Chicago City Private Tours
Recommended by 94% of travelers
Chicago, USA
- 2 to 8 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
On most tours of Chicago, you only see a small selection of the city’s highlights, but you can customize this flexible-duration private tour to suit your schedule and tastes. Choose to discover hidden gems that most tourists miss, snap photos of landmarks like the Willis Tower, explore the Windy City’s shopping scene, and much more.
- Private tour: Ask your guide as many questions as you like
- Convenient pickup and drop-off across Chicago, including the airport
- Ideal for both Chicago layovers and longer city stays
- Lots of time to pick up souvenirs at stores across the city
What's Included
- Private transportation
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Parking Fees
- Fuel surcharge
- Gratuities
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
I offer flexible pickup locations to make your experience as convenient as possible. Whether you're staying in downtown Chicago, a vibrant neighborhood, or even have a layover at O'Hare Airport, I can arrange a pickup that works for you. If you're at O'Hare, I'll customize a quick tour to help you make the most of your time, ensuring you get back to your flight stress-free. Just let me know where you’re located, and I’ll ensure a smooth, memorable start to your tour!
Itinerary
1
Holy Name Cathedral
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
2
360 Chicago Observation Deck
45 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
3
The Magnificent Mile
1 minute • Admission Ticket Free
4
Chicago Riverwalk
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
5
LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
6
The Chicago Theatre
1 minute • Admission Ticket Free
7
Chicago Cultural Center
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
8
Millennium Park
25 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
9
The Art Institute of Chicago
1 minute • Admission Ticket Free
10
Palmer House Hilton Historic Lobby
1 minute • Admission Ticket Free
11
Marquette Building
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
12
The Rookery Building
1 minute • Admission Ticket Free
13
Chicago Board Of Trade Building
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
14
Chicago Fed's Money Museum
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
15
Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower
45 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
16
Union Station
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
17
Chinatown
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
18
Jackson Park's Japanese Garden
1 minute • Admission Ticket Free
Obama Presidential Library (Pass By)
19
Frank Lloyd Wright Trust - Frederick C. Robie House Tour
1 minute • Admission Ticket Not Included
20
University of Chicago
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
21
Museum Campus
1 minute • Admission Ticket Free
22
Field Museum
40 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
23
Clarence F. Buckingham Fountain
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
24
Navy Pier
1 minute • Admission Ticket Free
25
Lincoln Park Conservatory
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
26
Lincoln Park
40 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
27
Elks National Memorial
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
28
Wrigley Field
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
29
Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Infant seats available
- Most travelers can participate
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.7
based on 32 reviews
Aylin_K, Jul 2026
The trip was great. This was our first time in Chicago, so we got to see a lot of the city. Our tour guide was very flexible and he knew a lot about the city. He even gave us suggestions on where to eat and things to look out for such as the weather. My son had to change plans because of his summer school, but even then our guide was able to adjust to a new time and show us around. All in all great experience and I would recommend it to people who want an overview of the city.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We're delighted that your first visit to Chicago was memorable and that our guide's flexibility and expertise enhanced your trip. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to serve you again in the future.
Ann_W, Jun 2026
Saturday from O’Hare was crazy, but our driver got us to the Loop and then we spent several hours stopping several places before arriving at our hotel. We had many choices, but we decided to let him chose what he thought made the most sense and allowed us to see the most places. A very enjoyable afternoon.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Thank you for your kind words! It sounds like you had a wonderful afternoon exploring Chicago — what a great way to experience the city. I'm so glad our driver could make it a memorable trip for you and your grandson. Hope the rest of your visit was just as enjoyable!
Yolonda_M, May 2026
My tour guide was exceptionally impressive with knowledge about the history of Chicago. He was respectful and friendly. I would recommend this company to everyone visiting Chicago!
Response from Host, May 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words and for choosing Chicago City Tours! We’re very happy to hear you enjoyed learning about Chicago’s history and had a great experience during your tour. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we truly appreciate your recommendation. We hope to welcome you again on your next visit to Chicago!
Stephanie_B, Apr 2026
This was our first time in Chicago. We came for a concert, so we thought, let's see as much as we can. We booked the 4 hour private tour and upgraded to an SUV (highly recommend). Ellis was in contact during the morning and punctual at pickup. We really had no idea what we wanted to see, so we gave Ellis full reign. We weren't expecting that much, just an enjoyable trip. Wow, were we surprised. Ellis asked just enough questions to get an idea of our interests. I've lost count of the places and sights we saw! The beauty of the architecture took my breath away. Ellis never ceased to amaze us with his knowledge of each sight. So, we honestly cant recommend this trip enough. We think we'll do it again next time were here to see to sights we missed. Oh, ask for Ellis, we was AMAZING!
Response from Host, May 2026
Thank you so much for your amazing review! We’re honored you chose Chicago City Tours during your first visit to Chicago. It means a lot to hear that Ellis helped make your experience so memorable. He truly loves sharing the city’s history, architecture, and hidden gems with our guests.
We look forward to welcoming you back on your next visit so we can show you even more of the city. And we’ll be sure to share your compliments with Ellis! Thank you again!
April_W, Apr 2026
We were on a 8 hour lay over and went on a tour. Ilyas was an awesome tour guide. The historical tour of the city was so much fun and interesting. He knows the city and its history. Clean, respectful and very accommodating. We tour the city, lunch and arrived back at the airport before our flight.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for the amazing review! We’re so glad you enjoyed the historical tour and had a smooth, stress-free experience during your layover. Ilyas takes pride in making every tour special, and your kind words mean a lot. Safe travels, and we hope to see you again in Chicago!
Barbara_W, Feb 2026
This was a horrible experience with Viator. I booked this private tour for Chicago several weeks before we came. I was even contacted at 1 AM the day of the tour by Viator and told to get ready for my trip. Yet the company, Cavani tours never showed up and never answered any messages or phone calls. The number listed didn't accept voice messages as their mailbox was full. We travel a lot and usually use Tours By Locals. We did have a good experience with Viator in Barcelona and chose to use their service for our quick trip to Chicago. This was not a good choice. We spent most of our morning waiting in a hotel lobby because we were told they were just going to be delayed but again no one ever responded or came. It was a beautiful day in Chicago and a tour of the city would have been perfect. If you see that your tour is being hosted by Cavani Tours, I would cancel immediately. They aren't reliable and there is no way to contact them if there is a problem. Tours by locals is a bit more expensive but they don't disappoint. Respectfully
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for your feedback, and we’re truly sorry for the inconvenience and frustration you experienced. This is not the level of service we strive to provide.
At the time of your booking, we were experiencing a system issue with Viator where our availability remained open despite us not operating. We made multiple attempts to have this corrected, but unfortunately it was not resolved in time, which led to this situation.
We completely understand how disappointing it must have been to miss out on your tour, especially during such a beautiful day in Chicago. Please know that this issue has since been fully resolved, and our booking system is now working properly.
As a sincere apology, we would be more than happy to offer you a complimentary private tour if you visit Chicago again. We truly appreciate your patience and hope we can have the opportunity to provide you with the experience you originally expected.
Thank you again for bringing this to our attention.
lionel_r, Jul 2025
This tour was absolutely great. I did the 4-hour private tour, and it was excellent. Our driver and guide Cavani was the absolute man - great guy, knew all the best spots, he was sensitive and considerate regarding our specific needs and requests, great service - just an overall great experience. Thank you, Cavani for a great tour and a wonderful time!!!
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear you had an amazing time on the 4-hour private tour. Cavani will be so happy to know he made your experience memorable — he's truly passionate about what he does, and feedback like this means the world to us.
It was a pleasure having you, and we hope to welcome you again on another adventure soon!
Warm regards,
Ilyas
Brenda_P, Jun 2025
“E” our driver was prompt friendly
And very knowledgeable. He made sure we hard the best experience in our 6 hour time. We explored all around Chicago and inside may buildings looking at the architectural design. I would highly recommend this…. Thanks “E”
Response from Host, Jun 2025
Thanks, Brenda. It was nice meeting you ladies, and I hope you enjoyed your stay in Chicago.
Moriah_P, May 2025
I feel ripped off. The $30 was to talk to the tour guide so that you could book a ride around the city. So if you book this service you have to be prepared to pay additional charges. Again this fee is for a consultation.
Response from Host, Jun 2025
Thanks for your feedback moriah but that option was clearly say (Tour confirmation) and it doesn't guarantee the Tour who's going to do a 2 hours private tour for 30$!? and we did remove that option so people dont get confused in the future, thanks for your understanding
Lori_W, May 2025
We can’t recommend Chicago City Tours highly enough for organizing our recent family trip in Chicago! We opted for the 6 hour tour… from seamless pickup, hitting all the key spots we selected, to adding lesser known historic sites, every detail was expertly handled. Ilyas was an absolute gem, bringing Chicago to life with captivating stories and insights. The private tour was tailored to our interests, making the day memorable and engaging! Thanks to Ilyas, our time in Chicago was stress-free and truly unforgettable. If you’re planning a getaway to Chicago, this is the tour company you want!
Response from Host, May 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for choosing Chicago City Tours for your family’s trip! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the 6-hour tour and that Ilyas helped make the experience memorable with his stories and insights. It’s always our goal to tailor each tour to our guests’ interests, and we’re so glad the mix of must-see spots and hidden gems hit the mark. We truly hope you enjoyed your stay in Chicago and that the city left you with great memories. We'd love to welcome you back anytime—until then, safe and happy travels!
From $199.00
per group (up to 4)up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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Chicago City Private Tours
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