Whether you are a tourist just visiting Chicago, or you have lived in the city your whole life, there are some tours that just aren’t on the radar for sightseers. This is a guide to three tours you should take in Chicago.
Water Tower Place
Everyone knows that Water Tower Place is a must-see for anyone shopping on the Magnificent Mile, but have you taken the behind-the-scenes tour? The skyscraper shopping mall offers free, 30 minute tours of the facility, taking guests on a trip through the building’s history. Everyone who takes the tour will receive a free tote bag filled with offers from retailers inside Water Tower Place.
In order to sign up for a free tour, reserve your spot online here. Groups of ten people or more should reserve their spots at least four weeks ahead of time, and there may be a fee associated with a large group. You can check in for your tour at the concierge desk in the main lobby.
The Chicago Theater
The Chicago Theater is a national landmark, and one of the last of the nation’s original movie palaces. The Marquee tour takes you on a trip back in time, where you will learn about the rich history of the venue. You can also walk across the stage, which is worth the price of admission alone.
Tickets are $12 per adult, $10 per child under 12. Groups of ten people or more pay $10 per person. You can visit the Chicago Theater Website for more information.
Macy’s State Street
I am going to get some grief for calling it Macy’s instead of Marshall Fields, but I will say that Macy’s has done a pretty good job of preserving the history of the building on State Street after taking it over a few years ago. The building has been the centerpiece of downtown Chicago for generations. They offer two different tours of the historic building; the Macy’s on State Street Historic Tour and the Window Magic Tour.
Tickets for each tour are $10 each, and visitors receive a Macy’s savings pass to use after the tour is complete. You can fill out the reservation form for your tour here.
Groups of 30 people or more can combine the Chicago Theater Tour and the Macy’s State Street tour to save $4 on admission.
