Chicago Theatre Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the Chicago Theatre. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

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

• Chicago's Ultimate City Bike Tour

• Walkin' With Colin: Chicago History-Mystery-Comedy-Tragedy Tour

• Chicago Food Tour: Taste the City's Most Iconic Eats

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.

Yes, all visitors to Chicago should check out the Chicago Theatre while sightseeing in the city, even if just from the outside. The colorful neon signage is famous and makes a great photo op. You can also take guided tours inside (on Fridays) or book a ticket to a show. Many Chicago guided tours pass by the theater and provide some background.

Per one customer who booked The Chicago Theatre Tour Experience, "Interesting to hear about the history of this iconic building. Always good to see behind the scenes. To hear the organ played and visit the dressing room was great."

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

• Chicago Riverwalk

• Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower

• The Magnificent Mile

• Chicago River

• Navy Pier

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Chicago.