How to Plan Your Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

If you’re planning a trip to the Windy City, the Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour is a great way to see the top attractions on your list without having to worry about transportation logistics. With several strategically located stops, you can explore at your own pace and see the iconic landmarks of the city.

Overview of the Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

The Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour allows you to explore the city’s top attractions like Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile, and Grant Park. You can capture unobstructed views from the open-top double-decker bus and learn about the city’s history from the onboard audio commentary. The tour offers three different types of tickets: Classic, Premium, and Deluxe. The Classic ticket allows you to explore the city for one day, while the Premium ticket is valid for two days. The Deluxe ticket is valid for three days, and it includes extras like a panoramic night tour and a Chicago-style hot dog.

Why Travelers Choose This Tour

One of the main reasons why travelers choose this tour is because it provides a mapped-out itinerary of the city’s top sights. This takes the guesswork out of planning your own itinerary and allows you to see the most popular attractions without having to worry about transportation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Chicago or a seasoned traveler looking to experience the city in a new way, the Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour is a great choice.

What’s Included in the Tour

When you book the Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour, you’ll get access to the hop-on hop-off open-top sightseeing bus tour. The tour includes an audio guide that provides commentary on the city’s top attractions, as well as live bus tracking through the free Big Bus app. If you’re staying at a hotel in downtown Chicago, the tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off. This makes it easy to access the tour if you’re staying in the heart of the city.

How to Book Your Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Booking your Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour is easy. Simply visit the Viator website and select the type of ticket you’d like to purchase. You can choose from the Classic, Premium, or Deluxe ticket depending on how long you plan to stay in the city. Once you’ve selected your ticket, you’ll be able to choose your preferred departure time and date. You’ll then receive a confirmation email with your booking details, including information about hotel pickup and drop-off if applicable. Overall, the Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour is a great way to see the city’s top attractions without having to worry about transportation logistics. With several strategically located stops, you can explore at your own pace and learn about the city’s rich history with onboard audio commentary. Book the tour here and enjoy your trip to Chicago!

Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago

Chicago is a bustling city in the Midwest of the USA, known for its architecture, deep-dish pizza, and diverse communities. With its rich history, vibrant art scene, and countless attractions, it’s no wonder that so many people are interested in visiting the Windy City. If you’re thinking about traveling to Chicago, or even if you’re already here, this FAQ guide will help answer some of the most commonly asked questions about the city.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Chicago?

Chicago is known for having extreme weather, with snowy winters and hot summers. The best time to visit Chicago is during the mild weather months of April, May, September, and October. These months are when the weather is most comfortable for outdoor activities, and they are also less crowded than the summer months when tourists flock to the city.

2. What is the best way to get around Chicago?

Chicago has a great public transportation system, including buses and trains, which are both affordable and convenient. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) system is the easiest way to get around the city, and the elevated train system, known as the “L,” is a Chicago icon. Additionally, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, and there are numerous bike-sharing programs and bike lanes throughout the city.

3. What should I see during my trip to Chicago?

Chicago is full of attractions that are worth checking out, from the famous “Bean” sculpture in Millennium Park to the Art Institute of Chicago. Other must-see sights include Navy Pier, the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), and the Riverwalk. Additionally, the city is renowned for its food scene, so be sure to indulge in some deep-dish pizza or a Chicago-style hot dog while you’re here.

4. What are some good neighborhoods to explore in Chicago?

Chicago has many diverse and interesting neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm. Some neighborhoods worth exploring include Wicker Park, known for its trendy restaurants and bars, Logan Square for its hipster vibe, and Lincoln Park for its beautiful park and zoo. Additionally, the Loop is Chicago’s central business district and home to many of the city’s famous landmarks.

5. What is the crime rate like in Chicago?

Chicago has a reputation for being a dangerous city, but the reality is that crime rates vary depending on the neighborhood. While some areas of the city may have a higher crime rate than others, the city has been making efforts to combat crime through increased policing and community outreach programs. Visitors should always take basic safety measures, such as being aware of their surroundings and avoiding unfamiliar areas at night.

6. What events and festivals happen in Chicago?

Chicago is known for its numerous annual events and festivals, ranging from the Taste of Chicago food festival to the famous Lollapalooza music festival. Other popular events include the Chicago Auto Show, the Chicago Marathon, and the Chicago Pride Parade. Additionally, there are many neighborhood street festivals throughout the summer months that offer food, music, and crafts.

7. What is the cost of living in Chicago?

Chicago is a relatively expensive city compared to other cities in the Midwest but less expensive than other major cities such as New York or San Francisco. The cost of living varies depending on the neighborhood, but overall, housing and food are the most significant expenses. Visitors should plan to budget accordingly, but there are many affordable options for dining and entertainment.

8. Are there any famous museums in Chicago?

Chicago is home to some of the most famous museums in the world, including the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Field Museum. Additionally, the city has specialized museums such as the Chicago History Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

9. What are some outdoor activities to do in Chicago?

Chicago has many outdoor activities available for visitors, such as exploring the parks and beaches along Lake Michigan. Chicago also has many bike trails and paths, including the 18.5-mile long Lakefront Trail. Visitors can also take a boat tour of the Chicago River to see the city’s architecture from a unique perspective.

10. Where can I find the best shopping in Chicago?

Chicago offers a diverse range of shopping options, including the famous Magnificent Mile along Michigan Avenue, which offers high-end retailers and luxury boutiques. Other shopping areas to check out include the trendy Wicker Park and Bucktown neighborhoods and the vintage and antique shops of Andersonville. The city also has many farmers’ markets and food halls, offering an array of local and artisanal goods. In conclusion, Chicago has something for everyone, from its vibrant culture and rich history to its tasty food scene and world-class museums. Whether you’re planning a trip to Chicago for the first time or are a seasoned visitor, this FAQ guide will help you get the most out of your time in the Windy City. Enjoy your stay!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Chicago

Chicago is one of the most popular cities in the United States, renowned for its rich history, remarkable skyline, exceptional food, and diverse culture. Visiting Chicago can be an overwhelming experience as there are plenty of things to see and do. To help you make the most of your time in the Windy City, we have compiled this detailed guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Chicago.

1. Visit Millennium Park

Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Millennium Park is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The park spans over 24 acres and is home to several attractions, including the Bean (officially known as “Cloud Gate”), the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and the Crown Fountain. The Bean is a massive, gleaming stainless steel sculpture in the shape of a bean, and it reflects the city’s skyline, making it a perfect spot for taking photos. The Jay Pritzker Pavilion is an outdoor concert venue designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. The Crown Fountain, designed by Catalan artist Jaume Plensa, features two 50-foot towers with LED screens that show the faces of Chicago residents. The fountains spray water out of the mouths of these faces and attract children and adults alike.

2. Explore the Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States. It houses a vast collection of artwork from around the world and across time, including iconic pieces like Grant Wood’s American Gothic and Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks. The museum also features works from famous artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. A visit to the museum can take several hours, so prepare to spend some time taking in the artwork. If you’re a fan of impressionist art, the museum has an excellent collection of Monet and Renoir’s work. You can also take part in guided tours and learn more about the museum’s collection of artwork.

3. Take an Architecture Boat Tour

Chicago is known for its striking architecture, and one of the best ways to explore the city’s skyline is by taking an architecture boat tour. Several companies offer boat tours, such as Wendella Tours and Shoreline Sightseeing, and each tour takes you on a journey through the city’s architecture history. You’ll get to see some of the city’s most iconic buildings, such as the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower), the Chicago Tribune Tower, and the Wrigley Building. You’ll also learn about the history of Chicago’s architecture, including how the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 helped shape the city’s skyline.

4. Visit Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan. It offers several attractions, including the Centennial Wheel, a 200-foot tall Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the city and the lake. Other attractions at Navy Pier include the Chicago Children’s Museum, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and a variety of restaurants and shops. During the summer months, Navy Pier hosts free outdoor concerts, fireworks displays, and other events.

5. Enjoy a Deep-Dish Pizza

No visit to Chicago is complete without trying its most famous food: deep-dish pizza. This pizza style features a thick crust, a generous amount of cheese, and various toppings, such as sausage and mushrooms. There are plenty of places to try deep-dish pizza in Chicago, but two of the most famous are Lou Malnati’s and Giordano’s. Lou Malnati’s is known for its buttery crust, while Giordano’s has a reputation for its stuffed pizza, which features two layers of crust, cheese, and toppings.

6. Take a Stroll in Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s largest parks, spanning over 1,200 acres. It features several attractions, including the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, and the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool. The park is also an excellent spot for picnics, bike rides, and long walks. The lakefront trail runs through Lincoln Park, providing beautiful views of Lake Michigan.

Book Your Tour Now

Chicago is a city full of diverse cultural experiences and exciting attractions. From exploring world-renowned museums to trying its famous deep-dish pizza and taking in the skyline on an architecture boat tour, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We hope this guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Chicago helps make your trip to the Windy City a memorable one.