The Ultimate Guide to the Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Chicago is a city of skyscrapers, vibrant nightlife, world-class museums, and deep-dish pizza. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. That’s where the Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off tour comes in. In this ultimate guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan and make the most of this tour.

Overview of the Tour

The Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off tour is a comprehensive sightseeing tour of the city, providing a mapped-out itinerary of Chicago’s top sights. With several strategically located stops, the tour allows you to explore the Windy City at your own pace. You’ll see the world-class Art Institute, landmark skyscrapers, and more while audio commentary onboard gives you insight into the city’s colorful history.

Top Attractions to See

The tour covers many of Chicago’s top attractions, including Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile, Grant Park, Chicago Riverwalk, Chicago Theatre, and Navy Pier. From the top deck of the open-top double-decker bus, you’ll capture unobstructed views of the city’s iconic skyline. Since the tour is hop-on hop-off, you can spend as much time as you like at each stop, exploring the attractions and taking pictures.

Ticket Types

Big Bus Chicago offers three ticket types: Classic, Premium, and Deluxe. The Classic ticket is valid for one day and includes the hop-on-hop-off bus tour with live commentary, while the Premium ticket is valid for two days and also includes a Night Tour and a guided walking tour of the city. The Deluxe ticket is valid for three days and includes all the features in the Premium ticket as well as a Chicago River and Architecture Cruise.

Onboard Audio Commentary

One of the best features of the Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off tour is the onboard audio commentary. The commentary is available in several languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Chinese, and Portuguese, and provides fascinating insights into Chicago’s history and culture. You can listen to the commentary via headphones at each seat.

Live Bus Tracking

The Big Bus Chicago app offers real-time bus tracking, allowing you to monitor the location of each bus and plan your journey accordingly. The app is free to download and available for both Android and iOS devices.

Why Choose This Tour?

Travelers choose this tour because it provides a mapped-out itinerary of the city’s top attractions with none of the logistical headaches. With multiple departure times and the flexibility to hop on and off at each stop, it’s perfect for first-time visitors to Chicago who want to see all the highlights.

Booking the Tour

Booking the Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off tour is easy. You can book it online via the Viator website, the link to which is https://www.viator.com/tours/Chicago/Big-Bus-Chicago-Hop-On-Hop-Off-Tour/d673-5096CHICAGO?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383 or via the Big Bus Tours website. It’s advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak season.

Book Your Tour Now

The Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off tour is an excellent way to explore the Windy City at your own pace, with onboard audio commentary providing interesting insights into Chicago’s history and culture. With multiple ticket types and departure times, it’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to see all the highlights. So what are you waiting for? Book the tour here and get ready to explore Chicago in style!

Frequently Asked Questions about the City of Chicago

Chicago is one of the most famous cities in the United States. Known for its towering skyscrapers, iconic sports teams, and deep-dish pizza, Chicago is a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike. In this FAQ, we will answer some of the most common questions about the city of Chicago.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Chicago?

Chicago experiences all four seasons, so the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Summer is the most popular time to visit Chicago as the weather is warm, and there are many outdoor festivals and events. Fall is also an excellent time to visit as the leaves change color and the crowds thin out. Winter is the most frigid season, but if you are willing to brave the cold, you can enjoy ice skating in Millennium Park or shopping along Michigan Avenue. Spring is the season of renewal, and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and warmer weather.

2. What are some must-see attractions in Chicago?

Chicago is home to several iconic attractions, including:

• Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower)

Standing 1,450 feet tall, the Willis Tower is the tallest building in Chicago and the second-tallest in the United States. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

• Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It features a Ferris wheel, an IMAX theater, a children’s museum, and plenty of restaurants and shops.

• The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States. It is home to famous works such as Grant Wood’s American Gothic and Georges Seurat’s A Sunday on La Grande Jatte.

• Millennium Park

Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Millennium Park is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as “The Bean”) and the Crown Fountain.

3. What are some popular foods in Chicago?

Chicago is known for its unique cuisine, and no visit to the city is complete without trying some of the local dishes, including:

• Chicago-style pizza

Chicago-style pizza is a deep-dish pizza that is baked in a deep pan and stuffed with cheese, meat, and vegetables.

• Italian beef sandwiches

Italian beef sandwiches are a Chicago staple made with thinly-sliced roast beef, gravy, and pepperoncini peppers, served on a hoagie roll.

• Chicago-style hot dogs

Chicago-style hot dogs are made with an all-beef hot dog, yellow mustard, chopped onions, sweet relish, tomato slices, a pickle spear, and celery salt, all served on a poppy seed bun.

4. What sports teams are in Chicago?

Chicago is home to several professional sports teams, including:

• Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs are a Major League Baseball team that plays at Wrigley Field on the city’s north side.

• Chicago White Sox

The Chicago White Sox are also a Major League Baseball team that plays at Guaranteed Rate Field on the city’s south side.

• Chicago Bulls

The Chicago Bulls are a professional basketball team that plays at the United Center.

• Chicago Blackhawks

The Chicago Blackhawks are a professional ice hockey team that also plays at the United Center.

5. What transportation options are available in Chicago?

Chicago has a comprehensive public transportation system that includes trains, buses, and taxis. The “L” train system is the most popular way to get around the city, with several lines running throughout downtown and the surrounding areas. Additionally, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are prevalent in Chicago. If you prefer to walk, many of the city’s most popular attractions are located within walking distance of each other.

6. What are some free things to do in Chicago?

If you’re on a budget, there are several free activities to enjoy in Chicago, including:

• Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo is a free zoo located in the heart of Lincoln Park. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears.

• The Museum of Contemporary Photography

The Museum of Contemporary Photography is a free art museum located in downtown Chicago. It features rotating exhibitions of contemporary photography.

• The Chicago Cultural Center

The Chicago Cultural Center is a free cultural institution located in the Loop neighborhood. The center features art exhibitions, performances, and events.

• Grant Park

Grant Park is a massive park located in the heart of downtown Chicago. It is home to several iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Fountain and the Petrillo Music Shell. In conclusion, Chicago is a fantastic city with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in architecture, sports, or food, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in this beautiful city. We hope this FAQ has been helpful in planning your trip to Chicago.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Chicago

Chicago, also known as the Windy City, is a popular tourist destination in the United States that promises an unforgettable experience to anyone who visits. There are plenty of things to do in Chicago, whether you are a first-time tourist or a frequent visitor. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Chicago, with some tips and recommendations to make the most out of your trip.

Step 1: Explore the city on foot

Chicago is a lively city, full of culture and history, and exploring it on foot is the best way to discover its hidden gems. The city has a well-connected network of sidewalks and a flat terrain, making it easy for tourists to explore on foot. Start your tour with the famous Magnificent Mile, a beautiful street that is home to high-end shops, restaurants, and museums. From there, walk towards the Navy Pier, Chicago’s top tourist attraction, where you can enjoy amazing views of Lake Michigan, ride the famous Ferris wheel, and take a boat tour to explore the city’s skyline.

Step 2: Visit museums and art galleries

Chicago is known for its rich cultural heritage and boasts some of the best museums and art galleries in the world. The Art Institute of Chicago, located in Grant Park, is a must-visit destination for art lovers, with over 300,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. The Museum of Science and Industry is another popular attraction that showcases interactive exhibits on science, technology, and innovation. Other popular museums include the Field Museum of Natural History, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium.

Step 3: Enjoy the culinary delights

Chicago is a food lover’s paradise, and no trip to the city is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. The city is famous for its deep-dish pizza, which is a must-try for anyone visiting for the first time. For a more upscale dining experience, visit restaurants like Alinea, which has been awarded three Michelin stars, or Girl and the Goat, which is known for its innovative cuisine. If you’re looking for something more casual, check out the city’s food trucks, which serve a variety of ethnic cuisines.

Step 4: Shop till you drop

Chicago is a shopper’s paradise, with some of the best shopping destinations in the world. The Magnificent Mile is the city’s top shopping district, with a variety of high-end shops, boutiques, and department stores. If you’re looking for something more unique, head to the Lincoln Park neighborhood, which has a variety of vintage and specialty stores. The Wicker Park neighborhood is another popular shopping destination, with independent boutiques and locally-owned shops.

Step 5: Relax in the city’s parks

Chicago is home to several beautiful parks that offer a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Grant Park, located in the heart of the city, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with its iconic Buckingham Fountain, stunning gardens, and world-class events such as the Taste of Chicago. Millennium Park, located adjacent to Grant Park, is another popular park that features the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as the Bean.

Step 6: Experience the city’s nightlife

Chicago is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and lounges that cater to every taste. The city’s music scene is also noteworthy, with live music venues that showcase local and international talent. Some of the popular nightlife destinations include The Second City, a comedy club that has launched the careers of several famous comedians, The Green Mill, which is known for its jazz music, and The Signature Room, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city. In conclusion, Chicago is a city that offers something for everyone, and following these steps will ensure that you have a fulfilling and memorable experience while exploring the city. Remember, pace yourself and take the time to enjoy everything that Chicago has to offer.