Top Illinois Christmas Tours

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.

Skip the crowds—this is a private tour for your group only! “Chicago’s Festive Lights: A Magical Christmas Journey” takes you through the heart of the Windy City during the most wonderful time of the year. Begin your tour at 875 North Michigan Avenue (formerly the John Hancock Center), adorned with holiday decorations and offering spectacular views of the city’s festive lights. Stroll down N State St, a vibrant street bustling with holiday shoppers and seasonal displays. Conclude your tour at Christkindlmarket Chicago, a traditional German holiday market filled with crafts, food, and the spirit of Christmas—an authentic and memorable way to experience the joy of a Chicago Christmas. Itineraries are subject to change based on availability.

Maximize your Chicago sightseeing on a river cruise—and travel aboard a unique historical vessel, which other tours don’t offer—on this one-of-a-kind excursion. Pick from different departure times and board a classic Chicago fireboat, which served the city’s fire department from 1937 to 1981. As you sail Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, view architectural highlights including the Wrigley Building and Chicago Lighthouse, and chart the boat’s firefighting history via the on-board displays and commentary.

On this cheerful tour you’ll see Chicago’s most famous Christmas trees, as well as several under-the-radar ones you may not know about. Your guide will lead you around downtown, stopping at the Christkindlmarkt and the old Marshall Field’s, as well as hidden-gem spots with some of the city’s most impressive holiday decor. All the while, you’ll learn about some beloved Christmas stories and traditions from across the globe, and even get to stop for some holiday sweets.

Celebrate the magic of the season on the water with a Christmas Eve Premier Dinner Cruise in Washington DC. You and your guests will enjoy a holiday 3-course, plated dinner freshly prepared by our chef, full bar service, and City Cruises’ distinctive hospitality. While onboard, experience exceptional views of Washington DC’s iconic landmarks, DJ entertainment, and festive décor. Our team will happily take care of the details, leaving you to celebrate the holidays on the Potomac River with your friends and family. Happy Holidays Includes Three-hour Christmas Eve dinner cruise on the Potomac River Chef-prepared, three-course, plated holiday menu The most breathtaking views of the nation's greatest landmarks including the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial DJ entertainment Complimentary coffee, hot tea, and iced tea

We invite you to join us on a holiday themed, festive and fun foodie adventure! This tour is just like our normal food tour, but with a holiday twist! Dig out those ugly Christmas sweaters and get ready to see the Hallmark of the Midwest in a new and foodie way. PLUS, rock out that ugly sweater and you will be in our contest to win a free tour! You will join your festive foodie guide down the famous Main Street of Galena enjoying some of the best food and drinks the town has to offer. Definitely bring an empty stomach and your holiday cheer!

Descend below street level to discover Chicago’s famed subterranean Pedway—and pair your adventure with stops at top landmarks and above-ground attractions. Meet your guide downtown, and head underground: stroll the Chicago Loop's Pedway and learn about its history, see the city’s famed Tiffany dome, visit the origin of Route 66, and finish at one of Chicago’s most iconic sculptures.