Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus
Chicago, USA
- 2 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
Explore our promoted experiences
Overview
Skip the hassle of planning your Chicago itinerary with this convenient hop-on hop-off tour, covering the city's must-see sights. With multiple strategically located stops, explore the Windy City at your own pace, hopping off to visit top attractions like the iconic Art Institute and famous skyscrapers. Enjoy insightful audio commentary as you cruise through the city, learning about its rich history and vibrant culture. Perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time, this tour offers flexibility and ease, ensuring you don’t miss any of Chicago’s highlights. Book your ticket today and experience the best of Chicago hassle-free!
- See top attractions such as Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile, and Grant Park
- Capture unobstructed views from the open-top, double-decker bus
- Learn about Chicago’s sights and history from the onboard audio commentary
- Choose a 24-, 48-, 0r 72hour tour ticket to suit your schedule
Why Travelers Choose This Tour
A full circuit introduces you to the city’s top attractions, with none of the logistical headaches.
What's Included
- Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus
- Professional digital commentary in multiple languages
- Live Bus Tracking & City Info (Download Free Big Bus App)
- Enclosed/Climate Controlled Lower Deck, Top Deck Open
- WiFi on board
- 4 Self-guided Digital Walking Tours to explore the city (if option selected)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Admission to attractions
Meeting and Pickup
Departure Point
- You may start this tour at any of the stops listed.
Itinerary
Purchase a 24-, 48-, or 72-hour Big Bus pass, download the app for timetable information, and head to one of the designated stops to begin your hop-on, hop-off tour of Chicago. The first bus departs at 10am and the last at 5pm, so you can choose a time and route to fit your schedule.
Completing the sightseeing route in one go takes about two hours but many travelers like to make full use of the pass, which allows you to get on and off whenever you like at the designated stops. The Big Bus sightseeing route includes many Chicago must-visits, such as the Navy Pier, the Magnificent Mile, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Listen to the audio guide along the way to learn more about the so-called Windy City. Buses depart every hour from each of 11 stops, so you’ll never have to wait long for your next pickup.
Completing the sightseeing route in one go takes about two hours but many travelers like to make full use of the pass, which allows you to get on and off whenever you like at the designated stops. The Big Bus sightseeing route includes many Chicago must-visits, such as the Navy Pier, the Magnificent Mile, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Listen to the audio guide along the way to learn more about the so-called Windy City. Buses depart every hour from each of 11 stops, so you’ll never have to wait long for your next pickup.
Red Loop
11 Stops
35 Points of Interest
Duration: 2 hours
Operating Schedule: Operates daily: First Bus 10AM, Last Bus 4PM. Loop duration: 2 hours. Download the free Big Bus app for stop locations, city information and live bus tracking.
1
Chicago Riverwalk
2
Skydeck Chicago
3
Millennium Park
4
Grant Park
5
Adler Planetarium
6
Field Museum
7
Chicago Architecture Center
8
Navy Pier
9
Magnificent Mile
10
360 CHICAGO
11
Mc Donald’s
Points of interest passed by on this route
Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower
The Art Institute of Chicago
The Chicago Theatre
Field Museum
Adler Planetarium
360 Chicago Observation Deck
Grant Ulysses Park
Navy Pier
Millennium Park
Water Tower Place
BigBus Chicago
Clarence F. Buckingham Fountain
Cloud Gate
Financial District
Maggie Daley Park
The Magnificent Mile
Tribune Tower
Holy Name Cathedral
Chicago River
Chicago Riverwalk
Soldier Field
The Rookery Building
Centennial Wheel
Chicago Cultural Center
Wrigley Building
American Writers Museum
The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum
Northerly Island
Jay Pritzker Pavilion
Lyric Opera of Chicago
Symphony Center - Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Monadnock Building
Chicago Fed's Money Museum
The Art Institute of Chicago
The Field Museum Store
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
- Most travelers can participate
- Choice of audio tours: Chicago Architecture, Public Art, Chicago Riverwalk, and Millennium Park
- Download the free Big Bus app for stop locations, city information and live bus tracking.
- Redeem tickets via Big Bus app or in person
- Please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required
Supplied by
Frequently Asked Questions (8)
Q:How often does a bus arrive at each stop during the Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour?
A:A bus arrives approximately every 30-45 minutes.
Mar 2022
The answers provided are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
3.9
based on 2,233 reviews
Kathleen_S, May 2026
The bus had 11 strategic stops, mostly for sights but a few also located more conveniently near hotel areas. The most important downtown sights were included. The bus had an open top, which is helpful to see the skyscrapers (though chilly on cold days, so bundle up or head downstairs), and the recorded narration via earpieces was very informative. We rode the two-hour route in two segments, surrounding a lunch break: One driver was good and stayed quiet, but the other regularly added his own narration that a) briefly duplicated the recording and b) talked over the recording so that we couldn’t understand either – plus he added plugs for tips at each stop. One other slight negative was that the bus operator’s app that we had to download was not very accurate regarding the timing of the stops. But overall, this was a good experience to get a ground-level summary of Chicago’s highlights.
Rachael_F, Apr 2026
We loved the tour and all the stops, but there are supposedly live updates as to when the bus is going to be at each stop, and it is not accurate. So if you use the big bus app, do not rely on the bus tracking.
Diana_R, Apr 2026
We had a wonderful experience even though it rained on us. And they didn’t provide ponchos. We ended up riding on the bottom floor. However it was raining so hard we couldn’t even see out the widows. Which isn’t their fault. Hence why I gave them a 5. Drivers were helpful.
Jean_F, Apr 2026
Gotta ride up top! If its cold or windy try to get behind the wind shield. Ride the full loop to see where you want to hop off later!
gmandley953, Apr 2026
Anton was fabulous providing the history of the city. Fantastic personality. Thank you Anton. Thank Anton
Antonio_H, Apr 2026
Horrible
Booked and vendor could not activate tickets. Lost whole day. Got a refund but missed a planned family fun
Barbra_E, Apr 2026
It was good. Tour was great. I would go again. They were very knowledgeable and the 2 hours was worth it.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Hi Barbra_E, thank you for the wonderful review. We are happy that you had such a positive experience. We look forward to your next visit! Best, Denisa from Big Bus Tours
Marie_S, Apr 2026
We want to express our gratitude to Candace for providing us with transportation to our Hilton hotel when we missed the last hop-on-hop-off bus. We want her to know we truly appreciated her kindness.
Thanks,
Marie and William (Indiana)
Laura_C, Apr 2026
It was awesome. The driver and person talking where so nice. I learned alot about Chicago. The say its the most beautiful city in the world and it is.
Beatrice_M, Apr 2026
The bus driver was very nice and knowledgeable. We saw so many attractions while on the bus and Felicia knew about everything. Thanks
Tracey_M, Apr 2026
Excellent overview of the city! Very informative in a short amount of time if your time is limited or if you want to take your time, you can do that to. Lots of options to enjoy the sites.
Bruce_R, Apr 2026
Candice was the best tour guide. Her witty commentary and bubbling personality made the experience. Even though it rained the upper deck offered a covered and excellent view. A must do for your visit to downtown Chicago.
Delores_W, Apr 2026
When did the 24 hour on and off which was great. Enjoyed it very much. The second day we were able to do it but downstairs was extremely hot. It seemed like the heat was on and I don’t know if he was able to turn it off.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Hi Delores_W. We wish to thank you for your feedback. We want to express our gratitude for your feedback. It brings us joy to know that you had a great time with us. We apologize for the discomfort caused by the heat in the lower section. Occasionally, the weather can affect the tour experience, but we do offer the chance to sit on the open top and enjoy the refreshing breeze while taking in the sights. We look forward to welcoming you back soon. Best, Vlad from Big Bus Tours.
Paul_R, Apr 2026
The narration was pre-recorded. It often did not line up with where we were. A building was being described where there was no building. The description came after we had passed something or before we had reached it.
Our driver’s driving was a bit erratic - jerky.
Thomas_R, Apr 2026
It is a great way to see Chicago, just park once and spend the day hopping off at the stops you want to visit.
David_G, Apr 2026
The weather was awful and the roof upstairs was leaking but the commentary was very interesting would still recommend as a great way of seeing Chicago
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Hi David! Thank you for your lovely review. If the condition of the bus is unsatisfactory, you can take advantage of our Hop On Hop Off service and jump on the next bus, in these cases, please be sure to let the driver know the issue you had on their bus before swapping. We hope to welcome you onboard again soon. Best, Ana from Big Bus Tours.
Nicki_S, Apr 2026
This is a great way to see the city while stopping at great destinations! The drivers are so nice and knowledgeable about the city.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Hi Nicki_S,
Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us! We are glad to hear that you got to explore the beautiful sights while also discovering the city's history. We prioritize ongoing training for our team to ensure you receive outstanding service. We hope to see you again in the future! Best wishes. Cristian T, Big Bus Tours
Faye_C, Apr 2026
Poor communication. Limited bus pick up times. Does not cover a very large area of Chicago. Bad communication about when buses come. We ended up walking most of the day. The music is so awful.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Hi Faye_C,
Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us! It really helps us to improve our services. We are sorry to hear that you did not enjoy our service this time. We recommend using the Live Tracking feature on our app to help plan your route on the day. We hope to see you on a Big Bus Tour again soon! Best wishes. Cristian T, Big Bus Tours
Robert_J, Mar 2026
Terrible, the code did not work and I am trying to get either rescheduled or refunded sadly the code or ticket did not work
Paula_G, Mar 2026
Hello,
We booked a tour on 3/28. We started at Millennium Park, took photos at the Planetarium and got off at Navy Pier. The driver was great. We got back on around 2:45, and were disappointed in the tour from there. The driver didn't say anything about what we were seeing, or where they left us off. We did know there was a protest as we were told when we first boarded. But, when we were asked to leave the bus, we weren't told where we were, or how or when we could resume the tour. It abruptly ended without any further instruction. I feel that the company. should have offered some sort of discount or partial refund. If we hadn't picked up the bus at 2:45, we would have been at Navy Pier just waiting for another bus. The company knew of the protest in the morning, but didn't appear to plan for it. It was a disappointment.
Joanna_B, Mar 2026
KUDOS to CANDACE! She was fabulous! No need to get the earphones if you’re on her bus! She will energetically give you “fun facts”about Chicago along with humor.She goes above and beyond to make sure your experience is memorable. She even offered to take pictures of her guests at a scenic location overlooking Lake Michigan. She is THE reason I gave 5 stars. We had 2 other bus drivers, who were just that, bus drivers. While on their buses, we did use the earphones for about 20 seconds, but got bored and would rather just take in the views. The location of the stops were convenient to visit ALOT of Chicago’s “must dos”. All for all, it was worth the money, and I would recommend “the bus” to see the sights without the worry of driving and parking. Thank you Candace for making our trip to Chicago wonderful and memorable!!!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Hi Joanna_B. We wish to thank you for your feedback. We are glad to hear that your experience in Chicago was amazing, thanks to Candace, who enhanced your time spent with us thanks to the fun facts provided. We are delighted that our staff made their best to ensure your experience is only perfect. We hope to have you back soon. Best, Vlad from Big Bus Tours.
Glenn_B, Mar 2026
Was not a good experience for the first 45 min. Then we transferred buses and it got much better. First bus there was no narration
Barbara_R, Mar 2026
We began our tour in Chicago at the Water Tower. Upon hopping onto the bus the driver was rude when we asked him a question about the sights. His response was “he wasn’t a tour guide” which we already knew. If he or his assistant would have offered the headphones we probably would not have asked anything. When we arrived at the starting point (Trump Tower) we got off the bus and hopped onto a different bus. What a difference this bus driver was, he offered the headphones and asked how our day was going, he was amazing, he made commentary, he answered questions, he took pictures he even offered to stop so we could buy some glitzes (hotdogs). Unfortunately we did not get his name. But a shout out to this amazing man who made our route memorable.
Sandy_R, Mar 2026
This worked out really well for our family.
Allows you to get to the main sightseeing places and track the busses via the app for realtime updates to catch the bus when you were done at the various locations. Friendly drivers and a good way to learn a little history.
Tj_B, Mar 2026
I have done these bus tours in lots of cities and always found them very informative. This one played music and very little talking about the city and what we were seeing. So disappointing. It was also very confusing and contradictory as to what times the pick up was. It was not consistent. The pickup stops were not clearly marked. When I pressed show me the stop the picture had a sandwich board with a sign that said big bus stop but there was no such sign and the bus passed us because we were over by the kiosk with big bus on the next corner. This tour needs a lot of upgrades and the signage needs to be consistent. Had I known that busses would have an 45 to an hour pickup between buses I probably would not have taken this tour. I will definitely be finding out more information before I take another one of these.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Hello TJ! We truly appreciate your review. We're sorry to learn that your experience in Chicago wasn't up to par. Please reach out to us through email or chat, and our team will gladly assist you. Your feedback is valuable to us, and we will do our utmost to improve ourselves. Wishing you a wonderful day! Ana from Big Bus Tours.
TJ_D, Mar 2026
We purchased the Big Bus tour expecting an informative overview of Chicago; however, our experience was disappointing. The audio on the bus was very difficult to hear, and the commentary itself was brief and not particularly informative.
We decided to hop off at one of the stops with the intention of getting back on later, but we were unable to locate the designated pickup area. There was no visible signage indicating where to re-board, and the directions in the app were not specific enough to guide us to the correct location.
As a result, we ended up walking for the remainder of the day because buses were running very infrequently. The app indicated that only three buses were operating at the time, with wait times of up to an hour for the next bus. Had there been clear signage, we would have been able to wait at the correct pickup location. We actually saw the bus pass by but could not reach the corner in time before it left.
This experience was very disappointing, especially since we have previously used Big Bus tours in other cities with great success. Our experiences in New York and Boston were both enjoyable and well organized, which is why this visit was such a surprise.
Given these issues, we would appreciate your review of this situation and consideration of an appropriate resolution.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Hey TJ! Thank you for your review. We're sorry to hear that you had some trouble with the audio and our app, which made your experience less enjoyable. Big Bus Tours is proud of our high-quality audio experiences, which we have recently upgraded and rolled out to most of our cities, with the last few to come soon. We are confident that you will appreciate the audio guide on your next trip, so be sure to take another Big Bus Tour the next time you travel. You can always get in touch with us via email or chat, and our team will be more than happy to help you. Have a lovely day! Cheers, Ana from Big Bus Tours.
Deb_J, Feb 2026
Probably not the best hop on/off we’ve done however it does give you a basic introduction to Chicago. We would have liked a bit more commentary about the area. Winter time seems to also be challenging with less buses available. We didn’t catch his name but the male bus driver was quite good some more anecdotes to the recorded commentary.
Robert_S, Feb 2026
Great overview of the city. Driver and check in staff were professional and courteous. I would highly recommend.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Hi Robert_S, thank you for the great review. We are happy that you had an amazing experience with our staff. Thank you for recommendation. We hope to have you on board again one day soon! Best, Denisa from Big Bus Tours
Aida_d, Feb 2026
Awful did not get on it since it close early. It was close at 4 pm. Which we wanted to get on at four
Laura_F, Feb 2026
My husband and I enjoyed the big bus tour. It was very convenient in the winter with the snow. The bus was covered so you were protected from the cold and wind. Also they provided headphones so you could listen to the audio tour.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Thank you for your awesome review, Laura! I'm glad to hear that you have enjoyed the tour during the winter in spite of the cold. We hope to see you again soon, perhaps in a different city! Eugen, Big Bus Tours
From $49.00
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
Compare Similar Experiences
Current
Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus
2,233
2 hours
Free Cancellation
From
$49.00
Customers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought
Attractions in Chicago, USA
- Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower (Sears Tower) Tours & Tickets
- Frederick C. Robie House Tours & Tickets
- Field Museum Tours & Tickets
- House of Blues Tours & Tickets
- University of Chicago Tours & Tickets
- Northerly Island Tours & Tickets
- 360 Chicago Observation Deck (Formerly John Hancock Observatory) Tours & Tickets
- Medieval Times Chicago Tours & Tickets
- Chicago Board of Trade Building Tours & Tickets
- Chicago Loop Tours & Tickets
- Chicago Theatre Tours & Tickets
- Prairie Avenue Historic District Tours & Tickets
- Lincoln Park Conservatory Tours & Tickets
- Lake Michigan Tours & Tickets
- Chicago Pedway Tours & Tickets
- Rookery Building Tours & Tickets
- Wrigley Field Tours & Tickets
- Water Tower Place Tours & Tickets