Top Chicago Hop on Hop Off Buses

There are plenty of high-quality hop-on hop-off bus tours in Chicago to choose from. Looking at ratings and reviews given by previous customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Big Bus Chicago: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour, 24/48/72hr Pass

• Chicago River Architecture Tour and Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Hop-on hop-off bus prices in Chicago vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you're looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now:

• Big Bus Chicago: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Bus

• Chicago River Boat Tour & Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour (Save 20%)

Yes, hop-on hop-off buses in Chicago are worth it. The open-top double-deckers provide unobstructed views of landmarks such as Willis Tower (Sears Tower) and Millennium Park. Plus, the flexibility to hop on and off whenever you like means you can explore attractions like Navy Pier or The Art Institute at your own pace. With some tours offering combo options that also include a river cruise, you'll get to see the city from every angle.

Per one customer who booked the Big Bus Chicago: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour, 24/48/72hr Pass, "Our driver, Candace, was great. She narrated and was funny and so friendly and knowledgeable. Easy way to see the city without the hassle of trying to drive and navigate and find parking etc."

Before booking your hop-on hop-off bus tour, decide how many days you want your ticket to be valid for—options typically range from 24 to 72 hours, so choose an option that works for you and the length of your stay in Chicago. Consider combo packages that include river cruises for added value, and download the tour company's app in advance for real-time bus tracking and route maps. If you want to pack in a lot of sights, be sure to hop on your first bus early in the day.

To make the most of your Chicago hop-on hop-off bus experience, dress for the weather. In the summer, bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for the open-top deck. Chicago's nickname as the "Windy City" is no joke, especially when you're cruising down Michigan Avenue, so bring layers and a hat that can’t fly off. Sit on the right side of the bus when heading north for the best views of Lake Michigan and the Magnificent Mile. Finally, although it might be tempting to visit every stop, if you have particular attractions that interest you, it’s best to prioritize and spend quality time at a few of them.