The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Chicago with Chicago Explorer Pass

Chicago, the Windy City, is a hub of culture, architecture, and entertainment that’s visited by millions of tourists every year. It’s home to some of the most iconic attractions in the United States, including the SkyDeck at Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower), the Field Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo, and Navy Pier, among others. If you’re planning a trip to Chicago and want to explore multiple attractions, you might want to consider getting a Chicago Explorer Pass. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about Chicago Explorer Pass, from what it is, how it works, what attractions are included, and how to get the most out of it.

What is Chicago Explorer Pass?

Chicago Explorer Pass is a multi-attraction pass that allows you to choose 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 attractions, tours, and activities from a list of more than 25 top sites in Chicago. The pass saves you up to 40 percent off compared to buying individual attraction tickets. With Chicago Explorer Pass, you can create your own sightseeing itinerary and explore the city at your own pace.

How does Chicago Explorer Pass work?

Chicago Explorer Pass is easy to use. Here’s how it works:

1. Choose the number of attractions you want to visit.
2. Purchase your pass online.
3. Download the pass to your mobile device, or print it out.
4. Show your pass at the entrance of each attraction.
5. Enter the attraction without paying for tickets.

Please note that your pass is valid for two years from the purchase date and only becomes 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.

What attractions are included in Chicago Explorer Pass?

Chicago Explorer Pass includes some of the most popular attractions in Chicago. Here are some of the attractions that you can choose from:

• SkyDeck Chicago
• 360 Chicago
• The Field Museum
• Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour
• Shoreline Sightseeing Classic Lake Tour
• The Art Institute of Chicago
• Museum of Science and Industry
• Adler Planetarium
• LEGOLAND® Discovery Center
• Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise
• Big Bus Chicago: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
• Brookfield Zoo
• Lincoln Park Zoo
• Navy Pier Centennial Wheel and Rides
• Chicago Children’s Museum
• And many more!

Please note that some attractions have restricted hours or days of operation, so be sure to check the details before planning your itinerary.

How to get the most out of your Chicago Explorer Pass?

To get the most out of your Chicago Explorer Pass, we recommend:

1. Planning your itinerary in advance: Check the opening hours, days of operation, and location of each attraction. Schedule your visit according to the location to save time and transportation costs.
2. Choosing the right number of attractions: Choose the number of attractions that you can realistically visit during your trip. Don’t overload your itinerary as this can lead to exhaustion and disappointment.
3. Visiting the popular attractions early or late in the day: To avoid crowds and long queues, visit the popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
4. Using the hop-on-hop-off bus tour: The Big Bus Chicago tour is an excellent way to see the city and get to the attractions quickly. Use it to get around the city and save time and money on transportation.
5. Exploring the off-the-beaten-path attractions: Chicago has some hidden gems that are not on most tourists’ radar. Use your Chicago Explorer Pass to explore these attractions and discover the city’s lesser-known treasures.

How to get Chicago Explorer Pass?

You can purchase Chicago Explorer Pass online from Viator, a TripAdvisor company, by following this link: book the tour here. Choose the number of attractions you want to visit, add to cart, and proceed to checkout. You will receive an email confirmation with your pass and instructions on how to use it.

Book Your Tour Now

Chicago Explorer Pass is an excellent option for those who want to see multiple attractions in Chicago and save money. With the pass, you can create your own itinerary and explore the city’s top sites at your own pace. Follow our tips to get the most out of your pass, and don’t forget to book your pass online to get the best deals.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago

Chicago is often referred to as the “Windy City” due to its location on Lake Michigan. It is the third-largest city in the United States after New York City and Los Angeles. There is so much to explore in Chicago, from its famous architecture to its deep-dish pizza. Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicago.

1. What are some popular things to do in Chicago?

Chicago has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, art, or cuisine. Some popular things to do in Chicago include:

• Visit the Willis Tower Skydeck for breathtaking views of the city
• Take an architecture tour to learn about Chicago’s famous buildings
• Explore the Art Institute of Chicago, which houses over 300,000 works of art
• See a show at the iconic Chicago Theatre or Second City comedy club
• Visit Navy Pier for an amusement park, boat rides, and more
• Enjoy some deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s or Lou Malnati’s

2. What is the best time to visit Chicago?

The best time to visit Chicago is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The summer months (June-August) can be very hot and humid, and the winter months (December-February) can be extremely cold and snowy.

3. How do I get around in Chicago?

Chicago has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trains (known as the “L” system). The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates these systems, and you can purchase fares at stations or via mobile app. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in the city.

4. What are some famous landmarks in Chicago?

Chicago is known for its architecture and many famous landmarks, some of which include:

• The Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower)
• The John Hancock Center
• The Chicago Water Tower and Pumping Station
• The Wrigley Building
• Millennium Park, home to the famous “Bean” sculpture

5. What is the food like in Chicago?

Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, but there’s much more to the city’s cuisine than that. Some other popular foods in Chicago include Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago-style hot dogs, and Garrett’s popcorn. There are also many high-end restaurants and eateries in the city serving a variety of cuisine types.

6. What are some family-friendly activities in Chicago?

There are plenty of activities in Chicago that are perfect for families with children. Some family-friendly activities include:

• Visiting the Shedd Aquarium to see thousands of marine creatures
• Going to Lincoln Park Zoo to see over 1,000 animals from around the world
• Exploring the Museum of Science and Industry, which has interactive exhibits on science and technology
• Going to the Children’s Museum at Navy Pier for educational and fun exhibits
• Watching a performance at the Blue Man Group

7. What is the nightlife like in Chicago?

Chicago has a vibrant nightlife scene, with options for every taste. Some popular nightlife areas include River North, Wicker Park, and Logan Square. You’ll find everything from craft cocktail bars to dance clubs to live music venues.

8. What should I know about Chicago’s weather?

Chicago experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall can be mild and enjoyable. It’s essential to check the weather before you visit and pack accordingly.

9. What are some popular museums in Chicago?

Chicago has many world-class museums that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular museums include:

• The Art Institute of Chicago
• The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
• The Field Museum of Natural History
• The Museum of Science and Industry
• The Chicago History Museum

10. Can I take a day trip from Chicago?

Yes, there are many day trip options from Chicago, including:

• Visiting the Indiana Sand Dunes National Park
• Going to the Frank Lloyd Wright home and studio in Oak Park
• Visiting the city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Going to the Valparaiso farmer’s market in Indiana
• Exploring the Galena Historic District in Illinois

Book Your Tour Now

Chicago is a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer every visitor. Whether you’re interested in history, art, cuisine, or nightlife, you won’t be disappointed. Plan your trip today and experience all that Chicago has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Chicago

Chicago is one of the most famous cities in the United States, and for good reason. The city is home to some of the country’s most recognizable landmarks, including the Willis (formerly Sears) Tower and Navy Pier. With its rich history, delicious food, and beautiful architecture, there are plenty of things to do and see in the Windy City. If you’re planning on visiting Chicago, here’s how to spend your time as a tourist:

1. Take a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

One of the best ways to see all of Chicago’s major landmarks is by taking a hop-on hop-off bus tour. These tours typically last around two hours and take you to popular sites like Millennium Park, Magnificent Mile, and the Chicago Riverwalk. You can get on and off the bus at your leisure, making it a great option for those who want to see as much of the city as possible without walking too much.

2. Visit the Willis Tower Skydeck

The Willis Tower Skydeck is one of Chicago’s most popular tourist attractions, and for good reason. The Skydeck is located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, which is the second-tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. From the Skydeck, you can see breathtaking views of the city and even step out onto a glass ledge that extends four feet out from the building.

3. Explore the Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country. The museum is home to more than 300,000 works of art, including famous pieces like Grant Wood’s “American Gothic” and Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte.” The museum also has a beautiful garden that’s perfect for strolling through on a nice day.

4. Walk Along Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a popular tourist destination that’s perfect for families. The pier features an amusement park, IMAX theater, and plenty of restaurants and shops. You can also take a boat tour or walk along the pier and enjoy views of Lake Michigan.

5. Go to a Cubs or White Sox Game

Chicago is home to two Major League Baseball teams: the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox. Both teams have iconic stadiums that are worth visiting, even if you’re not a big baseball fan. Wrigley Field, the Cubs’ ballpark, is located in the heart of the city and is known for its ivy-covered walls and historic scoreboard.

6. Take a Architecture River Cruise

Chicago is known for its beautiful architecture, and one of the best ways to see it is by taking an architecture river cruise. These tours take you down the Chicago River and give you a unique perspective on the city’s buildings and skyline. You can also learn about the history and design of some of Chicago’s most famous buildings.

7. Enjoy Deep Dish Pizza

No trip to Chicago is complete without trying the city’s famous deep dish pizza. There are plenty of pizza places to choose from, but some of the most popular include Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, and Gino’s East. Just be prepared for a long wait, as these places can get very busy.

8. Visit the Field Museum of Natural History

The Field Museum of Natural History is another popular museum in Chicago. The museum has a large collection of fossils, including Sue, the world’s largest and most complete T-rex skeleton. The museum also has exhibits on ancient civilizations, including Egypt and China.

9. See a Show at the Chicago Theatre

The Chicago Theatre is a historic venue that’s worth visiting, even if you don’t see a show. The theater opened in 1921 and has hosted many famous performers over the years, including Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. The marquee outside the theater is iconic and makes for a great photo op.

10. Shop on the Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is a stretch of Michigan Avenue that’s known for its high-end shops and restaurants. You can find everything from luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel to more affordable options like H&M and Zara. The Magnificent Mile is also home to the historic Water Tower, which is one of the few buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. In conclusion, Chicago is a great city with plenty to offer tourists. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or just want to try some deep dish pizza, there’s something for everyone in the Windy City. These ten activities are just a small sampling of what Chicago has to offer, so be sure to explore the city and discover your own favorites.