All Illinois Tours & Excursions in 2026

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.

Discover the unique journey of Pope Leo XIV through Chicago on this interactive bus tour. Visit his childhood home and childhood church in the suburb of Dolton on this one of a kind experience. This tour not only showcases the Pope's life but also intertwines the vibrant culture of Chicago, making it a must for both visitors and locals. Enjoy exclusive insights from knowledgeable guides while engaging with the city's rich history and faith. - Guided bus tour through Chicago’s historical sites related to Pope Leo XIV - Pickup at Holy Name Cathedral in the heart of the city

Downtown Chicago has a dark history hiding in plain sight. This self-guided audio tour takes you through the Loop on your own schedule, with narration on your phone at every stop. Start at the Chicago Riverwalk, where the SS Eastland rolled over at its dock in 1915. Walk into Death Alley behind the site of the Iroquois Theater fire. Hear the ghost stories of the Palmer House and the Congress Plaza Hotel, the secrets of the Rookery, and the stories beneath Willis Tower, then finish on the steps of the Art Institute. No group, no guide, and no fixed start time. Go at your own pace, stop for a drink along the way, and replay any story you like. All you need is a phone and headphones.

Discover the natural beauty of Lake Geneva and the tranquil Anderson Japanese Gardens on this private 10‑hour getaway from Chicago. Begin your day with convenient pickup and enjoy a scenic drive as your expert guide shares insights about the region. Once at Lake Geneva, you’ll have free time to explore its picturesque lakeside paths, historic estates, and even take an optional cruise. Afterward, immerse yourself in the serene pathways of Anderson Japanese Gardens, where elegant bridges, koi ponds, and peaceful landscapes await. This personalized tour offers a relaxing and enriching experience, perfect for couples, families, and small groups seeking a nature‑filled escape.

"Dive into adventure with Let’s Roam, your go-to for the ultimate app-led adventure hunts! Step into a world where every landmark and hidden gem is waiting to be discovered. Challenge yourself with trivia, tackle brain-teasing puzzles, and embark on an epic journey of exploration! Whether you’re collaborating with your crew or turning up the competition, Let’s Roam Adventure Hunts guarantee a blast for all. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a spontaneous outing, a wild bachelorette bash, a festive birthday celebration, or a team-building extravaganza. Each player gets to dive into an interactive role, ensuring every challenge is as thrilling and unique as the next. So, gather your squad, choose your adventure, and let the good times roll! With Let’s Roam, every outing becomes a treasure trove of memories and excitement. Are you ready to conquer the city and create unforgettable experiences? Let’s Roam and make every day an adventure!"

Enjoy a private, fully personalized sunset tour along Chicago’s scenic lakefront. Travel in comfort with your English-speaking driver, who shares insights into the city’s architecture, skyline, and history while guiding you to the best photo spots. Begin at Museum Campus, where the skyline rises above Lake Michigan, offering stunning reflections at golden hour. Continue to Adler Planetarium for one of Chicago’s most iconic panoramic skyline views. Visit Buckingham Fountain, where the historic landmark creates a beautiful foreground for sunset photos. Head to North Avenue Beach to capture the skyline stretching across the horizon as the sun sets, then enjoy a scenic drive along Lake Shore Drive as city lights begin to glow. With a flexible itinerary and door-to-door service, this experience offers a relaxed, unforgettable way to capture Chicago’s skyline from day to night.

Dive into Chicago’s Magnificent Mile on an interactive scavenger hunt, perfect for families, friends, or team building! Guided by clues on your phone, you’ll solve puzzles, unlock local legends, and discover iconic sites like the Old Water Tower, Tribune Tower, and bustling Riverwalk—plus hidden gems along the way. Go at your own pace, compete for fun, and see the best of Chicago’s lively downtown in a whole new way. Teams of up to six welcome; no local knowledge required—just curiosity and comfy shoes.

Experience the joy of the holiday season aboard the Santa Claus Sleigh Ride Cruises on the Chicago River. This 75-minute ride offers a unique opportunity to enjoy Chicago's stunning winter skyline while creating cherished memories with the family. From November 14 to December 20, join us every Saturday and Sunday for festive fun, including a special visit from Santa himself. Dress warmly, as rides are weather permitting, and come prepared for a delightful outing that supports veterans in need through Shepherd's House. - 75-minute scenic cruise along the Chicago River - Family-friendly experience with a visit from Santa Claus - Available Saturdays and Sundays from November 14 to December 20 - Drinks and snacks available for purchase on board

Great customer service is our focus! Our customer service is what sets us apart. Hence, we do not leave our clients hanging when problems occur (flight cancellations, weather, etc.). We work with clients to meet their needs. We also provide a concierge-type service and our drivers are well-trained professionals. See you in Chicago!

Travel the legendary Route 66 in 14 unforgettable days - from Chicago to Los Angeles across eight states, discovering over 450 handpicked points of interest. Explore iconic landmarks, historic towns, scenic detours, hidden gems, classic diners, and breathtaking landscapes while creating your own version of America’s most famous road trip.

Go beyond Capone. An expert guides uncovers the Beer Wars, the ambushes, and the brutal rivalries on these exact streets.

This self-guided bike tour traces Chicago's reinvention from the ashes of the Great Fire to the skyline that rose in its place, pedaling the Lakefront Trail with Lake Michigan on one side and the city's icons on the other. The route begins near Navy Pier and rolls through Museum Campus, past the Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and Field Museum. Buckingham Fountain and the towering Willis Tower come next, followed by Millennium Park's Cloud Gate — Chicago's beloved "Bean." A quick pass through the Loop takes in the Chicago Theatre, State Street, and Union Station before crossing the Chicago River. Stories of the Great Fire and the innovators who rebuilt the city play through your headphones the whole way. Perfect for first-time visitors, casual cyclists, and anyone craving a fresh angle on the city. Download the VoiceMap app and enter the ticket code from your confirmation email to start riding.

Discover the rich history and dynamic transformation of Hyde Park on this engaging walking tour. Delve into the neighborhood's evolution from a lakeside retreat for the elite to a vibrant, diverse community shaped by migration, policy, and social change. Explore iconic landmarks like the Museum of Science and Industry while gaining insight into the impacts of racial segregation and urban renewal. This tour is designed for history buffs and urban studies enthusiasts, offering a nuanced perspective on the intersection of race and community development. - Walk through Hyde Park and learn about its historical significance - Visit key sites related to civil rights and urban policy - Understand the neighborhood's transformation and ongoing challenges - Perfect for history lovers and those curious about social dynamics

Discover the very best of New York City in one unforgettable experience! From the majestic Statue of Liberty and the historic Brooklyn Bridge to famous neighborhoods, hidden gems, and picture-perfect skyline views — this tour captures it all. Enjoy guided stops at iconic landmarks, learn fascinating stories from your local guide, and experience the true energy of the city that never sleeps. Perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to see it all, this experience blends history, culture, and unbeatable photo ops at every turn. Come ready to explore, snap amazing pictures, and make lasting memories on the ultimate NYC adventure!

Our tours have varying difficulty levels to accommodate different skill levels. We take every safety precaution available to prioritize your well-being. Our routes that take you to must-see attractions and beautiful destinations. The Bahāʾī temple that we will pass is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the only Bahāʾī place of worship in North America. This weekend vacation to Milwaukee is a vibrant mix of urban excitement and nature. Notable spots that riders can visit are the Milwaukee Art Museum, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame Museum, and the Black Holocaust Museum. The city is also home to over 40 breweries, with iconic names like Schlitz and Pabst leading the way. On the ride you'll traverse mostly flat terrain that shifts between suburban areas and secluded bike paths. Expect southward winds along the lake, be prepared to experience some headwinds during your ride. Roads: 79% paved, 21% trails Distance: 74.6 miles Elevation: +963 ft/ - 1,058 ft

Step into the vibrant, resilient heart of Chicago's South Side. On this immersive journey through Bronzeville, you will uncover the epic story of the Great Migration—a time when millions of African Americans fled the Jim Crow South to build a self-sustaining 'Black Metropolis'. From the birthplace of gospel music to the headquarters of a newspaper that changed the nation, discover the triumphs of entrepreneurship, the brilliance of cultural innovation, and the unyielding spirit of a community that shaped modern America. A 3.9 km self-guided tour with 7 stops over 121 min Ideal for travelers interested in Identity, Migration & Globalization and History & Memory Immersively told in a podcast style by experts and locals Matching audio content, AI guide and navigation through the app

Gather with friends at the Charm Bar to unleash your creativity. This interactive party invites you to mix, match, and layer your own unique "Jumble" style stack featuring an array of customizable charms and hand-stamped details. Personalize your pieces to reflect your style and memories, all while enjoying a fun, social atmosphere that celebrates your individuality. Perfect for a girls' night out or a special celebration, this hands-on experience ensures you'll leave with jewelry that tells your story. Price includes necklace or bracelet (only one item).

Zombie Scavengers in Peoria will help prove you can survive a zombie apocalypse! Use an app to find a list of items needed to survive. Find them in any order you'd like and get points for each found survival item. Get points also by doing crazy zombie themed tasks. Survey the area and figure out how to get the most points in order to survive the apocalypse. Should you have any questions along the way, a remote host will chat with you throughout the game. Prove to the world you can survive an apocalypse in Peoria today!

Arriving at your destination is effortless with Deenil Experiences’ airport transfer service. Enjoy a smooth ride in a clean, luxurious vehicle, where comfort meets safety. Your professional chauffeur will greet you with a friendly smile, assist with your luggage at the curbside, and provide all necessary details for a stress-free journey. With real-time arrival updates and a complimentary 15-minute grace period, you can relax knowing your travel needs are prioritized. Perfect for families, business travelers, or anyone seeking a reliable transfer experience.

You’ll be creating a unique fragrance that is true to you! We save it on file so you can order refills (at a discounted rate as long as you keep your bottle) and we rotate fragrances on the bar so you can always come in to create a new scent too! We’ve been around for over 30 years (established 1993) and have been a hidden gem in Chicago’s beautiful Lincoln Park area for the entire time. Nothing beats experience and trained perfumers to help guide and create the right proportions for you! We are BYOB—just board liquor allowed. But beer, wine, or a few hard seltzers are ok. It’s the perfect outing for date night, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, birthdays, business outings or even solo! For bigger groups (5+) you will have to book on our website or give us a call for instructions. It is a private activity in the sense that you get your own table or seating with your reservation—just like you would at a restaurant.

Discover the local shopping scene and its fashion DNA with a professional stylist as you embark on a personalized shopping circuit built to meet your style and wishes. Learn more about the art of styling your body features and take a figurative soft tour outside your comfort zone as your stylist pulls pieces for you to explore and try. Think of it as a mini style consultation followed by recommendations and a hands-on practice session during the shopping tour where you can ask any fashion and style-related questions. Throughout your shopping circuit and neighborhood's discovery, listen to fashion stories as told by your fashion savvy guide, and get a unique insight into the industry. Prior to your shopping tour, you will be sent a little shopping form to help personalize your experience. And following your fashion escapade, you will be sent a personal style summary of recommendations received by your stylist as well as some tour souvenir photos.

Enjoy a comfortable ride from your hotel or private residence—and get dropped off right outside the departure terminal—during this private one-way transfer from Chicago city center to O'Hare Airport (ORD). Get picked up right outside your door by a professional chauffeur. Travel a well-maintained car, minivan, or minibus, with room for up to 14 people. Free wait time is included in case you’re running late.

Looking for an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of paddling with the stunning natural beauty of Illinois? Our Guided Kayak Rentals near Chicago are the perfect way to experience Starved Rock State Park from a whole new perspective.

The Mississippi backwaters in this area is an untouched natural habitat. No other canoe/kayak rental company will put you into the heart of this wonderland. Take a day tour or overnight camping trip on the river. The sound of nature will calm you. Stop and listen. Visit an island with a sandy beach. Thousands of lily pads bloom huge yellow flowers in late summer. Large flocks of water fowl stop by in spring and fall. Turtles are common sights. Tall trees grow on numerous islands. Max capacity of canoe (people): 695 lbs. Max capacity of canoe (total weight including equipment): 775 lbs. Max wt. of individual person in canoe: 250 lbs. Max number of people in canoe: 5 persons Max capacity of both Pelican kayaks: 225 lbs Mac capacity of both Quest kayaks: 275 lbs We have one canoe and four kayaks so we can accommodate up to 9 people (within weight limits).