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Chicago Theatre Tours
1 Review

The historic Chicago Theatre, which dates back to 1921, is a popular downtown architectural landmark. With its famous dazzling marquee, French baroque architecture, and lobby modeled on a Versailles chapel, this picturesque structure today hosts concerts and comedy shows, as well as daily tours of its spectacular interior.
The Basics
The first of the great early-20th-century movie palaces, the Chicago Theatre was designed to be as lavish as Versailles. Its landmark marquee is backed by a miniature replica of the Arc de Triomphe, the 5-story lobby is modeled on Versailles’ Royal Chapel, and the grand staircase is based on the one at the Palais Garnier, the Paris’ stunning opera house.
The theater is a popular stop on city sightseeing tours, and you can admire its exterior on any number of hop-on hop-off bus tours. To explore the theater’s impressive interior, attend a performance or take one of the venue’s daily tours, included with the Chicago Explorer Pass and Go Chicago Card.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chicago Theatre is a must-visit for history, theater, and architecture buffs.
- Check the performance calendar before you visit; many shows sell out far in advance.
- The venue offers a coat check for coats and bags, as well as backpacks, large bags, and strollers, which are not permitted inside the auditorium.
- Outside food and drinks are not allowed in the theater.
- The facility is fully accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Chicago Theatre is located on North State Street, in the Loop in downtown Chicago. It’s easily accessible by public transit, or on foot from local landmarks. By subway, take the Red Line to Lake or the Brown, Green, Pink, Orange, or Purple Line Express elevated line to Lake/State. If you’re driving, download the venue’s parking app to secure a spot in advance at a nearby garage.
When to Get There
The theater is open year-round, with a full calendar of concerts, comedy shows, and special events. If you’d like to explore the theater’s interior without attending a performance, book a 1-hour tour, offered at 12pm daily.
Other Chicago Architecture Landmarks
In the late 1800s, the Great Chicago Fire destroyed most of downtown, making way for different styles of architecture as new buildings went up. Architecture enthusiasts will swoon in Chicago and definitely want to seek out popular landmarks such as the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower, on the Magnificent Mile. Also, just across Michigan Avenue stands the Wrigley Building, with its giant clockface and two towers overlooking the Chicago River.
Address: 175 North State Street, Chicago, Illinois 60601, USA
Admission: Varies
21 Tours and Activities to Experience Chicago Theatre
Did you know?You can reserve your spot today and pay when you're ready.
Learn more
Did you know?
You can reserve your spot today and pay when you're ready.Learn more
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Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago
1166
Experience a colorful side of Chicago history with this Gangsters and Ghosts Tour. With a historian as your guide, you’ll step back to the roaring 20’s, when the Chicago Loop was a hub for bootleggers, speakeasies, and gangsters like the infamous Al Capone. Visit onetime gangster hangouts and haunted sites like the Palmer House, Congress Hotel, and Death Alley.
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From
US$ 27.00
From
US$ 27.00
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regular temperature checks for staff
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Chicago in a Day: Food, History and Architecture Combo Tour
59
An excellent choice for first-time visitors, this tour provides a comprehensive overview of the city and hits on both classic attractions and little-known sites. Beginning at the Chicago Theatre, work your way to the Chicago Pedway, an elaborate network of underground tunnels used by locals and commuters. Stroll the Chicago Riverwalk and the Magnificent Mile, then embark on a food tour to taste some of the city’s famous foods.
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From
US$ 102.30
From
US$ 102.30
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
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Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
701
Don’t spend time figuring out what to see in Chicago and how to get there—this hop-on hop-off tour provides a mapped-out itinerary of the city's top sights. With several strategically located stops, the tour allows you to explore the Windy City at your own pace. See the world-class Art Institute and landmark skyscrapers, while live commentary onboard gives you insight into the city's colorful history.
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From
US$ 26.10
From
US$ 26.10
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Go Chicago Explorer Pass with SkyDeck and 360 Chicago
197
The easiest and most affordable way to explore some of Chicago's top attractions at your own pace, the Go Chicago Explorer Pass saves you up to 45 percent on regular ticket prices. Create your own sightseeing itinerary by choosing 2, 3, 4, or 5 attractions, tours, and activities from among more than 30 top sites, including SkyDeck, 360 Chicago, the Field Museum, a shoreline sightseeing cruise, a hop-on hop-off Big Bus tour, Lincoln Park Zoo, Navy Pier, and LEGOLAND® Discovery Center.
Please note: Enjoy the extra flexibility in case your travel plans need to change: All passes are valid for two year from purchase date and only become activated with your first attraction visit. After activation your pass will be valid for 60 days and/or the remaining number of attraction choices purchased.
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From
US$ 66.00
From
US$ 66.00

Behind-the-Scenes Tour of Historic Chicago Theatre
21
Tour the historic Chicago Theater, a must-see city landmark, with a guide providing in-depth commentary. You'll get the most out of your visit by traveling with a guide and get access to some areas of the theater that the public never sees. Learn about its architecture, history, and famous performers throughout the years.
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From
US$ 18.00
From
US$ 18.00

Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food & Walking Tour
142
Stroll through downtown Chicago on this walking food tour. Visit Millennium Park, the Palmer House Hotel and other city landmarks. Taste quintessential Chicago foods such as deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, plus chocolates and pastry. All food tastings are included, and the tour covers an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km) suitable for most fitness levels.
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From
US$ 62.99
From
US$ 62.99
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Best of Chicago: History & Culture Tour with Chocolate and Popcorn
23
The Windy City is known for its spectacular architecture and eclectic food scene. Experience both on this tour through the downtown that combines sights with nibbles. Take in famous landmarks like the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, and Cloud Gate on foot and with the scenic L train or water taxi along the Chicago River. Taste popcorn and chocolate from two beloved city eateries during the tour.
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From
US$ 50.63
From
US$ 50.63
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
Learn More

Ultimate Chicago Food Tour by Bike
35
See Chicago light up at night with a 3-hour bicycle tour of the Windy City’s most iconic sights and neighborhoods. Follow your guide along a leisurely route, watch the Buckingham Fountain light show and take in evening views of Millennium Park and the Museum Campus. Pedal through downtown streets, capture unforgettable images of Chicago’s magnificent skyline then finish your tour in the heart of the city.
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From
US$ 72.99
From
US$ 72.99
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Chicago's Ultimate City Bike Tour
36
Explore Chicago’s most iconic sites on a bike tour that explores Museum Campus, parks, and monuments. Follow your guide along the waterfront as you soak up the city skyline and enjoy the breeze along the easy-going route. Circle the Buckingham Fountain while you learn the history of the city’s public art, parks and museums, and capture unforgettable images of the Windy City.
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From
US$ 49.99
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 49.99
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Chicago North Side Tour
7
Explore the North Side of Chicago on this guided sightseeing tour by coach. During this 2-hour tour, experience the bustle of the Loop, the central business district and one of the financial centers of the country. Visit State Street, an important thoroughfare in Chicago's history and the Magnificent Mile along Michigan Avenue. Learn about the history and culture of the city from your local guide; upgrade your tour to include a Chicago River cruise.
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From
US$ 34.95
From
US$ 34.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Land and River Architecture Tour of Chicago's Scenic North Side
3
Discover Chicago’s iconic architectural gems from every angle on a 3.5-hour tour of the North Side. Divided between land and water, the comprehensive tour enables you to cover a huge area of the city without getting worn out. Travel comfortably by coach or trolley to Fort Dearborn, Wrigley Building, and more. Afterwards, see the Windy City's famous skyscrapers, bridges, and historical sites on a 90-minute cruise down Chicago River.
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From
US$ 76.95
From
US$ 76.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Go Chicago All-Inclusive Pass with Skip the Line Access
23
Enjoy admission to more than 26 of Chicago's most popular attractions with the Go Chicago™ Pass. Create your own itinerary and sightsee at your own pace. Save your pass, available as your 'ticket' after purchase, on your mobile device; don't waste time redeeming vouchers. This pass offers something for all members of the family. Take a hop-on hop-off trolley tour or admire the stunning views from SkyDeck Chicago. The Go Chicago™ Pass is available in 1-, 2-, 3-, or 5-day options.
Please note: Enjoy the extra flexibility in case your travel plans need to change: All passes are valid for two year from purchase date and only become activated with your first attraction visit. After activation your pass will be valid for 30 days and/or the remaining number of attraction choices purchased.
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From
US$ 118.00
From
US$ 118.00

We Love Chicago Walking Tour
4
Downtown Chicago is filled with gems. Some famous, others known only by select locals. Many of these spots are best seen on foot as opposed to a moving vehicle. We'll take you inside several of these architectural masterpieces, to where much of Chicago's real beauty can be seen. We'll also give you time to check out famous public art by the likes of Picasso and Chagall and see the world's very first skyscrapers! All of our tours are led by experienced guide that have been giving quality tours of Chicago since 2005 and have accrued well over 500 five-star reviews. People mostly comment on how our tours are both informative and entertaining. The walk is a little under 2 miles and conducted at a comfortable pace.
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From
US$ 35.00
From
US$ 35.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Best of Chicago Tour Including a Deep-Dish Pizza
5
Tour Chicago's sights aboard a luxury coach and enjoy some Chicago-style deep-dish pizza on this 5.5-hour guided tour. Visit sites like the Hancock Tower, the Lincoln Park Conservatory and the Loop. Pass through neighborhoods such as Wrigleyville, Lincoln Park and Gold Coast. Top off your tour with a visit to one of Chicago's most popular pizza restaurants to sample the famous Chicago-style deep dish pizza.
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From
US$ 74.95
From
US$ 74.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Discovering Vintage Chicago: The Loop Walking Audio Tour by VoiceMap
1
Take a walk back in time through the history of Chicago's Loop on this app-enabled tour. After downloading the app and tour to you smartphone, you and your party will listen to author Amy Bizzarri, an author and expert in Chicago history, as she leads you through walking tour of the city. The GPS-enabled tour will trigger commentary at just the right times, and you can stop and start whenever you like for a flexible experience that lets you move at your own pace. Highlights include Daley Plaza, the Chicago Theater, Berghoff Restaurant, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
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From
US$ 5.34
From
US$ 5.34

Magnificent Mile Photo Shoot and Walking Tour
Rather than taking selfies everywhere you go or trusting a stranger to take a picture for you, leave capturing the special moments to us. You will be escorted by a local professional photographer who will guide you through your chosen route and will take pictures of your experience so you can return home with the ultimate souvenir.
Your photo tour includes:
-Your choice of a 30 minute, 1-hour, or 2-hour private tour with a professional photographer
-High-resolution edited images delivered via a private online gallery within 1-2 days
-Enjoy unlimited access to your photos and download as many as you would like with no expiration date
*not all stops may be included depending on the length of time you select.
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From
US$ 150.00
per group
From
US$ 150.00
per group
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Private Chicago Instagram Walking Tour
1
Our Chicago Walking Instagram Tour will take you to the most Instagrammable spots in Chicago all in one day. If you are looking for a little bit of culture, some amazing architecture, & a ton of great photos then this is the tour for you.
The morning will start with meeting with your friendly local guide at the meeting point. From there your tour will begin as you start your day walking throughout Chicago and exploring the most famous locations in the city.
This half-day tour will be fully packed with famous landmarks, vintage architecture, secretly located spots and much much more!
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Full schedule
10:00 AM- Meet your Guide at the Grand Subway Station
10:10 AM- Walk along Magnificent Mile
10:20 AM- Stop at Wrigley Building & admire Tribune Tower
10:50 AM- Explore Pioneer Court
11:20 AM- Explore Millennium Park & see Cloud Gate
11:55 AM- Check out an Iconic fountain
12:20 AM- Chicago Riverwalk
1:00 PM- Explore Navy Pier
2:00 PM- Get dropped off by your guide at Millennium station
…More
From
US$ 265.60
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 265.60
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Chicago Private Instagram Tour with Transportation
If you're looking for an exciting and stress-free day exploring the wonders of Chicago, then this is the tour for you. We can’t wait to show you around!
The morning will start with a private pickup from your hotel by one of our friendly, local guides. From there your tour will begin as you start your drive in one of our comfortable and spacious vehicles.
This full-day tour will be fully packed with famous landmarks, vintage architecture, secret spots and much much more!
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Full schedule
10:00 AM – Pick up from Hotel
10:15 AM – Check out Buckingham Fountain
10:45 AM – Arrive at Michigan Avenue Bridge
11:15 AM – Awe at the Chicago Cultural Center
12:15 PM – See Cloud Gate and explore Millennium park
1:00 PM – Lunch time
2:00 PM – Go to Chicago Theater
2:30 PM – See Garfield Park Conservatory
3:00 PM – Check out the Greetings from Chicago mural
3:30 PM – Snap a cool pic outside of Wrigley Field
3:45 PM – Return to hotel
4:00 PM – Arrive at hotel
…More
From
US$ 798.94
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 798.94
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Scenic Chicago North Side Tour and Chicago Style Pizza
Get a comprehensive overview of Chicago’s North Side on a 3.5-hour sightseeing tour. Home to Wrigley Field, Tribune Tower, and Chicago Water Tower, the vibrant district is not to be missed. Enjoy live narration as you travel along North Lake Shore Drive past Lincoln Park Conservatory and Zoo and much more. After the tour, receive a meal voucher for a personal pizza at the popular Exchequer Restaurant.
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From
US$ 56.95
From
US$ 56.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Scenic Chicago North Side Tour and 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Discover the sights of North Chicago on a 2-hour group walking tour. Offered in the morning and afternoon, select a start time that fits with your schedule. Follow your guide to Millennium Park, Lake Michigan, and more. Feel free to pause for photos and ask questions whenever you like. You also get free admission to the 360 Chicago Observation Deck, which you can use at anytime until 10:30pm.
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From
US$ 55.95
From
US$ 55.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Personal Travel and Vacation Photographer Tour in Chicago
Document your travels with professional, candid, photos from your trip to Chicago. Choose from a one or two-hour session in a variety of locations, Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or special occasion, capture the moments with a professional travel photographer by your side. Put the selfie stick away and work with your knowledgeable local photographer to find the perfect locations for your photos. You will be ale to access your digital gallery within five working days of the tour.
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From
US$ 319.37
per group
From
US$ 319.37
per group
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