Welcome to Chicago: Private Half-Day Tour with 360 Observation Deck (2024)

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Home > North America > USA > Illinois > Chicago > Welcome to Chicago: Private Half-Day Tour with 360 Observation Deck

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What You Will Do

Located in America’s Midwest along the Great Lakes shoreline, Chicago - known colloquially as the Windy City - occupies America’s third-largest metropolitan area: a huge, vibrant expanse packed with incredible history and architecture and fine public art. Discover the compelling character of America’s third-largest city, renowned for its jazz-and-blues heritage, striking architecture, historic streets and a fine array of public art.

On your private half-day tour, you will:

  • Meet your guide at the Crown Fountain that although is off during the winter months, it showcases an interactive work of art which projects video images of Chicago citizens;
  • Explore Millennium Park a gathering green space in the heart of the city that has won awards for its accessibility and design;
  • See the Chicago Athletic Association hotel, an 1893 architectural icon on historic Michigan Avenue;
  • Discover the Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as ‘The Bean’, reflecting the city's famous skyline in the centre of Millenium Park;
  • Walk into the Loop community area and spot The Picasso, an unnamed sculpture by the famous artist Pablo Picasso in Daley Plaza;
  • Walk across DuSable Bridge over the Chicago River, an iconic movable bridge with two levels of vehicular and pedestrian traffic;
  • Visit The Chicago Roastery - Starbucks Reserve, a 5-story building dedicated to the art and craft of coffee;
  • Take a stroll down the Magnificent Mile, a vibrant area for shopping and dining;
  • See the Medinah Athletic Club, now the InterContinental hotel, built in 1929 and born as a luxury men’s club;
  • Pass by the Chicago Water Tower, the current home of Chicago's tourism office and one of the few surviving buildings to the Great Chicago Fire;
  • End your tour with fascinating views of Chicago’s skyline from atop the Hanco*ck Tower Observation Deck.

When it was founded in 1837, Chicago’s early buildings were clustered around the mouth of the Chicago River. On your Private Chicago Half Day Highlights tour, explore the city famed for its bold architecture, past and present, incredible museums, and innovations in a wide variety of fields, from natural history and buildings to food and science.

On your Private Chicago Half Day Highlights tour, visit all the city’s major sites, including favourites such as the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park and Hanco*ck Tower. Your guide is a local who has plenty of tales about Chicago life together with an in-depth knowledge of its character.

As you journey down the Magnificent Mile, you will learn how Chicago has earned each of its nicknames, including the City of Broad Shoulders, the Second City, and of course, the Windy City. Lastly, your guide will escort you to the Hanco*ck Tower to bid on your adieus.

You will then travel to the top of the Hanco*ck Tower’s Observation Deck, where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the entire city at your own leisure.

Itinerary

Navy Pier

Duration:

In its century of history, Navy Pier has served many functions - from being a training and trading center for the military, and a prison for draft dodgers to its current iteration as a gathering place for family fun.

The Magnificent Mile

Duration:

Michigan Avenue, commonly called the Magnificent Mile, is the heart of Chicago's commercial district and brings shoppers from around the world.

Millennium Park

Duration:

Well-known for 'The Bean', Millennium Park is a gathering place for Chicagoans - especially on warm summer nights, when live music and sport overtake the green spaces.

Chicago-style deep dish pizza

Duration:

No trip to Chicago is complete without trying their world-famous deep-dish pizza. Decide for yourself if you prefer the oozy, saucy Chicago-style, or the NYC thin slice.

Hanco*ck Tower Observation Deck

Duration:

Visiting 94 floors above the city is a great way to get a bird's eye view of the windy city.

Cloud Gate

Duration:

Also known as “the Bean” and one of the main attractions in Chicago, this shiny exterior reflects the people moving around the Millenium park, the lights of Michigan Ave., and the surrounding skyline.

Important Information

This activity is operated by Travel Curious

Included

  • A friendly, professional English-speaking tour guide for your own private group
  • Plenty of time to take photos of your favourite places
  • Hanco*ck Tower Observation Deck admission tickets

Not Included

  • Hotel pick up and drop off
  • Food and drinks
  • Gratuities

Additional Information

  • Weather notes: Force Majeure Disclaimer: In the event of unforeseen circ*mstances such as extreme weather (heavy snow), natural disasters, riots, strikes, etc. and the tour cannot operate as published, we will endeavour to reschedule your tour date/time or we will provide a full refund.
  • Know before you go: - If you are booking this tour in winter, please note this is a walking tour so dress appropriately. If you wish to take a taxi at any point on the tour, it will be out of pocket and not included in your tour price.- The tour ends in the queue for the 360 Observation Deck at the Hanco*ck Tower. There might be longer waiting times due to the limited space in the elevators.
  • Accesibility: If you have mobility impairments or require any assistance, please let us know in advance so we can plan your tour accordingly to ensure a great experience.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 30 days before tour start. 35% cancellation fee applies if cancelled between 30 and 4 days before tour start. Non refundable if cancelled within 4 days of tour start.
Welcome to Chicago: Private Half-Day Tour with 360 Observation Deck (2024)

FAQs

How long does it take to do 360 Chicago observation deck? ›

You are welcome to stay as long as you like! Most guests spend about 45 minutes to an hour on the 94th floor.

How many states can you see from 360 Chicago? ›

As soon as you step off the elevator onto the 94th Floor, the magnificent 360° Skyline and the vast expanse of Lake Michigan will take your breath away. On a clear day, enjoy sweeping views that extend beyond state borders, allowing you to see four states, including Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan.

How to be a tour guide in Chicago? ›

Live in or near Chicago and actively work as a tour guide. Be able to prove he/she has one year of guiding experience. This may be done by presenting one year old pay stubs or a letter from a CTPA member company on their letterhead attesting to more than one year of experience. Have paid CTPA dues for the current year.

Is Chicago 360 worth it? ›

The Observatory at the John Hanco*ck Building, now known as 360 Chicago, offers some unbeatable views of the city, Lake Michigan, and the vistas beyond. The $18 general admission tickets are a little expensive, not prohibitive. But the add-ons can drain your wallet fast.

Is there a dress code for 360 Chicago? ›

Stay here with your drink or snack or explore the Observation Deck. No reservations needed, no dress code, no drink minimum. “The panoramic views are simply stunning, accompanied by delicious co*cktails and a vibrant atmosphere.”

Which one is better, Skydeck or 360 CHICAGO? ›

Skydeck's observatory is higher at 1,353 feet (412 meters) while 360 CHICAGO is at 1,030 feet (314 meters). Many believe that 360 CHICAGO offers superior views over Lake Michigan and the city of Chicago. Adult admission to 360 CHICAGO starts at $30 whereas Skydeck starts at $32.

What is the best time to visit Chicago 360? ›

As one of the most popular attractions in Chicago, 360 Chicago gets pretty busy. Arrive before 10am for your best chance to beat the crowds and go straight to top. Check the weather beforehand so you can visit 360 Chicago on a clear day—you might even see the four neighboring states beyond the vast city.

Can you bring a backpack to 360 CHICAGO? ›

Backpacks are allowed, but they will be searched by security.

What is the main tourist street in Chicago? ›

Michigan Avenue is a major thoroughfare that runs north-south through downtown Chicago. Along North Michigan Avenue – between Oak Street and the Chicago River – lies the Magnificent Mile. This 13-block stretch is home to more than 450 retailers and is one of the world's most iconic shopping districts.

What is the difference between the loop and downtown Chicago? ›

The Loop is bounded by Lake Street (north), Wabash Avenue (east), Van Buren Street (south), and Wells Street (west). The term Loop is now sometimes used to refer to downtown Chicago generally, particularly the area enclosed by the Chicago River, Michigan Avenue, and Congress Parkway.

How long should I plan for Skydeck Chicago? ›

Your stay at the top can easily be done in 2 hours, but your total time will depend on the wait in line. Go late and lines are much shorter. And avoid spring break!

Which is better, 360 Chicago or Skydeck? ›

Skydeck's observatory is higher at 1,353 feet (412 meters) while 360 CHICAGO is at 1,030 feet (314 meters). Many believe that 360 CHICAGO offers superior views over Lake Michigan and the city of Chicago. Adult admission to 360 CHICAGO starts at $30 whereas Skydeck starts at $32.

How much time required for SkyPark observation deck? ›

Recommended Duration: We recommend spending 45 minutes - 1 hour at the SkyPark Observation Deck and relax, take in the views, and grab a drink from the rooftop bar.

What is the best time to visit 360 Chicago? ›

As one of the most popular attractions in Chicago, 360 Chicago gets pretty busy. Arrive before 10am for your best chance to beat the crowds and go straight to top. Check the weather beforehand so you can visit 360 Chicago on a clear day—you might even see the four neighboring states beyond the vast city.

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