations in Chicago and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $312; Family vacation $302; Romantic vacation $332; Luxury vacation $320; Budget vacation $237.

Where to stay in Chicago

Chicago vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

  • Costa Rica package vacations
  • Fort Lauderdale package vacations
  • Hawaii package vacations
  • Honolulu package vacations
  • Kahului package vacations
  • Key West package vacations
  • Las Vegas package vacations
  • London package vacations
  • Los Angeles package vacations
  • Miami package vacations
  • Miami Beach package vacations
  • Montego Bay package vacations
  • Myrtle Beach package vacations
  • Nassau package vacations
  • Paris package vacations
  • Playa del Carmen package vacations
  • Puerto Rico package vacations
  • Punta Cana package vacations
  • Rome package vacations
  • Saint Martin package vacations

Get the Hottest Deals First!

Win a Trip of a Lifetime to Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, & Laos

Special Offers

The collette difference.

Collette Difference 400x400 expertlydesigned

Expertly Designed

We get it. You’re not the homebody type. We aren’t either. Your passion, needs, and desires have shaped our business. Destination experts hand-craft transformative experiences designed specifically with you – our fellow traveler – at heart. We wouldn't trust your experience with anyone else.

Collette Difference guided touring reimagined

Guided Touring Reimagined

We know you want to explore and also dive in. We’re curious travelers, just like you, so rest assured, you’ll experience must-sees and connect with the people and culture that define the destination. You’ll eat in locals’ homes, take cooking classes, travel by trains and tuk tuks, explore cities with food tours, and stay in igloos, castles, and chateaus.

Collette Difference value

Value Beyond Price

Your time is one of your most precious commodities, so you should spend more of it in the destination, not driving between places. We design tours that spend the fewest hours on the coach. One-night stays are a rarity. This is your trip, and you shouldn’t feel rushed. With choice, flexibility, and free time, take it all in – this is your tour.

Confidently Collette

Travel with trust. Because this is your trip - something you've planned for and dreamed about. You should feel confident in your journey every step of the way.

Industry-Leading Travel Protection

Cancel for any reason (bad hair day applies) up to 24 hours before your tour leaves and get a full money-back refund. Collette issued a record-breaking $185 million cash back to travelers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Experience & Expertise

We've been doing this for a long time. Since 1918, in fact. Collette is the most experienced and longest-running tour operator in North America. You choose...

Traveling Well

Our team is on the pulse of world events and protocols, so you are kept fully aware and feel well-prepared for your trip.

tour packages from chicago

Service Rating

Independent

Why Guided Travel

You're a traveler with places to go. We'll take care of the details. You embrace the journey.

why guided deskt v2

Social Connections

Meet a group of people who share your love of travel. Learn from locals. Forge friendships in the coolest places.

Independence

There's plenty of time built into our itineraries, plus optional tours, Choice on Tour excursions, and more. It's your trip, your way.

Expertly Planned

You know what you want to see and do - let a team of experts handle all the details from the must-sees to centrally-located accommodations and local lessons.

The Best Pacing

Don’t rush – this is your time to see the world. Get more time in the destination, and enjoy an ideal balance of included excursions and free time.

Our Best Moments

When you go, capture all those incredible moments, and use the hashtag #GoCollette so that we can share your joy!

2023 travel weekly readers choice

Featured Tours

Collette travelers choose from 160 tours across all 7 continents, as well as 5 travel styles including small group touring and destination spotlights. Check out some trending tours for inspiration on your next adventure.

Explorations

tour packages from chicago

Tuscan & Umbrian Countryside featuring Italy's Charming Hill Towns

tour packages from chicago

African Safari: Kenya and Tanzania

tour packages from chicago

Alaska's Northern Lights

tour packages from chicago

Winter in Croatia featuring Plitvice Lakes and the Adriatic Coast

tour packages from chicago

Icelandic Adventure

tour packages from chicago

Costa Rica: A World of Nature featuring Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano & Manuel Antonio National Park

tour packages from chicago

Mediterranean Coastal Journey Spain, France & Italy

tour packages from chicago

Exploring South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana

$4,049 pp* $4,399 pp.

tour packages from chicago

The Best of Ireland featuring the Wild Atlantic Way

Spotlight on northern italy featuring venice, verona & the dolomites, $3,549 pp* $3,699 pp.

tour packages from chicago

Historical Greenbrier featuring Washington D.C. & Williamsburg

$1,799 pp* $1,999 pp.

tour packages from chicago

Spain's Costa del Sol & Madrid

Find a travel agency.

Once you've found the perfect Collette tour, your local travel agent can assist you in making reservations. To find a preferred travel agent in your area, please enter your 5-digit zip code, then click Search.

Enter a Whole or Partial Zip Code

Please tell us everything, we want it all.

We really value your feedback, please be open an honest. Tell us where we can improve, how we can get better. This feedback is anonymous, but if you would like us to get in touch with you regarding an issue provide your email address as part of your feedback and we will get right back to you.

Talk to an Expert

Please fill out the form below, and a Collette Expert will contact you shortly.

  • Yes, I'm a Travel Professional
  • Yes, I am working with a Travel Professional
  • I am traveling with 8 or more travelers

View or Download

tour packages from chicago

  • < Back to Home
  • Destinations
  • North America
  • < Back to United States

Views of Chicago’s skyline from the water

Chicago Vacations: the Windy City

Chicago is a city of Jazz, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Wrigley Field. From the Art Institute of Chicago, boasting an incredible Impressionist collection, to the architecture along the Chicago River, there’s enough art here to keep the most avid enthusiast busy. Work up an appetite because Chicago is one of the world’s leading culinary cities, with Michelin starred restaurants, deep-dish pizza, and world-famous hot dogs. Whether you’re planning a family vacation to the top of Willis Tower or want to explore Chicago’s luxury restaurants, a Liberty Travel Chicago vacation package can take you there.

Chicago vacations map

Chicago at a Glance

Currency: U.S. Dollar ($)

Tipping Customs: Tip anywhere between 10 – 15%, unless service charge is added

Power Up: Type A or Type B plug, 120 V (the standard in the United States)

Popular Drink: Jeppson’s Malört

Must Eat: Chicago Hot Dog and Deep Dish Pizza

Language: English

Weather: Late spring, summer, and early fall, being warm and mild.

Best Time to Visit: Visit between late May and early October for the best weather.

Chicago Deals

Meet our chicago experts.

Jenine Williams, travel agent

Jenine Williams

Danielle Lyadri, travel agent

Danielle Lyadri

Debra Kalsmith Sternberg, travel agent

Debra Kalsmith-Sternberg

Carol Butto, travel agent

Carol Ann Butto

Barbara Burpulis McMahon, travel agent

Barbara Burpulis McMahon

Susie Wright, travel agent

Susie Wright

Singer in Chicago at a famous jazz club

Top Things to Do in Chicago

All that Jazz in Chicago Whether you want to hang in Al Capone’s former haunt at the Green Mill, or are looking for the family-friendly music scene at the Elastic Arts Foundation, Chicago’s musical culture rings with the sounds of Nat King Cole and Louis Armstrong.

Get Inspired by the Impressionists The Art Institute of Chicago is known for its Impressionist masterpieces, but the collection spans the eras.

Chicago’s Architectural Heritage Take the Chicago Architectural Foundation River Cruise and afterward, visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio to learn about the life and work of this leading architect.

Catch the Cubs at Wrigley Field Visit the historic ballpark, buy yourself a hot dog, and cheer for the lovable Cubs.

Visit the Willis Tower Observation Deck The Willis Tower is the tallest building in the western hemisphere; take in the views from the Skydeck.

A saxophone a signature instrument in Chicago’s jazz

Our Commitment to You

For over 70 years, the one-on-one personal experience has been at the very heart of Liberty Travel’s mission. It's what we've always done, and now it’s more important than ever.

We’re committed to serving you through:

  • GUIDANCE with our expert insight and travel knowledge.
  • VALUE with irresistible rates, offers and benefits.
  • PEACE OF MIND to book with confidence.
  • SERVICE by being by your side before, during, and after your trip.

Real people helping real people. Beside you every step of the way.

The Liberty Travel Experience

At Liberty Travel it’s the people who make a difference. Our travel experts craft the perfect trip for every traveler through our award-winning customer service. Real people helping real people. Beside you every step of the way.

Connect by Phone

Connect By Phone

Connect in Store

Connect In Store

Consultant Search icon

Connect With An Expert

Sponsored Vacations

World Travel Awards Winner 2024 United States' Leading Travel Agency

Winner of the World Travel Awards for United States' Leading Travel Agency

We are honored to be named United States’ Leading Travel Agency at the 31st annual World Travel Awards. Thank you for trusting us with crafting your incredible vacations.

Contact Form

Fill out the form below to get in touch with us.

Liberty Travel is dedicated to helping you get the best value and greatest experiences out of any trip. One of our Travel Consultants will respond to your enquiry within 1 business day.

If you would like to speak with a consultant now, please call 1-888-343-2128 .

A Liberty Travel consultant or one of our third party independent advisors who are part of our member network, Envoyage will contact you within 1 business day. If you would like to speak to a Liberty Travel consultant now, please call 1-888-343-2128 . Non-refundable consulting fees or service fees may be required to start the planning process based upon the type of booking being requested. You acknowledge that by submitting this inquiry form that your information may be disclosed to our third party independent advisors who are part of our member network, Envoyage for the purpose of facilitating your inquiry and your travel services booking. Accordingly, you are deemed to consent to the collection, use and disclosure of your personal information by us to our third party independent advisors who are part of our member network, Envoyage and relevant travel service providers for the purpose of facilitating your inquiry and your travel services booking and in accordance with the Liberty Travel Privacy Notice .

Feedback Form

  • Website Feedback
  • Service Feedback

Flight Centre Redirect Message

Flight Center is now Liberty Air Experts. Expect the same level of expertise on all varieties of flights, all around the world.

This store is now closed

The store you’re looking for is no longer open for business. Please try searching for another location near you. Thank you for your patience!

  • Experts Near Me
  • Destination Experts

Looking for a travel expert that’s close to you? Select your state.

Don't see your state? Select all states or select the state nearest to you.

Guidance

Expert insight & travel knowledge

Value

Irresistible rates, offers & benefits

Peace of Mind

Peace of Mind

Reassurance to book with confidence

tour packages from chicago

Beside you every step of the way

Which destination do you want your travel expert to specialize in?

Africa vacations

Booking 10 or more rooms?

New Hub Store Structure

Don't show me this again

Protect Your Trip »

The 16 best chicago tours for 2024, according to reviews.

Foodies, architecture buffs and historians alike will appreciate these tours of the Windy City.

tour packages from chicago

The 16 Best Chicago Tours for 2024

Chicago First Lady Cruise Summer 2022

Alejandro Reyes | Choose Chicago

One of the best ways to sightsee your way through a new city is with the help of a local. With this in mind, U.S. News rounded up some of Chicago 's best guided tours. Whether you're sailing past Willis Tower on a river cruise or sampling some of Chicago's best deep-dish pizza on a foodie excursion, you'll gain a cultural and historical understanding of the Windy City during these tours.

Editor’s Pick: Wendella Boats – Chicago River Architecture Tour

Price: Adults from $44; kids from $20 Duration: 1.5 hours

U.S. News independently paid to send Cortney Fries , an award-winning writer based in Chicago, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. The Wendella Boats Chicago River Architecture Tour was selected by our team as an Editor’s Pick thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews.

Cruise three branches of the Chicago River taking in views of famous Chicago landmarks while a knowledgeable guide provides an overview of the architecture and interesting lessons in Chicago history on this popular boat tour. For instance, did you know that the Lyric Opera House was built in the shape of a giant throne? Learn how the Chicago River is the only natural river reversed by humankind. View iconic buildings, such as the Merchandise Mart and Willis Tower. Hear about what the four stars on the Chicago flag represent, the legend of the O’Leary cow starting the Great Chicago Fire, the statue atop the Chicago Board of Trade and Chicago’s famous drawbridges.

Refreshments and snacks are sold on board. Sit on the top deck to listen to the live tour with unobstructed views, but bring a jacket or sun hat if it’s cool or sunny. Climate-controlled seating is offered below, as are restrooms. Tours are generally available daily beginning at 9:30 a.m., with multiple departures throughout the day and evening. Short on time, or have kids in tow? Try the 45-minute version of this architecture tour.

Chicago architecture boat tour

Cortney Fries

Why we love it:

  • Learn about the dense variety of architectural styles along the Chicago River without having to navigate crowded streets.
  • Engaging guides make for a memorable experience and provide glimpses into different parts of the city you might want to explore more during your trip.
  • Tours depart from Michigan Avenue near the Wrigley Building. Give yourself plenty of time to find parking and also enjoy ample shopping and dining options nearby.

– Cortney Fries

Check prices & availability on:

Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise

Price: From $54 Duration: 1.5 hours

The Chicago Architecture Foundation's River Cruise ferries passengers along the Chicago River as docents from the Chicago Architecture Center regale them with the stories behind more than 50 notable buildings. The volunteer docents repeatedly win high praise from reviewers for their in-depth knowledge of the city's history and its structures. Many reviewers called this the best thing to do in Chicago. The cruising vessels, part of the Chicago's First Lady Cruises fleet, can carry up to 250 people and boast full-service bars and open-air upper decks.

For a different perspective of the city's iconic architecture, consider the twilight sailing, which costs a few dollars extra. For an additional $5, you can also gain admittance to the Chicago Architecture Center (which usually costs $14 on its own).

Chicago Food & City Tours – Gateway to the West Loop Food Tour

Price: Adults from $85; kids from $50 Duration: 3 hours

This foodie tour centers on the West Loop neighborhood's incredible dining scene, and provides insider insights to the area's evolution from a meat-packing and warehouse district to the Restaurant Row of today. Foods you may sample include doughnuts, hamburgers, pizza and cupcakes. Guides regularly earn five stars from travelers for their insight and enthusiasm. Reviewers find the tour worth the price for the generous amounts of food provided. What's more, group sizes are restricted to 16 people and tours do not involve extensive walking (a little more than half a mile).

Tours are offered Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 1 p.m. Hungry for more? The company also offers a tour inspired by the TV show "The Bear," which is set in Chicago, as well as a tour all about the city's most iconic foods.

Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours – Chicago Lakefront Museum Campus Tour

Price: From $65 Duration: 2 hours

The Chicago Lakefront/Museum Campus tour offered by Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours showcases many of the city's most popular attractions along its 5- to 6-mile route, including Millennium Park (the starting point), Grant Park , Monroe Harbor, the Field Museum , Shedd Aquarium , Soldier Field and the Adler Planetarium. Participants applaud tour guides for their expertise and professionalism and say this is a safe, fun way to see the city's top sights in a short amount of time.

Note that riders must be at least 12 years old to participate. Tours are available multiple times a day from spring through autumn. The company offers several other Segway tours, some centered around other parts of the city or with specific themes like architecture, crime and ghosts.

Inside Chicago Walking Tours – Dazzling Interiors of the Loop

Price: Adults from $30; kids from $25 Duration: 2 hours

Many travelers are familiar with Chicago's distinct architecture, but its equally captivating indoor spaces are not as well known. This tour reveals interior architectural details that visitors might otherwise miss. Guides take participants inside some of Chicago's most stunning buildings to admire elements like a gilded 80-foot-high ceiling, art deco lobbies, early Frank Lloyd Wright designs and rooms with stained-glass mosaics. Reviewers describe this tour, which involves about 1 1/2 miles of walking, as an informative and entertaining way to learn about the history of Chicago and its diverse, distinctive buildings. Others said this tour is great for first-time visitors and locals alike.

Tours operate Thursday through Monday at 11 a.m. Once you've toured all of the buildings at the street level, consider the company's Chicago Pedway tour, which tours the downtown underground tunnels that residents use to stay warm and dry during bad weather.

Best Chicago Tours

Courtesy of Bobby's Bike Hike Chicago

Bobby's Bike Hike Chicago – Bikes, Bites & Brews Chicago’s Signature Dishes Bike Tour

Price: From $85 Duration: 4 hours

This triple threat tour combines bicycling, food and beer. The 13-mile ride traverses the Gold Coast, Lakeview, Wrigleyville and Lincoln Park neighborhoods with stops for pizza, beer, cupcakes and hot dogs. Reviewers say the pace of the tour is easy and applaud the guides for their fun and engaging commentary. Others said they learned a lot about Chicago, calling the ride entertaining and educational.

Tours are generally offered daily at 11:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. (except during the winter). Note that the evening tour mostly bikes around downtown Chicago. If you're interested in venturing beyond downtown, book the morning tour. Tickets cover the cost of the bike rental as well as food and drinks. Participants must be at least 21 years old. If you're traveling with kids, try the company's Family & Food Bike Tour of Top Attractions.

Chicago Pizza Tours – Original Chicago Pizza Tour

Price: Adults from $75; kids from $45 Duration: 3.5 hours

Enjoy a crash course in what makes Chicago pizza so iconic on this delicious tour. You'll visit four independently run neighborhood pizzerias and sample six or more slices of pizza in a variety of styles (deep dish, tavern, artisanal and Neapolitan, to name a few). You'll meet downtown for your first slice before boarding a bus to neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Lakeview and Bucktown. Reviewers compliment the informative and entertaining tour guides and insist that the tour is about more than just pizza, highlighting the various aspects of Chicago history, architecture and culture that's spotlighted during the nearly half-day excursion.

Tours run Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m. The company also offers pizza crawls of downtown and Bucktown.

Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Tour

Price: Adults from $35; kids from $17 Duration: 2 hours

If you're interested in the darker side of Chicago history, specifically its gangsters and ghosts, consider this walking tour. With a historian leading the way, you'll stroll for about 1.5 miles around the Loop – once known as the "Vice" district in the 1920s and '30s for its rampant partying, speakeasy saloons and underground tunnels used by bootleggers. Participants rave about the guides for their storytelling abilities and say the length of the tour is perfect for when you need a break from the city's more touristy activities.

Tours run four times daily beginning at 11 a.m. The company also runs a Gangster Food Tour that highlights some of the city's most iconic foods like deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, as well as the restaurants that once served as some of Al Capone's old hideouts.

Best Chicago Tours

Courtesy of Big Bus Chicago

Big Bus Chicago – The Big Loop - Red Route

Price: Adults from $49.50; kids from $35.10 Duration: 2 hours

Big Bus Chicago's hop-on, hop-off tours invite tourists to tailor their sightseeing excursions to their preferences by allowing them to spend as much time as they want at any of the 11 stops on the company's red route. Tour-takers can "hop off" a bus and explore any of the top attractions featured along the way, such as Skydeck Chicago , Navy Pier or Millennium Park, and then "hop on" a later bus. If you don't get off the bus, the entire route takes about two hours. Your ticket is valid for 24 hours, so you can hop on and off as much you please.

Buses run every 30 minutes starting at 10 a.m. daily and include prerecorded commentary in both English and Spanish. Reviews from recent travelers were mixed: Some riders loved the convenience of the bus, saying it puts you within easy walking distance of the city's best attractions, but others were disappointed with the quality of the prerecorded commentary and said you should try to seek out the few busses that feature a live guide. If you want to ensure you'll have a live guide on your bus, consider booking the nonstop, 90-minute Sunset Live Tour, which is offered from May to October.

Secret Food Tours: Chicago 

Price: Adults from $79; kids from $69 Duration: 3.5 hours   Follow a local foodie around the Loop district for what the company calls a "moving feast." You'll make six stops to sample some of the city's most notable dishes, including deep-dish pizza, gourmet popcorn, a Chicago-style hot dog, an Italian beef sandwich and a brownie (which was purportedly invented in Chicago). What's more, there's a secret dish revealed the day of the tour. Plus, tours are capped at 12 participants to ensure an intimate experience. Reviewers say guides do an excellent job of highlighting not only Chicago's distinct food scene, but also its history and architecture. They also advise that you'll want to come hungry as the portions are generous.

Tours operate daily at multiple times; the earliest tour departs at 11:30 a.m. The company can also arrange private tours.

Underground Donut Tour – Chicago: Downtown Tour

Price: Adults from $55; kids from $50 Duration: 2 hours   Come hungry for this food tour, which visits four of the best doughnut shops in the city, including Doughnut Vault and Do-Rite Donuts. As you nosh on the sweet treats, your guide will share the history of each shop and the history of doughnuts in Chicago. Travelers recommend this tour for the knowledgeable, engaging guides and the delicious selection of doughnuts. They also say you'll learn about much more than doughnuts, as guides share historical tidbits about Chicago and recommendations for how to make the most of your trip.

Tours operate daily at 10 a.m.; additional 9 a.m. and noon tours are offered Wednesday through Sunday.

Urban Kayak Chicago

Graham Chapman | Choose Chicago

Urban Kayak Chicago Riverwalk – Historic Chicago Tour

Price: From $55 Duration: 2 hours

For a "duck's-eye," up-close view of the city, take Urban Kayak's Historic Chicago Tour. Starting at the Riverwalk , tour-takers paddle their kayaks on the main branch of the Chicago River with periodic stops at points of historical interest, where guides provide information regarding the city's famed architecture. Reviewers say this is a great experience, even for beginners, and recommend the tour for travelers looking for a unique alternative to the popular architecture river cruises. Meanwhile, others note that the experienced guides are skillful at navigating boat traffic.

Tours are offered multiple times a day spring through early fall. Urban Kayak also offers kayak rentals and paddleboarding classes.

Check prices & view availability on:

Shoreline Sightseeing – Skyline Lake Cruise

Price: Adults from $35; kids from $17 Duration: 45 minutes

If you've already taken an architecture cruise on the Chicago River and can't get enough of the views, consider this boat tour. Shoreline Sightseeing Skyline Lake Tours offer unrivaled views of Chicago's skyline, and many photo opportunities, via cruises along the Lake Michigan shoreline. The 6-mile trip provides views of notable landmarks, such as the John Hancock Center, the Willis Tower (aka the Sears Tower), Adler Planetarium and the Field Museum, as well as an informative prerecorded commentary. According to reviewers, these iconic buildings are much more visible from the water than they are on the street, though a few warned that it's difficult to hear the recorded commentary from certain areas of the boat (sit in the middle of the boat if you want to ensure you can hear the narration).

Travelers can purchase drinks at the onboard cash bar. Tours are offered daily spring through autumn (weather permitting) and depart from Navy Pier. Shoreline Sightseeing also offers architecture cruises along the Chicago River.

Best Chicago Tours

Ken Flisek | Courtesy of Tall Ship Windy

Tall Ship Windy – Chicago Skyline Sail

Price: Adults from $49; kids from $39 Duration: 75 minutes

Tall Ship Windy's Chicago Skyline Sail features views of the city from the deck of a 148-foot, four-masted schooner. Reviewers tout the remarkable views of the city's impressive buildings and, weather-permitting, the special experience of being able to actually sail and not rely on the boat's motor. What's more, tour participants commend the crew members for their professionalism, humor and knowledge of Chicago.

From spring through fall, there are generally four sails daily starting at 1 p.m.; the 1 p.m. sailing focuses on piracy in the Great Lakes and the Caribbean. Tall Ship Windy has a full bar on board (drinks are not included in the ticket price). In addition to daily sails, Tall Ship Windy offers evening cruises timed to the fireworks display at Navy Pier, which occurs on select dates in the summer.

Chicago Crime Tours and Experiences – Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

Price: From $42 Duration: 2 hours

If you're a fan of true crime, you'll be intrigued by this bus tour, which explores the city's most famous gangsters and crime scenes. As you drive in a variety of Chicago neighborhoods, including the Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, the Loop, the Magnificent Mile , Old Town and River North, your guide will share stories and you'll watch historic video footage. The bus tour includes stops at the spots where gangsters like Hymie Weiss were killed as well as the site of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre. It also visits locales associated with Al Capone, Frank "the Enforcer" Nitti and Leopold and Loeb, among others. Reviewers laud the tours for providing a unique angle on Chicago's colorful history and describe guides as entertaining.

Tours are offered multiple times a day. For a longer tour with even more stops, consider the company's Night Crimes Tour.

Check prices & availability:

City Experiences – Chicago Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour

Price: Adults from $35; kids from $25 Duration: 30 minutes

Zip across Lake Michigan during this high-speed, narrated half-hour tour. During the ride, you'll see striking views of the Chicago skyline and hear some descriptions of the sights. Visitors praise the crew's knowledge and charisma. They also enjoy whipping along the waves. Keep in mind: The boat is open-air, which means you might get wet. The company also discourages pregnant women and travelers with back or neck sensitivities from participating.

Speedboat rides are offered daily spring through fall. City Cruises also operates a narrated architecture cruise, in addition to brunch and dinner cruises.

You may also be interested in:

  • The Best Chicago Walking Tours
  • The Best Chicago Segway Tours
  • The Best Chicago Boat Tours
  • The Best Hotels in Chicago
  • The Top Romantic Getaways in Illinois

Tags: Chicago , Travel , food and drink , Vacations , Tours , Illinois Vacations , Midwest Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Top things to do in hershey, pa.

Amanda Norcross Aug. 30, 2024

tour packages from chicago

The Best College Town Hotels

Rachael Hood Aug. 29, 2024

tour packages from chicago

Fun Fall Weekend Getaways

Aug. 29, 2024

tour packages from chicago

Best Hoover Dam Tours from Las Vegas

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson Aug. 29, 2024

tour packages from chicago

The Best London Tours

Kim Foley MacKinnon Aug. 29, 2024

tour packages from chicago

The 18 Best Barcelona Tours

John Rodwan Aug. 28, 2024

tour packages from chicago

Best Fall Family Vacations

Aug. 27, 2024

tour packages from chicago

The Top Fall Festivals in the U.S.

Katie Hearsum and Timothy J. Forster Aug. 27, 2024

tour packages from chicago

Top Music-Themed Cruises

Gwen Pratesi Aug. 23, 2024

tour packages from chicago

The Best Rome Tours

Kyle McCarthy and Ann Henson Aug. 23, 2024

tour packages from chicago

Thank you for visiting our site! We noticed you are using a browser we no longer support. To have the best overall experience and avoid issues navigating the site, please click one of the supported browsers to the right to download the latest version for free:

Screenshot (563)

Summer Celebration Drone Show August 31 | 9:45PM | Free

Join us on Saturday, August 31 at 9:45 PM for a dazzling drone show and stay for the award-winning summer fireworks at 10 PM! Drone Show sponsored by Blue Bunny

Search Site

Back to Menu

cruises and tours 1

Unforgettable views. Unparalleled experiences.

Cruises & Tours

Explore chicago by land, water or air.

Whether you’re in town for just one day or are a life-long resident, cruises and tours of Chicago are a great way to see the sights, discover something new, or treat yourself to an unforgettable experience.

From laid-back sightseeing cruises and elegant dining cruises to heart-pumping thrill rides to upscale private charters, Lake Michigan and Chicago River cruises departing from Navy Pier offer a memorable experience for all.

cruises and tours 2 1

Our Cruises & Tours

Odyssey Lake Michigan OLM exterior

City Cruises

Experience Chicago from the water! Enjoy a meal cruise with chef-prepared dishes, live DJ, and stunning views. Or, take a Seadog speedboat ride for an architecture tour or a lakefront speedboat adventure.

Tall Ship Windy Memorial Day Skyline Page Background

Tall Ship Windy

Tall Ship Windy at Navy Pier offers educational boat tours, storytelling, student trips, concert sails, and architectural tours. Enjoy the Chicago skyline aboard our tall ship!

Navy Pier Skyline Lake Cruise Overhead Photo

Shoreline Sightseeing

Discover Chicago’s iconic architecture from our fleet of touring vessels and water taxis. Our guided tours offer captivating stories from knowledgeable guides. Choose your tour, relax, and enjoy the skyline!

odyssey lake michigan

Groups And Private Charters

Perfect for corporate outings and special occasions, group cruises and private charters offer unforgettable experiences for up to 800 guests.

cruises and tours bicycle tours 1

Bicycle Tours

Bike & Roll Chicago allows guests to rent bicycles for a fun experience on the lakefront.

Cruise & Tour Types

Shoreline Architecture River Tours

Shoreline Architecture River Tours

Take Shoreline’s award-winning 75-minute Architecture River Tour to discover Chicago’s renowned landmarks as presented by our expert and entertaining guides. You’ll learn how Chicago rose...

City Cruises – Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

City Cruises – Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan dinner cruises are the perfect setting for celebrating with friends, connecting with colleagues, or a romantic evening. Odyssey Lake Michigan dinner cruises are...

City Cruises – Premier Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

City Cruises – Premier Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

A two-hour Lake Michigan lunch cruise is the perfect way to enjoy time with family or the company of great friends. Retreat from a busy...

City Cruises – Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

City Cruises – Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

Celebrate a special occasion, host a group event or share a romantic evening aboard Spirit of Chicago. Great for parties of all sizes, a Spirit...

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Dinner Cruise

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Dinner Cruise

Catch the Chicago skyline at sunset during the most beautiful time of the year, and join us for a fun, laid-back, 2-hour cruise. Spirit's Lakefront...

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Dinner Cruises

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Dinner Cruises

Odyssey Lake Michigan presents special prix fixe dinner cruises, offering guests the opportunity to try one of Chicago’s most unique dining experiences at an incredible...

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Brunch Cruises

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Brunch Cruises

Whether you’re a native Chicagoan, newcomer, or just visiting, a Spirit of Chicago brunch cruise is the perfect weekend outing. See well-known Chicago attractions from...

City Cruises – Signature Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

City Cruises – Signature Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

With the sunshine reflecting off the lakefront, there’s no better place to enjoy an afternoon in Chicago than aboard a lunch cruise. Departing from Navy...

City Cruises – Seadog River and Lake Architecture Tour

City Cruises – Seadog River and Lake Architecture Tour

Enjoy Chicago’s iconic skyline with an exciting architecture cruise on the Chicago River. Departing from Navy Pier, this 75-minute narrated cruise is the best way...

City Cruises – Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour

City Cruises – Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour

Our Lakefront Speedboat Tour is the best way to view Chicago from the lake, combining an exciting speedboat ride along the shoreline with informative and...

City Cruises – Seadog Extreme Thrill Rides

City Cruises – Seadog Extreme Thrill Rides

With exhilarating high speeds and full 360° spins, this jet-propelled ride blasts off to start and splashes down to stop. Experience full throttle slalom runs,...

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Brunch Cruise

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Brunch Cruise

This two-hour brunch cruise on Odyssey Lake Michigan, departing from Navy Pier, is ideal for capping off an incredible weekend. Enjoy a delicious menu stocked...

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Groups

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Groups

Host a truly unforgettable event on Lake Michigan. Book your group aboard one of Odyssey's regularly scheduled lunch or dinner cruises, or have an event...

Shoreline Sightseeing Group Tours

Shoreline Sightseeing Group Tours

Adventures are meant to be shared. Turn your next family gathering or corporate outing into an awesome adventure by booking with Shoreline. We offer special...

City Cruises – Chicago Elite Private Events

City Cruises – Chicago Elite Private Events

It's your yacht. Let our professional event planners create a custom event just for your group aboard the Chicago Elite. With two fully enClosed ,...

City Cruises – Seadog Groups

City Cruises – Seadog Groups

Planning a special outing for your group? Charter Seadog for an event everyone will enjoy! With the ability to travel both the lake and river,...

Shoreline Sightseeing Water Taxis

Shoreline Sightseeing Water Taxis

Shoreline Sightseeing’s water taxis are a great way to get around town. Starting in May and running through September, our water taxi service offers fast...

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Group Cruises

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Group Cruises

Host an event unlike any other in the city! Book your group aboard one of Spirit’s regularly scheduled lunch, brunch, cocktail or dinner cruises, or...

City Cruises – Premier Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

City Cruises – Premier Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

Experience the city’s most unique floating event venue! City Cruises offers all-inclusive packages, chef-prepared menus, full bar options, and entertainment customized to fit your needs—all...

City Cruises – Signature Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

City Cruises – Signature Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

Shoreline Skyline Lake Tours

Shoreline Skyline Lake Tours

Shoreline’s 40-minute Skyline Lake Tour offers a relaxing way to experience the panoramic of the city’s famed skyline as seen from majestic Lake Michigan. The...

Tall Ship Windy Chicago Skyline Sail

Tall Ship Windy Chicago Skyline Sail

Tall Ship Windy is closed for the season and will reopen in May 2024. Visit the Tall Ship Windy website to stay up to date...

Tall Ship Windy Private Charters & Weddings in Chicago

Tall Ship Windy Private Charters & Weddings in Chicago

A Beautiful Stage for Your Event Set sail on Windy for weddings, parties, corporate functions, reunions, church outings, tour groups, team building and more! Windy...

Costco Travel US homepage

  • Help Center
  • 1-866-921-7925

United States

Start Searching

  • Packages  
  • Hotels  
  • Cruises  
  • Rental Cars  

* Indicates required fields

Rental Period:

pickUpDate - dropOffDate

Pick-Up: pickUpTime - Drop-Off: dropOffTime

Pick-Up Location:

pickUpAddress

pickUpAgencyName

pickUpAgencyAddress

Drop-Off Location:

Same as Pick-Up Location

dropOffAddress

dropOffAgencyName

dropOffAgencyAddress

Coupon Override

Please call.

For drivers under the age of 25, additional fees and/or restrictions may apply.

For information and assistance in completing your reservation, please call:

We're unable to find your location.

Alaska Cruise Tours:

A cruise tour is a voyage and land tour combination, with the land tour occurring before or after the voyage. Unless otherwise noted, optional services such as airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, land tour excursions, etc. are not included and are available for an additional cost.

New to Costco Travel

San Antonio

La cantera resort & spa package.

  • Waived Resort Fee
  • Daily Resort Credit

Luxury Resort

Atelier playa mujeres package.

  • All-Inclusive Resort
  • Digital Costco Shop Card

Iconic Cities

Paris and london.

  • Daily Breakfast
  • $400 London Tour Credit

Family-Friendly Resort

Loews portofino bay hotel at universal orlando promo package.

  • Universal Orlando Tickets
  • Universal Express Unlimited

Romantic Getaway

Conrad bora bora nui dinner package.

  • Daily Breakfast and Dinner
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Waterfront Hotel

Marriott marquis san diego marina package.

  • Daily $50 Resort Credit
  • Daily Buffet Breakfast for Two

tour packages from chicago

Customize your experience with a Costco Travel vacation package.

With some of the world's most popular destinations available, a quality vacation is at your fingertips. Maximize your Costco membership and enjoy the value.

Browse by Vacation Destination

tour packages from chicago

Popular Interests

Family-friendly fun.

Vacations for All Ages

Romance & Honeymoon

Getaways for Two

North America Vacations

Stay Close to Home or Get Out and Explore

Adult Escapes

Adult-Only Getaways

All-Inclusive Resorts & Cruises

Meals, Beverages and More Included

Condo Resorts

Spacious Accommodations

The Costco Traveler Blog

My kilimanjaro adventure, rome on a budget: 5 things to do for free, antigua: island of 365 beaches, explore more travel, breathless resorts & spas®.

Adults-Only, All-Inclusive Resorts

in Mexico & the Caribbean

Digital Costco Shop Card with Every Package

U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas Vacation Packages

Shopping Capital of the Caribbean

Autumn Vacation Deals

New York, Hawaii and More

Choose from Fall Vibes or Warm Getaways

We are processing your payment.

Do not refresh your browser or exit this page.

  • Travel Planning Center
  • Ticket Changes & Refunds
  • Airline Partners
  • Check-in & Security
  • Delta Sky Club®
  • Airport Maps & Locations
  • Flight Deals
  • Flight Schedules
  • Destinations
  • Onboard Experience
  • Delta Cruises
  • Delta Vacations
  • Delta Car Rentals
  • Delta Stays
  • In-Flight Wi-Fi
  • Delta Trip Protection
  • How to Earn Miles
  • How to Use Miles
  • Buy or Transfer Miles
  • Travel with Miles
  • SkyMiles Partners & Offers
  • SkyMiles Award Deals
  • SkyMiles Credit Cards
  • SkyMiles Airline Partners
  • SkyMiles Program Overview​
  • How to Get Medallion Status​
  • Benefits at Each Tier
  • News & Updates
  • Help Center
  • Travel Planning FAQs
  • Certificates & eCredits
  • Accessible Travel Services
  • Child & Infant Travel
  • Special Circumstances
  • SkyMiles Help

Chicago Vacation Packages

Explore chicago.

Hugging Lake Michigan's shoreline, this 19-mile paved pathway gives outdoor enthusiasts access to many tourist attractions throughout the city.

The La Salle Street Bridge is one of only a few bascule bridges in Chicago constructed with four bridge tender house buildings. 

Located in the heart of downtown, Millennium Park is an award-winning center for art, music, architecture and landscape design. 

  • Chicago Lakefront Trail Slide 1 of 3: Hugging Lake Michigan's shoreline, this 19-mile paved pathway gives outdoor enthusiasts access to many tourist attractions throughout the city.
  • La Salle Street Bridge Slide 2 of 3: The La Salle Street Bridge is one of only a few bascule bridges in Chicago constructed with four bridge tender house buildings. 
  • Millennium Park Slide 3 of 3: Located in the heart of downtown, Millennium Park is an award-winning center for art, music, architecture and landscape design. 

For a classic Chicago experience, take a spin on the 196-foot Ferris wheel at Navy Pier, or snap a selfie in front of Cloud Gate, also known as the Bean, a reflective steel sculpture and iconic landmark. Navy Pier extends over six city blocks, and is home to the Crystal Gardens, Chicago Children’s Museum, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, amusement rides and more.

Make time to uncover some of Chicago’s best-kept secrets at underground venues, including cozy hangouts and hidden speakeasies. And sports fans will find the Cubs, White Sox, Bulls and Bears all play home games here.

All year long there are things to do and see, from a magical winter holiday market to summer music festivals to cool fall events along the river. Chicago is also known as a city in a garden because of its sprawling parks, hidden gardens, sandy beaches and lakefront trails.

The number-one reason to visit Chicago is its great food scene. The dining options are endless, and just as good as the list is long. Chicago-style hot dogs, deep-dish pizza and the Italian beef sandwich are just a few of the amazing dishes you absolutely have to try.

Fine dining in Michelin-awarded restaurants run by star chefs feature celebrated cuisine — from Korean-American fusion to modern Midwestern fare. And this is just the beginning. After dinner, the options are endless. There are blues bars, dance clubs, outstanding performing arts theater, comedy clubs and more.

Delta Vacations flight + hotel packages include round-trip airfare aboard Delta to O’Hare International Airport (ORD) or Midway Airport (MDW). To get into the city and to your hotel — car rentals, taxis and shared vans are available, as well as bus and train options.

Looking to book a flight + car package?

National Premium Package 

In the U.S., we offer the National Premium All-Inclusive Package. All insurance, taxes and surcharges are included. You have your choice of vehicles; up to five additional drivers are included at no extra charge; and the primary driver may earn up to 500 bonus miles per rental, plus an additional 200 bonus miles per rental day, through the SkyMiles ®  Program. †

Alamo ®  Rent A Car, Enterprise ®  Rent-A-Car and National ®  Car Rental

Make the most of your vacation by exploring the U.S. with a rental car from Alamo, Enterprise or National. See the sights, take the family out to dinner, and explore all this fabulous destination has to offer with the freedom of a rental car. Plus, the primary driver may earn up to 500 bonus miles per rental and an additional 200 bonus miles per rental day, through the SkyMiles ®  Program in the U.S. and Canada. †

Check out our current, money-saving  car rental offers , opens in a new window .

†Delta SkyMiles Membership number must be provided during pick up at the rental counter. The car must be rented in Member's name to earn mileage. Only one SkyMiles Member per car rental will be credited with miles. Offer valid for rentals picked up at participating Alamo or National Car Rental locations in the United States and Canada. Please allow 6 to 8 weeks after completed qualifying rental for miles to be posted to your account. Bonus miles not available with Enterprise car rentals worldwide and not available with Alamo or National rentals in the Caribbean and Mexico.

  • Investor Relations
  • Business Travel
  • Travel Agents
  • Comment/Complaint
  • Browser Compatibility
  • Accessibility
  • Booking Information
  • Customer Commitment
  • Tarmac Delay Plan
  • Sustainability
  • Contract of Carriage
  • Cookies, Privacy & Security
  • Human Trafficking Statement (PDF)

Logo

  • International
  • Food and Drink
  • Places of Interest
  • Sustainable
  • What's new
  • Celebrating People
  • Hall of Frame
  • Responsible Tourism
  • MP on my Mind
  • MP Wellness

OT Travel Itinerary: 3 Days In Chicago

OT Travel Itinerary: 3 Days In Chicago

Chicago has undergone a remarkable transformation from its origins as a small trading post at the mouth of the Chicago River. Said to be one of the great cities of USA , Chicago is known for awe-inspiring architecture, great food , beautiful parks, vibrant theatres, and captivating lakefront views. As the birthplace of skyscrapers, Chicago offers diverse and exciting experiences for everyone. Here is a three-day itinerary for an unforgettable adventure in the 'Windy City'.

Start your day with a quick breakfast, then head to Millennium Park bright and early to beat the crowds. Located within Chicago’s Loop, Millennium Park offers the iconic Cloud Gate statue (aka “The Bean”), unveiled in 2005 and known as an iconic city symbol. The park also features interactive fountains, tranquil gardens, free events, public art, skating rinks, rock climbing, and plenty of green space, making it a must-visit destination in downtown Chicago.

OT Travel Itinerary: 3 Days In Chicago

Head to the Chicago Theatre , situated at the northern edge of the Loop. The prominent city landmark was built in the French Baroque style and originally opened in the 1920s as a grand movie palace. The theatre boasts a miniature Paris' Arc de Triomphe replica above its State Street marquee. With a seating capacity 3,600, it hosts various events such as stage plays, magic shows, comedy, and music concerts. Throughout history, renowned stars like Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, and Robin Williams have graced its stage. Designated as a historic place on June 6, 1979, the Chicago Theatre marquee is unofficially considered an emblem of the city and has appeared in numerous films, TV shows, artworks, and photographs. Visitors can admire its elegant lobby, majestic staircase, and a beautiful auditorium adorned with murals.

OT Travel Itinerary: 3 Days In Chicago

Take a leisurely stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk after a snack break. This route is easy and typically takes about 47 minutes to complete. The area is popular for running and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people. The award-winning Chicago Riverwalk is located on the south bank of the Chicago River and spans 1.25 miles from Lake Michigan to Lake Street. Along the way, you'll find cosy cafes, wineries, bars, public art, monuments, museums, and various water excursions.

OT Travel Itinerary: 3 Days In Chicago

Start your day by exploring Grant Park 's beauty. Whether you love nature, architecture, or public art, there's something for everyone. The magnificent Buckingham Fountain is at the park's centre, inspired by the ornate fountains of the Palace of Versailles in France. This grand fountain, twice the size of the original, is one of the largest in the world.

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of the natural world at the Field Museum , an esteemed Chicago institution and a world-renowned natural history museum. Explore captivating exhibits that showcase ancient cultures and the latest scientific discoveries through an incredible collection of over 24 million objects. From Egyptian mummies to the man-eating lions of Tsavo and the iconic SUE, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex ever discovered, the museum’s world-renowned items will leave you spellbound.

OT Travel Itinerary: 3 Days In Chicago

Next, prepare for an exceptional experience at Navy Pier , one of Chicago's most iconic landmarks. Here, you will discover various dining options and engaging activities. Take in the breathtaking views as you engage in people-watching, or gaze out across the vast expanse of Lake Michigan. Serving as Chicago's equivalent to some of the renowned eastern boardwalks, Navy Pier welcomes visitors free of charge throughout the year. You can also sivarious Chicago boat tours and captivating evening cruises offered at the pier.

Explore the city's iconic architecture from the prime vantage point of the river. Led by the Chicago Architecture Center's knowledgeable docent volunteers, the 90-minute Chicago Architecture River Tour unveils captivating stories behind the city's magnificent buildings in a unique and unparalleled way.

OT Travel Itinerary: 3 Days In Chicago

After the river tour, continue the marine theme. Step into Shedd Aquarium and discover a world where early 20th-century charm meets 21st-century innovation. With a collection of 32,600 sea life species, surrounded by breathtaking architecture, Shedd promises unforgettable experiences, including up-close shark feedings and captivating penguin encounters.

OT Travel Itinerary: 3 Days In Chicago

After your tryst with water, look towards the sky. Visit the Windy City's extraordinary 360 Chicago, where you can experience the most exhilarating views of Chicago and Lake Michigan. Located on the 94th floor, this one-of-a-kind observation deck offers breathtaking sights of the city. Sunset is the best time to visit, but the views in full sunlight and at night are equally captivating. Adult tickets start at $30, and it's free entry for children under 3. Keep an eye out for special offers and different admission options that may be available.

Related Stories

logo

tour packages from chicago

The Best Places For A Day Trip If You're Staying In Chicago

C hicago is the shining gem of the Midwest, a popular destination for business and leisure travelers alike. Nicknamed the Windy City because of the air currents whipping off Lake Michigan, Chicago is truly a destination for all seasons. From the blooming gardens in the spring to the summer music festivals and the vibrant fall colors to the winter getaway activities , Chicago is bustling with activities year-round.

If you have a day free while staying in Chicago, there is an embarrassment of riches to fill your itinerary. The city is home to some of the nation's finest museums, the streets are filled with art and music, and there are incomparable shopping experiences. Participate in some of Chicago's most iconic experiences, stroll through its parks, or even relax with a communal bathing experience. Chicago has it all, and your biggest regret may be that you don't have enough time to experience it all. Combining the recommendations of Choose Chicago (the city's official tourism website), the opinions of other travelers, and our own extensive experiences in the country's third-largest city, we've curated a list that combines famous and lesser-known experiences of how to spend the perfect day in the Windy City. 

Read more: The 100 Most Popular American Tourist Destinations

Absorb Art At The Art Institute Of Chicago

You can't claim to know Chicago until you've spent a day at the Art Institute of Chicago. Since its opening in 1879, the institute has become an icon of the city, frequently marked as the top thing to do in town. Originally part of the city's efforts to rebuild after the Great Fire of 1871, it moved to its current home in the heart of downtown in 1893 as part of the World's Columbian Exposition, complete with the famous lion sculptures standing guard at the entrance. Whether you prefer modern art, Renaissance classics, or Impressionist masterpieces, you can find a wing in this museum to excite your senses. The work of some of the most famous artists in the world resides in their halls, including names like Monet, Renoir, Dalí, Picasso, and Van Gogh. In recent years, the institute has made a concerted effort to expand and diversify its collections and exhibitions, including more magnificent indigenous, Black, and female art.

The museum offers multiple tours, and its website provides suggestions on how to experience the collections, whether you have an hour or a day. Some visitors to the museum even set out to recreate Ferris Bueller's famous visit in the iconic 1986 movie. There are many ways to make the most of your visit to this pride of the Windy City attraction.

Visit The Bean In Millennium Park

Millennium Park was a favorite destination for photographers long before Instagram took over the world. Home to the iconic Bean sculpture (officially known as Cloud Gate), the urban park has gardens, sculptures, an ice rink, and a packed calendar of entertainment and events. While the modern-day park began taking shape in 1998, its roots go back to 1844 when the land it was on was designated parkland. However, in 1852, the City of Chicago gave some of the land to the railroad companies, which was reclaimed in a lawsuit in 1996. Now dubbed Millennium Park, it attracts tourists from around the world and provides an escape for residents searching for ways to while away the day.

In 2006, British-Indian sculptor Anish Kapoor created Cloud Gate, the 33-foot high, 42-foot wide, 66-foot long, and 110-ton steel sculpture. It reflects the city's skyscape and is one of the world's largest permanent outdoor art installations. Elsewhere in the park, the Crown Fountain, designed by Jaume Plensa, uses water, light, and glass to create an urban playground ripe for splashing during the summer. Rather than gargoyles, the fountain is bookended with "Faces of Chicago," two 50-foot towers that project rotating portraits of 1,000 Chicago residents. Other features of the park include the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Lurie Garden, Boeing Galleries, Millennium Monument at Wrigley Square, and Harris Theater for Music and Dance. 

Experience Ancient Roman Baths

If you are searching for an oasis of serenity amid the bustle of the Windy City, head down to the renowned Aire Ancient Baths Chicago. One of only two in the U.S. (the other is in New York), this international bath house is in a restored factory in the River West downtown neighborhood. Step inside the 1902-constructed building, where exposed bricks, wooden beams, and columns evoke a bygone era before you move into the communal bathing area. The area is dimly lit with flickering candles and the quiet hum of running water from the six thermal baths, two aromatherapy steam rooms, and one indoor-outdoor pool with a waterfall. 

Outside the communal bathing area, you can indulge in experiences from a wine bath for two, a massage, or a hydration ritual using crystals and sandalwood oil. Unlike some baths in the city, bathing suits are mandatory in the communal areas, and each guest is provided with a robe in the luxurious, modern locker rooms. Pool names evoke the Roman experience with Latin monikers that describe their uses, such as the saltwater Flotarium, the hot 102 degrees Fahrenheit Caldarium, or the Balneum, a bath of a thousand jets. In one area, you can scrub yourself with salt to exfoliate before showering. Drinking water is available throughout. End your experience resting in the deep-cushioned couches of the lounge, enjoying offerings from their juice menu.

Explore Chicago's Most Famous Museums

To truly do Chicago museums justice, you need more than a day. With over 70 museums, Chicago offers visitors many varied places to learn more about anything and everything. T he best museums to visit in Chicago  cover an incredible range of interests, and here are a few to get you started. The city's oldest museum, founded in 1857, is the Chicago Academy of Sciences. In 1894, it moved to Lincoln Park, where it is now known as the Chicago Academy of Sciences/Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. The Field Museum is home to the largest dinosaur ever discovered, while the Shedd Aquarium has more than 32,000 creatures and is one of the largest aquariums in the world. When it opened in 1930, Adler Planetarium was the first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, while the Museum of Science and Industry in Hyde Park is housed in a building built for the 1893 World Expo. 

While those are the most famous museums, Chicago's streets are filled with museums targeting more narrow interests. If you want something more niche, consider the American Writers Museum, the Museum of Illusions, the International Museum of Surgical Science, the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, the Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum, the Busy Beaver Button Museum, or the Medieval Torture Museum. If you dare, of course.

Get A Bird's-Eye View Of The City

With the opening of the Sears Tower in 1973, Chicago earned bragging rights to the world's tallest building, an honor it held until 1996. No trip to Chicago is complete without a trip up its elevators to the 103rd floor (the building has 110 floors in total), where visitors take in a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city. In 2009, Willis Towers Watson took over the tower, and the newly named Willis Tower continues to attract visitors to the SkyDeck, where it is possible to see four states from the lofty platform. 

The Willis Company set about transforming the tower, including adding The Ledge, a glass box extending 4.3 feet from the Skydeck, 1,353 feet in the air. While visiting, you can participate in the SkyDeck Experience, an interactive show exploring Chicago's history with simulated views of the city's attractions. For those who want to take in the sunset, Willis Tower staff recommend arriving 35-40 minutes before sundown and buying your timed access ticket in advance. If you're not sure you can get the shot you want, professional photographers are available for hire. If you're taking kids, join in on the interactive activities, scavenger hunts, and coloring activities designed for the younger set.

Cruise Through Downtown Architecture

Chicago is an architectural playground, home to the works of famous architects through the years, including luminaries such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. It's a place where builders come to experiment, and the rest of the world shows up to admire their achievements. From skyscrapers to churches and parks to piers, each building in the city tells a story. Walking the streets, you might see an Art Deco building next to another in Moorish Revival style, where architectural styles dot the landscape representing modernism, Venetian Gothic, Italian Renaissance, and much more. 

There is so much to see that many turn to the experts to be able to take it all in. A great place to start is the Chicago Architecture Center, where the museum is enhanced with a walking, bus, L-train, or boat tour. Boat tours include those along the coast on Lake Michigan or ones meandering through the city on the Chicago River. Select the tour that best matches your interests, whether it is a general tour that catches the highlights, a tour that takes you to glass and mosaic installations all designed by Tiffany Glass Company, tours of Chicago's Golden Age (1890 through 1930), art deco skyscrapers, pub tours or the underground Pedway system. Turn to independent providers, and you can even catch a tour with Chicago's brick whisperer , who will share the story behind Chicago's most basic building block.

Laugh Yourself Silly With Improv Comedy

Live theater thrives in Chicago, whether it is the large shows in the historic establishments of the Theater District, the modern works of Steppenwolf, or the storefront theaters dotting each neighborhood. It's where actors hone their trade, creating and workshopping some of the world's most original theater. In the 1950s, a small troupe started what would become an international phenomenon -- The Second City. Now synonymous with improv, the company has since opened locations in Toronto and New York. Through the years, it has hosted touring companies and television shows and sent work to Broadway. Some of the stars who have gotten their start with The Second City include Alan Alda, Bill Murray, Gilda Radner, John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, and Chris Farley.

In Chicago, The Second City performs in seven theaters at two locations, each offering its own style of comedy, from improv musicals to movie parodies to mystery shows. You can start your day with one of their brunch shows and end it with a late-night comedy. It is also home to world-renowned classes in improv, with both a dedicated school and drop-in classes for people who want to experiment and try their hand at making audiences laugh.

Peruse The Pier

With its iconic Centennial Wheel and weekly fireworks throughout the summer, the 3,300-foot-long Navy Pier is a favorite destination for families. Jutting out on Lake Michigan, it is home to the Chicago Children's Museum, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and a historic carousel. Constructed in 1916 as a shipping and recreational facility, it has been a destination for millions, and today's pier is an authentic Chicago experience for tourists and locals alike.

Navy Pier has a mix of free and ticketed attractions, something designed to keep it accessible for all, and a way for families on a budget to enjoy a day out celebrating some of the best Chicago has to offer. Entrance to Navy Pier itself is free. Visitors are greeted by the massive Polk Brothers Fountain and Plaza Park. From there, guests can wander the sites, eat at the many restaurants, ride the multiple carnival-type attractions, get lost in a fun home maze, imbibe at a beer garden, and listen to live music. It is the launching pad for many of Chicago's water taxis, water cruises, and dinner cruises. You can even rent a room at Sable at Navy Pier and not have to leave when the sun goes down.

Stroll Through Iconic Street Art

Chicago's streets are filled with art. Some pieces are famous, such as Picasso's unnamed 50-foot tall sculpture and Chagall's "The Four Seasons," while others come and go on the sides of buildings or in temporary outdoor exhibitions. Each of Chicago's 77 community areas has its own vibe, and most have thriving art scenes, street art, graffiti, or stunning murals and sculptures. Whether it is the trendy art scene of River North  or the 20 large-scale murals of the Wabash Arts Corridor, the Windy City wants you to stop and take notice.

Loop Chicago offers a free self-guided Loop Mural Walk with three different routes wandering by some of the city's iconic artworks, while the Pilsen neighborhood is a hub of Mexican culture where the mural movement is alive and well. Head over to Bucktown to see the beloved "Greetings from Chicago" mural. New York artists Lisa Beggs and Victor Ving have achieved fame for their series of "Greetings From" murals in nearly 30 cities across the country, but Chicago came first.

Shop 'Til You Drop On The Magnificent Mile

People from all over the Midwest make pilgrimages to Chicago for day-long shopping trips, and most spend at least some time on the Magnificent Mile, a place often referred to as one of the most iconic shopping areas in the world. The Magnificent Mile is filled with everything from department stores to malls and shopping centers. There are luxury labels and locally owned brands. Children frolic at stores such as the American Girl Place and Lego while fashionistas get their groove on at Levi's, Patagonia, or ZARA. If you want to buy it, you'll probably find it on the Magnificent Mile.

The Magnificent Mile is home to Water Tower Place, a Chicago landmark that is a 758,000-square-foot shopping mall in a 74-story skyscraper. Seven floors are devoted to the mall and its more than 60 stores, while other floors house offices, condominiums, a live Broadway in Chicago theater, many restaurants, and the Ritz Carlton hotel. Travel to the eighth floor, where you can eat at Harry Caray's 7th Inning Stretch and visit the Chicago Sports Museum.

Groove To Jazz And Blues

Since the 1940s, Chicago's streets have thrummed to the sounds of jazz and blues, with some of the city's most famous musicians revolutionizing the musical landscape. Entire subgenres of blues and jazz are named for the city, like Chicago-style jazz, a thrilling stew of styles that cranks everything up to 11 with throbbing bass and quicker tempos. Meanwhile, Southern Black migrants introduced the city to the blues, a genre that evolved when it came into contact with the urban culture up north, creating an amplified sound known as Chicago Blues. The city comes to life yearly with the Blues Festival in June and the Jazz Festival in July. Both are free. Both are magnificent.

In 1947, Joe Segal opened The Jazz Showcase, and its stage has hosted major names like Dizzy Gillespie, Ira Sullivan, and Count Basie. The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge was a favorite speakeasy of Al Capone during Prohibition, and some claim he still haunts the place. Blues guitarist Buddy Guy opened Buddy Guy's Legends, which hosts well-known musicians year-round. The Grammy-award-winning singer still performs there annually, and it is a mecca for Chicago blues lovers. The oldest continuously running blues club in Lincoln Park is Kingston Mines, which was founded in 1968. It features two stages where bands alternate sets and the music plays until the early hours of the morning.

Taste The Architecture And Food Of The Far East

Chinatown is a neighborhood on the south side of Chicago where Chinese culture is lived and celebrated. According to the Encyclopedia of Chicago , nearly one-third of Chicago's Chinese residents live there, making it one of the largest concentrations of Chinese Americans in the United States. Formed around 1912 when the Chinese population moved south from The Loop, today it fills 30 blocks with more than 400 businesses and 27,000 residents. The historic neighborhood is filled with landmarks and attractions, many with distinct Chinese architecture. The Pui Tak Center is a community center with a pagoda-style entrance and an ornate roof. The Nine Dragon Wall near the entrance to Chinatown showcases nine large dragons and more than 500 smaller ones. In Chinatown Square, you can search for your zodiac sign on the statues before strolling through the Ping Tom Memorial Park on the Chicago River. It is filled with Chinese murals, dragon poles, a pavilion, and a red zigzag bridge.

Everyone will tell you to arrive in Chinatown hungry. Start your day with milk tea and breakfast pastries at one of the many bakeries. Have a dim sum lunch or visit one of the ramen noodle shops for your midday meal. For dinner, decide whether you want to indulge in pan-Asian fusion food, Szechuan hotpot, or Chinese soup dumplings. There are even late-night Hong Kong-style cafeterias.

Read the original article on Explore .

Chicago cityscape at dusk

The World Within — Choose Chicago event image 2024

Tours & Attractions

The world within: chicago’s original & best architecture interiors tour.

  • Share this post:

“Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.”  (Confucius)

Everyone does a boat tour when they visit Chicago.  But as fun as that is, it’s a very tiny sliver of what Chicago has to offer architecturally!  Let Inside Chicago Walking Tours guide you inside some of the most stunning interior spaces you’ll ever see — spaces you’d surely pass by without a second glance if you weren’t shown them by a seasoned, in-the-know tour guide.

Specializing in interior architecture tours since 2014, Inside Chicago Walking Tours has scoured the Loop and carefully selected a number of buildings worth visiting for their interior architectural details, buildings that offer tourists the opportunity to enjoy over two centuries’ worth of hidden architectural wonders lying just behind closed doors.  On these 2-hour walking tours, you’ll be amazed at the beauty beyond the façade that everyone else sees.  We access and marvel at spaces that even locals have never seen!

Chicago’s Loop, full of offices, courtrooms, retail spaces, and business, is truly an overlooked treasure in terms of its gorgeous interior spaces.  There is so much beauty there, behind that well-known exterior:  it’s a beauty that is available to you to experience!  Let Inside Chicago Walking Tours show you this “second side” of the Second City!

  • TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours; ~1.25 miles
  • TOUR COST:  $25-30/person
  • Offered most days of the week.  See our Tour Schedule for availability and to book!  Also available as a private tour option.  Contact us to arrange!
  • Starting location near the Chicago Board of Trade; exact address given upon ticket purchase.

Check out our other tours as well!  Click here to learn more!

Return to events calendar

Recurring weekly on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday until Monday November 3, 2025

bean-night

Explore hotels, flights, deals, and more

Plan your trip.

CTA Newsletter

Chicago Newsletter

Stay in the know.

visitors_guide_2024_cover

Visitors Guide

Start planning today.

Get the guide

Your Favorites

Quick access links.

NBC Chicago

From ‘Home Alone' in concert to hotel packages: How to celebrate the iconic Christmas movie

No, you can't go inside. but photos from airbnb's 2021 listing offers a peek at what it looks like, by nbc chicago staff • published november 28, 2023 • updated on november 28, 2023 at 1:52 pm.

It's one of the Chicago area's favorite Christmas traditions -- but we're not talking about Christmas tree lightings , Christkindlmarkets , holiday reservations or Santa appearances .

We're talking about the annual, sometimes DIY celebrations that surround the iconic 'Home Alone' movie house in the northern suburb of Winnetka, Illinois.

📺 24/7 Chicago news stream: Watch NBC 5 free wherever you are

The home, in the 600 block of Lincoln Avenue, isn't for sale. It's not available to rent either -- although, in 2021, it was offered for one-night bookings through Airbnb .

But that doesn't stop residents from driving by the house to snap a picture, or visiting other famous " Home Alone" filming locations across Hubbard Woods.

"We live in the area and it’s always fun to drive or walk by and reminisce," one of more than 30 reviews of the house on TripAdvisor read. "Just be courteous as it is someone’s residence and the neighborhood wants to have some semblance of normalcy."

There are Home Alone events and experiences, too.

Dec. 8, 9 and 10, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra will perform the recognizable score to the movie live. In Evanston, the Graduate Hotel offers a "King McCallister Experience," where guests can book a " Home Alone Suite " with extras from the movie.

tour packages from chicago

Suspects, vehicle sought in south suburban convenience store robbery

tour packages from chicago

‘It means everything to me:' Young girls gifted tickets to Chicago Sky game

Other Chicago and suburban hotels have offered "Home Alone" packages in the past, including the Deer Path Inn in Lake Forest, which featured robes to take home, an in-room screening of the movie, pizza and childhood snacks.

If you do plan to visit or drive by the house, remember that you cannot go on the property. Meanwhile, here's what the home looked like on the inside in 2021.

Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly Chicago Catch-Up newsletter .

This article tagged under:

tour packages from chicago

  • ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

End-of-summer Chicago bucket list

WLS logo

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The last official beach weekend of the summer is here. Keely O'Neal, with " Bucket Listers Experience " in Chicago joined ABC 7 Eyewitness News to talk about the list of the top things to do on the water before the cooler weather pattern kicks in. O'Neal mentioned a list of the top 5 End-of-Sumer activities to do and even some activities with some deep discounts.

Related Topics

Top stories.

tour packages from chicago

Why federal authorities don't respond to corner store ATM thefts

tour packages from chicago

Thieves use car to rip off security gate from store, try to steal ATM

  • 3 hours ago

tour packages from chicago

Human remains found at home of suspect in CA couple's disappearance

tour packages from chicago

Chicago Sky fall to Indiana Fever in most expensive WNBA game ever

tour packages from chicago

Witness recalls night Instagram model murdered beloved doctor

Teen boy critically injured in Hyde Park shooting

Suburban man charged with sexually assaulting 1-year-old girl

Still no class schedules at ChiArts HS 1 week into academic year

IMAGES

  1. Chicago Tour Packages,Book Chicago Holiday Packages,Chicago Travel Packages

    tour packages from chicago

  2. Chicago Tour Packages,Book Chicago Holiday Packages,Chicago Travel Packages

    tour packages from chicago

  3. Upto 40% Off

    tour packages from chicago

  4. Chicago Tour Packages,Book Chicago Holiday Packages,Chicago Travel Packages

    tour packages from chicago

  5. Chicago Tour Packages,Book Chicago Holiday Packages,Chicago Travel Packages

    tour packages from chicago

  6. Best Things to Do in Chicago

    tour packages from chicago

COMMENTS

  1. Packages in Chicago

    Chicago Tour Packages. Compare Flight + Hotel Deals from 100s of Travel Sites at Once. Compare Great Deals on Packages in Chicago. Book with Confidence on KAYAK®!

  2. Vacation Packages from Chicago

    Vacation packages from Chicago to Kingstown (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines) Vacation packages from Chicago to Vieux Fort (Saint Lucia) Vacation packages from Chicago to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo. View more. Find your dream vacation destination with American Airlines. See our vacation deals and last minute discounts from Chicago to 320+ destinations ...

  3. Chicago Bus Tours and Vacation Packages

    1-Day Chicago to Milwaukee Public Market and Milwaukee Art Museum Tour Tour code : GOL-CHI-139. Save 4%. (7) Departure City : Chicago IL. Available Days : Tue, Wed, Fri & Sat. Highlights : Discover the mechanics behind how motorcycles work and learn about the iconic history of Harley-Davidson through a gallery of bikes from 1903 to the present.

  4. Chicago Tours & Vacation Packages to New York, Washington DC, New

    2 to 4 Days Chicago Tours. Discover the Windy City in 2-4 days! Explore the architecture, taste the food, and soak in the culture of Chicago. Book your tour now and create unforgettable memories! TV & Movie fans special! Explore the hot spots in East Coast. Step in the TV and movie worlds and explore a real-life in varies famous filming spots.

  5. THE TOP 10 Chicago Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises (w/Prices)

    Then, see the skyline from a distance, and watch the skyscrapers light up, when you continue to Lake Michigan for a sunset viewing. 1 hour 30 minutes. Free Cancellation. from. $44.00. Chicago Architecture River Cruise. 13,355. Cruise down the Chicago River to see the city's famous architecture on this boat tour.

  6. Deals on Vacations from Chicago, IL

    Vacation Packages from Chicago, IL. Looking for Vacation Packages from Chicago, IL? Book now and get great deals on weekend trips, all inclusive packages and last minute getaways with Expedia.

  7. Chicago Vacation Packages 2024/2025 from $283

    1 room, 2 travelers. Bundle Chicago flight + hotel & save up to 100% off your flight with Expedia. FREE cancellation on select hotels .

  8. Chicago vacation packages from $475

    Tips for finding Chicago package deals. There are loads of types of vacations in Chicago and the cost will depend on what type of trip you're taking and for how long you'd like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $312; Family vacation $302; Romantic vacation $332; Luxury vacation $320; Budget ...

  9. THE TOP 10 Chicago Tours & Excursions

    There are hundreds of high-quality tour options in Chicago, one of the great American cities. Among previous travelers, these are some of the best-rated Chicago tours: Chicago Architecture River Cruise; Chicago: Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tour; Chicago River 90-Minute History and Architecture Tour; Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

  10. Collette: Vacations, Guided Tour Operator, Travel Packages

    Call us toll free at 800.340.5158. Collette is more than just a travel company. Collette's guided tours offer curated travel packages for unforgettable adventures. Find your perfect tour.

  11. The BEST Chicago Tours and Things to Do in 2024

    Chicago River: 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Cruise. Experience Chicago's legendary architecture from the best seat in the house: the river. Enjoy a comprehensive tour with a live fun guide as you navigate through the heart of the city covering all 3 branches of the Chicago River. Certified by GetYourGuide. From $44.00.

  12. Chicago Vacation Packages with Airfare 2024

    Chicago at a Glance. Currency: U.S. Dollar ($) Tipping Customs: Tip anywhere between 10 - 15%, unless service charge is added. Power Up: Type A or Type B plug, 120 V (the standard in the United States) Popular Drink: Jeppson's Malört. Must Eat: Chicago Hot Dog and Deep Dish Pizza.

  13. Chicago Vacations

    LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton. Costco Member Reviews. 4.6/5 (63 Reviews) Hotel Star Rating. 4.0 Star Hotel. 85 E Wacker Drive, Chicago, ILLINOIS, 60601, US. Learn More.

  14. Chicago Vacation Packages

    Book a Chicago vacation package from Southwest Vacations that includes low cost airline tickets to Chicago, hotels, rental cars, activities and attractions. ... The Hop On and Hop Off Tour by Chicago Trolley & Double Decker tour guides provide riders with an amusing and informative look at Chicago history as the tour winds through a 13 mile route.

  15. THE TOP 10 Chicago City Packages (w/Prices)

    from. $35.00. Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour. 2,501. Explore Chicago's gangster past on this mafia tour in a coach vehicle. Drive around the Windy City to see where Al Capone, The Untouchables, Hymie Weiss, and John Dillinger, among other thugs hung out. A history-savvy guide introduces you to some of the most storied locations of Chicago's ...

  16. Chicago Getaway

    Discover all the "Windy City" has to offer on this Chicago Getaway. Explore the Magnificent Mile, listen to great music at an amazing blues club, & more. ... Travel Advisor Login Login in for helpful resources, free trainings, and promotional items. ... See a rail vacation package you like, but it would be even better with an extra day at ...

  17. Chicago Tour Packages & Attraction Passes

    Adler Planetarium. Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour. Adults, $139 (value $269) Child ages 3-11, $109 (value $221) Learn more. Chicago C3 by CityPASS. Save up to 29% on admission to your choice of 3 top attractions with Chicago C3® tickets—great for a shorter stay. Enjoy ample time at each attraction with 9-day validity.

  18. 16 Best Chicago Tours for 2024, According to Reviews

    Editor's Pick: Wendella Boats - Chicago River Architecture Tour. Price: Adults from $44; kids from $20. Duration: 1.5 hours. U.S. News independently paid to send Cortney Fries, an award ...

  19. Cruises & Tours in Chicago

    A Beautiful Stage for Your Event Set sail on Windy for weddings, parties, corporate functions, reunions, church outings, tour groups, team building and more! Windy... Explore Chicago's unforgettable views with cruises & tours by land, water, or air. Experience architecture, dining, and thrill rides from Navy Pier.

  20. Chicago Vacation Packages 2024/2025 from $321

    Chicago Vacation Packages 2024/2025 from $321 | Travelocity. Looking for exceptional deals on Chicago , IL trips and vacation packages? Save when you bundle your flight and hotel. Book your trip today!

  21. Vacation Packages

    Vacation Packages | Costco Travel. For drivers under the age of 25, additional fees and/or restrictions may apply. For information and assistance in completing your reservation, please call: Package not available on dates selected. Please enter alternative dates. A cruise tour is a voyage and land tour combination, with the land tour occurring ...

  22. Chicago Things to Do, Events, Restaurants, Hotels & Vacation Planning

    Explore the official tourism website for Chicago. Find guides to attractions, events, restaurants, hotels, getting around and other vacation planning help. ... Inside Chicago Walking Tours. Aug 31. Theatre & Performing Arts Chicago Dance Month's Wave Wall. Navy Pier. Aug 31. ... Find packages in. Check in. Check out. Travelers. Find packages ...

  23. Chicago Vacation Packages & Travel Deals

    There are blues bars, dance clubs, outstanding performing arts theater, comedy clubs and more. Getting to Chicago. Delta Vacations flight + hotel packages include round-trip airfare aboard Delta to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) or Midway Airport (MDW). To get into the city and to your hotel — car rentals, taxis and shared vans are ...

  24. OT Travel Itinerary: 3 Days In Chicago

    Explore the city's iconic architecture from the prime vantage point of the river. Led by the Chicago Architecture Center's knowledgeable docent volunteers, the 90-minute Chicago Architecture River Tour unveils captivating stories behind the city's magnificent buildings in a unique and unparalleled way.

  25. The BEST Chicago Tours 2024

    The best Chicago Tours are: Chicago River: 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Cruise. Chicago: 45-Minute Family-Friendly Architecture River Cruise. Chicago: Architecture River Cruise Skip-the-Ticket Line. Chicago: 1.5-Hour Lake and River Architecture Cruise. Chicago: 90-Minute River and Lakefront Cruise at Night.

  26. The Best Places For A Day Trip If You're Staying In Chicago

    Boat tours include those along the coast on Lake Michigan or ones meandering through the city on the Chicago River. Select the tour that best matches your interests, whether it is a general tour ...

  27. The World Within: Chicago's Original & Best Architecture Interiors Tour

    Specializing in interior architecture tours since 2014, Inside Chicago Walking Tours has scoured the Loop and carefully selected a number of buildings worth visiting for their interior architectural details, buildings that offer tourists the opportunity to enjoy over two centuries' worth of hidden architectural wonders lying just behind ...

  28. Can you visit, tour the 'Home Alone' house? Where it ...

    Other Chicago and suburban hotels have offered "Home Alone" packages in the past, including the Deer Path Inn in Lake Forest, which featured robes to take home, an in-room screening of the movie ...

  29. End-of-summer Chicago bucket list

    CHICAGO (WLS) -- The last official beach weekend of the summer is here. Keely O'Neal, with "Bucket Listers Experience" in Chicago joined ABC 7 Eyewitness News to talk about the list of the top ...