Chicago Theatre Tours and Tickets

Q: How much does it cost to visit the Chicago Theatre in 2026?

How much it costs to visit the Chicago Theatre depends on what you want to do there. Hour-long public tours—which run on Friday afternoons—cost US$20 for adults and US$15 for kids (12 and under), students, and seniors (over-65s). Concerts, plays, stand-up comedy, and other shows vary in price depending on time and seating type, but typically range from US$50 to US$300.

Q: What is Chicago Theatre known for?

Built in 1921, this downtown institution has been a fixture on Chicago’s entertainment scene for over a century. It’s as famous for its iconic facade and illuminated “Chicago” marquee as it is for the performances on the theater stage, from comedy acts and concerts to Broadway productions.

Q: Is there a dress code for seeing a show at Chicago Theatre?

No, there’s no specific dress code. That said, people tend to dress according to whichever show they see. Jazz shows might draw a more formally attired crowd, while comedy troupes or rock concerts tend to bring out the jeans and sneakers. How you dress is up to you.

Q: Can you take photos inside the Chicago Theatre?

Yes, photography is typically encouraged during guided tours, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap photos. However, during live events, photography policies might vary depending on who is performing (plays, for example, often restrict photography, while taking pictures is generally allowed during concerts). But don’t worry: They’ll let you know.

Q: Is Chicago Theatre good for kids?

That depends. While kids may enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the historic venue (and the chance to peek backstage), the programming caters to adults, from rowdy comedy acts and celebrity stand-up performances to DJ sets. That said, there are often seasonal kid-friendly shows, especially around Christmas.

Q: What is the best month to visit the Chicago Theatre?

The holiday season is a great time to catch a holiday-themed performance and enjoy the festive atmosphere around Chicago’s downtown area—if you can brave the city’s infamous winter chill. Otherwise, try to come in spring or fall, when Chicago enjoys milder weather, and Chicago Theatre has a packed events roster.

Q: What are the best attractions in Chicago other than the Chicago Theatre?

There are tons of fun things to do when you're done visiting the Chicago Theatre. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in Chicago:<ul><li><a href="/Chicago-attractions/Chicago-Riverwalk/d673-a20620" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Chicago Riverwalk</a></li><li><a href="/Chicago-attractions/Skydeck-Chicago-at-Willis-Tower/d673-a1215" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower</a></li><li><a href="/Chicago-attractions/The-Magnificent-Mile/d673-a3871" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">The Magnificent Mile</a></li><li><a href="/Chicago-attractions/Chicago-River/d673-a1219" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Chicago River</a></li><li><a href="/Chicago-attractions/Navy-Pier/d673-a1214" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Navy Pier</a></li></ul>View Viator's guide to <a href="/Chicago/d673" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">all the best attractions in Chicago</a>.

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Enjoy the opportunity to go behind-the-scenes at one of the Windy City's most storied venues on this insider tour of the Chicago Theater. Let your guide lead the way, as you hear about the theater's architecture, history, and famous performers throughout the years. Stand on the famed stage and take in the atmosphere, and see artist signatures from notable performers, including Frank Sinatra and Dolly Parton. A great activity for fans of music and live performance.

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The Chicago Theatre Tour Experience

1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes

4.0

(57)

from $32

Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tour

We are the original, top-rated Gangsters and Ghosts tour! Hear the tales of the ghosts, and gangsters, that haunt the city. Explore the Chicago South Loop district with your historian guide, uncovering the many mysteries hidden behind every turn. Walk through Chicago's notorious South Loop, known as a vice district during the 1920s and 30s. Stroll through this now upmarket area of the city which was once home to underground speakeasies, secret tunnels, and bootleggers. Hear the true stories of Chicago's bloody past and the gangsters who caused havoc in the city. See the places notorious figures such as Al Capone used to party, make deals, and carry out "business". Discover the legends of the ghosts that are said to lure along the Chicago Riverwalk and the aptly named Death Alley. Stop at haunted locations including Palmer House, and the Chicago Theatre, before finishing outside the Congress Hotel, one of the most haunted places in Illinois.

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Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(151)

from $38

Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

Eat your way through downtown Chicago on a walking food tour. Visit Millennium Park, the Palmer House Hotel, and other city landmarks and taste quintessential Chicago foods such as deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and chocolate brownies. All food tastings are included, and the tour covers an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km) suitable for most fitness levels. A bike or kayak rental is also included in the tour cost.

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Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(2,275)

from $85

Walkin' with Colin: Chicago History-Mystery-Comedy-Tragedy Tour

This walking tour is a feast for the eyes, combining art, architecture, and history as you navigate through bustling downtown Chicago. In a small group, you’ll marvel at skyscrapers and mosaic murals as you discover stories and secrets about the city’s past. See the stunning interiors and exteriors of noteworthy buildings and leave with a comprehensive understanding of the city’s downtown.

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Walkin' with Colin: Chicago History-Mystery-Comedy-Tragedy Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(244)

from $44

Chicago in a Day Walking Tour: Food, History & Architecture

Experience Chicago like a true insider on this top-rated walking tour that blends the city’s most iconic food, awe-inspiring architecture, and rich history — all in one unforgettable day. From deep-dish pizza to legendary skyscrapers, you’ll taste, see, and learn what makes the Windy City a world-class destination. Led by expert local guides and limited to just 12 guests, this immersive, small-group tour is the perfect way to discover the real Chicago — not just the tourist spots.

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Chicago in a Day Walking Tour: Food, History & Architecture

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.9

(1,359)

from $101

Price varies by group size

Chicago Sunset Tour by Open-Top Bus with Live Guide

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.2

(191)

from $39

Chicago Loop Self-Guided Audio Tour: Architecture & History Walk

Discover the vibrant essence of Chicago with a self-guided tour through the Loop, the city’s historic downtown. This journey unveils a blend of striking skyscrapers and hidden architectural gems, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Uncover the rich history from the Great Fire of 1871 to the architectural masterpieces that define the skyline. Stroll past renowned theaters, museums, and captivating public art pieces that contribute to the city’s creative spirit. The Loop offers a unique perspective on Chicago's past and present, whether it's your first visit or a familiar stroll. — Self-guided exploration of Chicago’s historic Loop area — Learn about the city’s architectural innovations and history — Visit iconic landmarks like the Art Institute and Millennium Park — Perfect for first-time visitors or seasoned Chicagoans alike

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Chicago Loop Self-Guided Audio Tour: Architecture & History Walk

2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(5)

from $10

Chicago City Private Tours

2 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(38)

from $199

Per group

Chicago Hop On Hop Off Open Top Bus Tour

See Chicago your way with flexible hop-on hop-off tickets designed to suit every sightseeing style. Explore the Windy City at your own pace, hopping off to visit top attractions such as Millennium Park, Navy Pier, the Magnificent Mile, and the Chicago Riverwalk while enjoying onboard commentary that adds context to what you see. Perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time, this tour offers flexibility and ensures you don’t miss any of Chicago’s highlights. You can also upgrade your experience to enjoy extra sightseeing time and a panoramic sunset tour for unforgettable skyline views.

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Chicago Hop On Hop Off Open Top Bus Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

3.9

(2,377)

from $49

Chicago in Spanish. Architecture. Mafia, Interiors, Underground

Discover the real Chicago with those who really know it! At ChicaGo Turismo we transform a simple tour into an unforgettable experience. More than visiting monuments, you’ll discover the history, architecture, art, mob, cinema and secrets that made Chicago one of the most influential cities in the world. You’ll walk through iconic places and corners that most visitors never get to know: the Riverwalk, the fascinating Pedway, spectacular Tiffany domes, historic buildings, movie settings like The Intouchables, Batman and Transformers, plus the stories of Al Capone, Eliot Ness, the Dry Law and other characters that marked the city. Our 100% Spanish tours are guided by certified experts who turn each stop into an exciting story. You won’t just know Chicago; you’ll understand why millions of people fall in love and why this experience will be one of the best memories of your trip.

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Chicago in Spanish. Architecture. Mafia, Interiors, Underground

3 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(8)

from $45

Chicago Architecture, History and Culture Loop Walking Tour

Explore Chicago’s historic Loop through the prism of its architecture. This three-hour trek will cover defining moments from 350 years of Chicago’s history, including the first Europeans to come through here, the Great Chicago Fire, the origin of the skyscraper, the 1893 World’s Fair, Prohibition and the creation of Millennium Park. Along the way, you’ll discover some of the Loop’s most beautiful interiors, found in buildings that thousands of people walk past every day, completely unaware of what’s inside…And how things created inside those buildings shaped our current world for the better. You’ll hear the stories of the men and women--including Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, Daniel Burnham, Potter and Bertha Palmer, and Muddy Waters--who made Chicago what it is today, and those, like Jeanne Gang, who are defining Chicago’s architectural future.

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Chicago Architecture, History and Culture Loop Walking Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(3)

from $50

Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of how a muddy Midwestern outpost transformed into the global capital of architecture. Experience everything from early, classically inspired European styles to bold American Art Deco and Modernist innovations to today’s Contemporary designs that continue to set the pace for world-leading architecture. As you journey through Chicago’s spectacular skyscraper canyons and stunning interiors, you’ll see how economics, technology, creativity, and gritty determination shaped Chicago’s ever-evolving skyline. Whether you’re a visitor or you’re a Chicagoan who has never explored the architectural masterpieces you see every day, join us today on this enlightening adventure.

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Intro to Chicago Architecture

1 hour 45 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(19)

from $35

Per group

Chicago's Ultimate City Bike Tour of Top Downtown Attractions

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(271)

from $59

Downtown Chicago Loop Walking Tour (Private)

Discover the stories, styles, and spirit that built Chicago into the architectural capital of the world. On this walking tour through the Loop, you’ll explore the birthplace of the skyscraper, visit landmarks like the Chicago Theatre, the Pablo Picasso at the Daley Plaza, and Millennium Park, and see how the city rose from the Great Fire to define modern design. Led by a friendly local guide who’s passionate about Chicago’s history and architecture, this tour brings the skyline to life one building, story, and photo stop at a time. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a first-time visitor, or a curious local, you’ll walk away seeing Chicago in a whole new way.

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Downtown Chicago Loop Walking Tour (Private)

2 hoursFree Cancellation

from $27

Iconic Action Film and Movie Locations 1 Day Tour in Chicago

From the Gotham chaos in The Dark Knight to the explosive battles of Transformers, Chicago’s skyline has played a starring role in countless blockbusters. On today’s Chicago Film and Television Tour, you'll explore the city through the lens of movie magic. Begin at one of Chicago’s most iconic theaters, seen in The Blues Brothers and Transformers. Stroll through downtown streets flanked by skyscrapers featured in the Joker’s money truck chase scene in The Dark Knight. At Union Station, relive the dramatic staircase sequence from The Untouchables, where Kevin Costner’s character battles criminals as a baby carriage tumbles down. Visit the University of Chicago, whose Gothic architecture and academic prestige have made it a popular filming location. Along the way, admire Chicago’s rare mechanical lift bridges and architectural wonders that make the city a perfect backdrop for filmmakers. In Chicago, every corner holds a scene, and every street tells a story—waiting for you to explore.

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Iconic Action Film and Movie Locations 1 Day Tour in Chicago

9 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(1)

from $158

Let’s take photos at one of Chicago’s most famous spots - the bright red CHICAGO sign at the Chicago Theatre! During this 30-40 minute photo walk, I’ll help you pose and feel comfortable while taking high-quality photos using iPhone, optimized for social media. You’ll receive about 50 digital photos, including 5 professionally color-edited images, delivered via a private online gallery. Please download your photos within 14 days after receiving access, as the gallery link will expire.

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Express Chicago Photo Tour of Landmarks

30 to 40 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(4)

from $99

Chicago and All MidWest Self Guided AI Audio Tours for 7 Days

With this AI app, you're no longer restricted to crowded group tours or rigid scripts. Explore iconic Chicago sites like Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile—or dive deep into 1920s mobster hangouts and hidden Prairie Style masterpieces. Ask about literally anything that catches your eye—from a Gilded Age historic district to a secret jazz club or a towering steel-and-glass skyscraper. The Windy City's deepest secrets are entirely yours to uncover. Point & Discover: Snap a photo of any monument or museum masterpiece to instantly receive a captivating and accurate story. It’s like having a historian in your pocket! Ultimate Freedom: Navigate seamlessly with interactive map-based audio tours. Your schedule, your pace, your rules. Choose Your Vibe: Select a narrator persona that matches your style—from a deep-diving scholar to a fun companion for the kids. Get Started: 7 Days of Premium Access available instantly for iPhone and Android.

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Chicago and All MidWest Self Guided AI Audio Tours for 7 Days

7 daysFree Cancellation

5.0

(2)

from $12

Chicago Seasonal Stroll Walking Tour of Holiday Attractions

Discover many of Chicago’s best-known landmarks—and see the city dressed up in its festive best—on this holiday walking tour of the Windy City. Come bundled and join your guide and small group to explore the famous Christkindlmarket. Then continue to discover Millennium Park’s ice rink and Christmas tree, stroll the Magnificent Mile’s glowing lights, and more while you hear fun facts and cultural insights from your guide.

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Chicago Seasonal Stroll Walking Tour of Holiday Attractions

2 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(5)

from $45

Chicago Photo Walk to Bean and Landmarks

1 hourFree Cancellation

5.0

(32)

from $169

Chicago Explorer Pass: 35+ Things To Do - Includes 360 CHICAGO

1 to 30 days

4.0

(365)

from $84

Chicago Family Food and Bike Tour with Top Attractions

4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(101)

from $79

Chicago Loop Food Tour: Taste the Most Iconic Local Eats

Get to know the “must eats” in Chicago's buzzing Loop District on this small-group or private walking tour. As you explore, listen to in-depth commentary from your guide about the culinary history of Chicago, and get a taste of the city's most iconic foods, from hot dogs to deep-dish pizza. You'll enjoy personalized attention and the chance to chat about your favorite tastings, all while admiring Chicago landmarks along the way.

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Chicago Loop Food Tour: Taste the Most Iconic Local Eats

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(130)

from $87

Price varies by group size

Chicago Full-Day Walking Food Tour with Free Bike or Kayak Rental

Get ready for the most complete adventure the city has to offer—an immersive Full Day Chicago Food Tour and Walking Tour that blends Chicago’s legendary flavors with its most iconic landmarks. Savor Chicago Pizza, Hot Dogs, Italian Beef, Garrett’s Chicago Mix Popcorn, and the original Palmer House Brownie, or elevate your day with our VIP craft beer upgrade. This unforgettable Chicago in a Day Tour explores Millennium Park, the Chicago Riverwalk, Michigan Avenue, Cloud Gate, Chicago Theater, and more, guided by true local experts. Enjoy a 5-hour journey through culture and cuisine, plus a FREE 2-hour bike or kayak rental to continue the adventure along Lake Michigan. Recently honored among the “Top 10 Food Tours in America” (USA Today) and “Top 20 Food Tours in the World” (TripAdvisor), this award-winning Culinary Tour is one of the top Things to do in Chicago. Don’t miss the most delicious, scenic Full Day Food Tour in Chicago—all in one extraordinary day.

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Chicago Full-Day Walking Food Tour with Free Bike or Kayak Rental

5 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(2)

from $99

Prohibition Chicago: Myth vs. Reality Walking Tour

More than 100 years later, stories of Prohibition-era Chicago still capture the public’s imagination. But the portrayal of that era in popular culture isn't always accurate. On this tour, you’ll hear how the culture in turn-of-the-century Chicago helped bring about the 18th Amendment through stories of notorious vice districts along the Chicago River and the South Loop. We'll talk about the rise of Al Capone during the infamous “Beer Wars,” culminating in the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. Along the way, we’ll talk about how the city played a role in the popular and artistic growth of jazz, and how Chicago during the Roaring Twenties has been depicted on screen, in blockbusters such as "The Untouchables" and "Chicago." Please be advised that this tour contains stories of murder and sex work. Although children are welcome on this tour, parents should use their discretion in determining whether it is suitable for those under 15.

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Prohibition Chicago: Myth vs. Reality Walking Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(1)

from $35

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What are people saying about Chicago Theatre

The Chicago Theatre Tour Experience

paul_w, Mar 2026

Very friendly staff....

Very friendly staff. Learned a lot more than I thought I would. Answered any questions that was given.

Chicago Explorer Pass: 35+ Things To Do - Includes 360 CHICAGO

Jacalyn_J, Sep 2023

Great Tour!!

Knowledgeable tour guide, clean, safe boat ride. Left much more knowledgeable about the city’s beginnings, history and architecture! Would recommend for groups and families.

The Chicago Theatre Tour Experience

Ervin_B, Feb 2026

So much history.

Great experience. We were going to a show that night so we wanted to to check out the venue prior. Jackie our tour guide was amazing. If you are stateside, be sure to download the pass prior.

Chicago Explorer Pass: 35+ Things To Do - Includes 360 CHICAGO

stephanie_c, Mar 2025

Excellent choice to see the sights in Chicago

Excellent value great way to choose your places of interest found the go city app very helpful super choice of sights to see

Chicago Theatre

5.0

(7,135)

Chicago

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.

Chicago Theatre Tours and Tickets

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What are people saying about Chicago Theatre

Chicago Theatre

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