All Illinois Tours & Excursions in 2026

Discover the architectural gems of the Windy City from an ideal vantage point—and learn insider facts and stories about the city's top attractions—on this Chicago River cruise. Travel in comfort aboard a boat equipped with both indoor and outdoor seating areas. Covering more than 130 years of architectural history, this tour is the perfect opportunity to see a huge area of the city without the hassle of taxis and public transit.

Get a front row perspective on the exquisite buildings that line the Chicago River during a 45-minute architecture cruise. Hear live commentary about the history and architectural heritage of Chicago on this family-friendly tour, which highlights landmarks such as the Chicago Riverwalk, Michigan Avenue Bridge, Wrigley Building, and Willis Tower. Sit on the open-air top deck or the sheltered bottom deck for the ultimate view of Chicago.

Get the most out of your trip to Chicago as you enjoy discount access to five of the city’s top attractions with the CityPASS®. This easy-to-use mobile ticket grants you free entry into top-tier sights including the Chicago's most famous aquarium and Skydeck Chicago, plus your choice of admission to three of the following attractions: Field Museum, Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Science and Industry, 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck, Adler Planetarium, or Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour.

Discover one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s enduring masterpieces—and learn all about the Prairie school of architecture—when you visit his Oak Park Home and Studio. Known as the birthplace for Wright’s vision of American architecture, the landmark is recognizable for its flowing rooms and rich, wooden textures. Book your ticket before you travel to guarantee your admission: you can join a tour offered by the venue.

Admire some of the Windy City's most iconic views—and enjoy a time-saving, relaxing way to sightsee—aboard this pet-friendly Chicago River architecture boat tour. With commentary from your onboard guide, watch the spectacular skyline glide by, including dozens of notable buildings, like the Wrigley Building and the John Hancock Building. In just one tour, you cover multiple branches of the Chicago River and learn insider facts and stories you'd otherwise miss.

Visit the Skydeck, located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower), with ease thanks to this prebooked ticket option. Avoid long lines at the ticket office and enter directly to access the highest point in Chicago. Peruse interactive displays and exhibits showcasing Chicago's history. Then walk out on to the Ledge, a glass balcony that offers unimpeded views of Navy Pier and Wrigley Field.

Drink in a one-of-a-kind perspective on the Windy City when you go for an evening cruise, perfectly timed to coincide with the sunset. Hop aboard your open-top vessel (with an enclosed and climate-controlled lounge) in the heart of the Magnificent Mile, and cruise along the Chicago River. Then, see the skyline from a distance, and watch the skyscrapers light up, when you continue to Lake Michigan for a sunset viewing.

Tower above the Windy City’s world-famous skyline with pre-booked admission to 360 Chicago—a great way to avoid long ticket lines. Ascend one of the tallest buildings in North America aboard its lightning-fast elevator, and be rewarded with bird’s-eye views of Chicago and Lake Michigan. You can also upgrade to the Sip and View ticket, which includes one drink at the newly renovated CloudBar. Once onsite, you can purchase tickets to TILT, 360 Chicago's top attraction.

The Centennial Wheel at Chicago’s Navy Pier is one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks and as well as being visible from all over the city, you can enjoy some impressive views from the wheel, too. Don’t risk missing out on tickets to ride. This admission ticket gives you multiple rotations on the wheel and access to the other onsite amenities, including the restaurants.

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.

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!

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.

Experience Chicago’s fireworks like never before on a river cruise with 3D viewing glasses. Cruise past major sights like Buckingham Fountain, Museum Campus, and the John Hancock Building while learning about the city's history from your onboard guide. Capture stunning skyline photos and enjoy front-row views of the dazzling fireworks from the mouth of the river.

The best views of Chicago can be yours at 360 Chicago Observation Deck! Perched 94 stories above the Windy City in the former John Hancock Building, 360 Chicago provides commanding views of Lake Michigan and Chicago’s towering skyscrapers. Located in the heart of downtown on Michigan Avenue, the observatory is steps away from other top Chicago attractions. It will be the high point (literally) of your Chicago trip! Upgrade to the Sip and View ticket, which includes one drink at the newly renovated CloudBar. The Sip menu includes a rotating selection of beer, wine and cocktails. Once onsite, you can purchase tickets to TILT, a thrill ride that offers visitors unique, downward facing views from 1,030 feet. You may also choose to upgrade your Sip and View ticket from the Sip Menu to the Elevated Menu for an additional $8. *TILT not included in purchase

Immerse yourself in one of Chicago's most vibrant neighborhoods—and head off the tourist trail to discover sights and bites many visitors miss—on this small-group Chinatown food and walking tour. With your guide in the lead, learn about the cuisine of different regions of China, and discover the history of Chicago's Chinatown. Along the way, enjoy a generous array of tastings, from dim sum to Sichuan cuisine and beyond.

Explore a new side of Chicago and the city's gangster past on this mafia tour in a coach vehicle. Drive around the Windy City to see where Al Capone, The Untouchables, Hymie Weiss, John Dillinger, and more famous figures hung out. There are ample chances to get out of the bus and pose for pictures in front of a historic courthouse, among other infamous sites.

Step aboard a boat for a comprehensive cruise that details the history of Chicago's architecture. Enjoy views of the Chicago skyline accompanied by architecture-focused commentary that points out each of the landmark buildings. As you cruise through Lake Michigan, snap photos of you and your party against the stretch of Chicago's 26-mile shoreline.

Enter a land of sugar and adventure with admission to Chicago’s Museum of Ice Cream. Immerse yourself in a vibrant world of interactive exhibits, including sprinkle-filled pools, whimsical selfie spots, and exclusive ice cream sampling stations offering seasonal flavors. Whether you’re an art lover or a dessert enthusiast, this playful, family-friendly experience promises fun and memories for all. Avoid disappointment by booking your preferred time.

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to explore Chicago's top attractions is through a Chicago Explorer Pass by Go City. Save money compared to buying individual attraction tickets, and create your own sightseeing itinerary by choosing from among more than 35 top sites, including the Skydeck Chicago, a sightseeing cruise, a hop-on hop-off Big Bus tour, Navy Pier, and more.

See Chicago from a different perspective on this evening cruise that explores the city’s darker side. As twilight settles over the skyline, glide along the Chicago River while hearing chilling tales of disasters, infamous criminals, and eerie legends tied to the city’s past. This relaxed river cruise blends atmospheric storytelling with some of the best nighttime views of Chicago’s renowned skyline and landmarks. Grab a drink from the onboard bar, settle in, and let the city’s shadowy history unfold as you cruise through the heart of downtown. By the end of the journey, you’ll have experienced Chicago’s skyline in a whole new way—while uncovering the chilling events, legends, and mysteries that shaped the city. Please arrive 30 minutes in advance!

Kick back and enjoy a great meal while taking in the sights of Chicago's most famed landmarks on this scenic lunch cruise along Lake Michigan. See and photograph the dramatic city skyline, Navy Pier, Soldier Field, and Shedd Aquarium. The cruise includes a delicious buffet lunch with salads, entrees, desserts, and unlimited nonalcoholic beverages. There's also a DJ, games, and a dance floor to keep your group entertained.

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.

Take in views of the Chicago skyline and its landmarks during this Lake Michigan sightseeing boat cruise. Enjoy a laidback ride, soaking up panoramic views from this unique perspective. Listen to audio commentary to give you fresh insight into the landmarks you see, like Navy Pier and the Willis Tower, and feel free to bring your own lunch or grab a drink at the onboard bar (own expense).