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Chicago Self-Guided Audio Tour

Overview
Embark on an exhilarating journey through Chicago, the "City of Big Shoulders," with our comprehensive self-guided audio tour. From the bustling Loop to the serene shores of Lake Michigan, uncover the rich tapestry of history, culture, and innovation that defines this iconic American city.

Our expert narration brings to life the stories behind Chicago's most famous landmarks and hidden gems, revealing the city's evolution from a frontier outpost to a global metropolis. You'll explore architectural marvels that have shaped the modern skyline, from pioneering skyscrapers to contemporary masterpieces.

Delve into the myths and legends that have shaped Chicago's unique character, from the Great Fire to the Prohibition era. Whether you're admiring world-class art, exploring cutting-edge museums, or relaxing in vast urban parks, this tour offers a deep and nuanced understanding of Chicago's past, present, and future.
City: Chicago
Thu 05 Jun
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $9.00
Thu 05 Jun
Starting at $9.00
Make a reservation
What's Included
Private access links validity up to 6 days
Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for 15 attractions
Private access link to a tour itinerary map of 15 attractions with audio guide individually
Additional Info
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • 1. Receive Access Links: On your selected date of travel, before your starting time, you'll receive an email containing two important links for your audio guide.
  • 2. Audio Content (Link 1): Click on our secure SoundCloud web link to access the audio guides. You can listen to individual attraction guides or the entire tour to plan your visit. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the content before or during your tour.
  • 3. Interactive Map (Link 2): Use our secure Google My Maps link to locate all attractions on an interactive map. Each point on the map corresponds to a stop on the tour and links directly to its audio guide.
  • 4. Flexible Exploration: As you explore the city use the map to navigate between stops. At each location, simply click on the corresponding point to play the relevant audio guide.
  • 5. Plan Your Route: You can use both links to plan your route in advance, deciding which attractions you want to prioritize or if you want to follow the suggested order of the tour.
  • 6. Customer Support: If you have any questions about accessing or using the audio guide, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience
  • Remember, this self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace. Feel free to take breaks, spend more time at your favourite locations, or even split the tour across multiple days. The flexibility of our audio guide ensures you can tailor the experience to your preferences and schedule.
What To Expect
1
Union Station
Begin your journey at Chicago's historic transportation hub. Learn about its Beaux-Arts architecture and its role in the city's development as a major railway center.
2
Field Museum
Explore one of the world's largest natural history museums. Discover the story of Sue, the most complete T. Rex ever found, and learn about the museum's vast collection of artifacts from around the globe.
3
Clarence F. Buckingham Fountain
Marvel at one of the largest fountains in the world. Learn about its intricate design, inspired by the fountains at Versailles, and its significance in Grant Park.
4
The Art Institute of Chicago
Immerse yourself in one of the world's premier art museums. Discover famous works like American Gothic and learn about the museum's diverse collections spanning 5,000 years of human creativity.
5
Millennium Park
Explore Chicago's front yard, a modern urban park. Learn about its transformation from an industrial wasteland to a cutting-edge public space featuring contemporary art and architecture.
6
Cloud Gate
Experience Chicago's most famous public artwork, affectionately known as "The Bean." Discover the story behind its creation and why it has become an iconic symbol of the city.
7
Chicago Cultural Center
Step into the "People's Palace," once Chicago's first public library. Marvel at its Tiffany glass domes and learn about its transformation into a free cultural venue.
8
Chicago Riverwalk
Stroll along the Chicago River on this linear park. Learn about the river's role in the city's history and the architectural marvels that line its banks.
9
Navy Pier
Explore Chicago's lakefront playground. Discover its history from shipping pier to public recreation space and learn about its various attractions.
10
Richard H. Driehaus Museum
Step back in time in this Gilded Age mansion. Learn about its meticulous restoration and the story of Chicago's wealthy elite at the turn of the 20th century.
11
360 Chicago Observation Deck
Ascend to the top of the former John Hancock Center for panoramic views. Learn about Chicago's skyline and the engineering behind this iconic skyscraper.
12
Lincoln Park Zoo
Wander through one of the oldest zoos in North America. Discover its history, conservation efforts, and learn about its diverse animal inhabitants.
13
Chicago History Museum
Delve into the city's fascinating past. Explore exhibits on the Great Chicago Fire, the World's Columbian Exposition, and other pivotal moments in Chicago's history.
14
Newberry Library
Visit one of the world's leading independent research libraries. Learn about its vast collection of rare books and manuscripts, and its role in preserving Chicago's cultural heritage.
15
Museum of Science and Industry
Explore the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere. Discover interactive exhibits on topics ranging from trains to tornados, and learn about groundbreaking scientific innovations.
Show 12 more stops
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Traveler Photos
Reviews (8)
Elizabeth_D
Mar 2020
Very glad we took this tour! This was my second tour with Ranjith and we arrived at Croc Bank just as it opened and enjoyed seeing all the reptiles. We had the option of hiring a guide to the temples for 1700 rupees and it was well worth it to learn about the many deities and their reincarnations as well as the discovery of some of them after 2004 tsunami and restoration process. We were fortunate to visit one temple on the eve of a big celebration and see the preparations as well as receive a blessing. We overlooked the beach for lunch and the fresh seafood was perfect. We spent about 20 minutes shopping, no pressure, Would highly recommend this tour.
M417NRlindac
Jan 2020
My driver was very nice and kind. But I suppose, my own fault, not reading in the email after booking that he was not actually a guide. So I received no information from him about the trip. And I had to pay extra $25 US for a guide (I presume a friend who he called on the phone to meet us there), who was not with the tour company and spoke minimal English. I also had to ask my driver to take me to one of the sites I remembered seeing from the info online. Then when I returned back to my hotel I realized he had not taken me to 3 of the sites listed, including the museum, which I had heard was very interesting. I am very disappointed in this company. My tour lasted 5 1/2 hours (including a lunch spot - kind of him to let me stop for lunch I presume). Not 7 hours as advertised. I am not willing to get more frustrated, so I am not comparing the cost of the trip to what Uber or a taxi would charge. But essentially that is all it was. Although it was nice to not have to wait for a car. I am a woman on my own. I hate to think that a man would have gotten the full tour... I will be asking for a refund.
Response from Host
Dec 2024
🌟 Why Choose Our Audio Tour? 1.šŸ”’ Safe & Simple: Access guides via secure links. No downloads. Customize routes to match your interests. 2.šŸ’° Save & Select: Enjoy tours at great prices. Pick language. Choose must-see spots for a personal experience. 3.šŸ“– Stories & Soft Guidance: Immerse in authentic insights. Warm narration guides your journey of discovery. 4.ā±ļø Schedule & Self-Control: Explore on your terms. Anytime. Your tour, your rules - go your own way. šŸŽ What's Included: * Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for all mentioned tourist attractions * Private access link to a tour itinerary map of all mentioned tourist attractions with audio guide individually * Private access links are valid until your tour is complete (maximum 6 days) 🚫 What's excluded: * Entry fees (if required) * Transportation (pick-up and drop-off) * Audio devices (earphones and internet / Wi-Fi) * Food and drinks šŸ“ Starting / Meeting Point: Since this tour is a self-guided audio tour, you can decide your starting and ending points at your convenience. šŸ” How Our Self-Guided Audio Tour Works: 1. Receive Access Links: On your selected date of travel, before your starting time, you'll receive an email containing two important links for your audio guide. 2. Audio Content (Link 1): Click on our secure SoundCloud web link to access the audio guides. You can listen to individual attraction guides or the entire tour to plan your visit. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the content before or during your tour. 3. Interactive Map (Link 2): Use our secure Google My Maps link to locate all attractions on an interactive map. Each point on the map corresponds to a stop on the tour and links directly to its audio guide. 4. Flexible Exploration: As you explore the city use the map to navigate between stops. At each location, simply click on the corresponding point to play the relevant audio guide. 5. Plan Your Route: You can use both links to plan your route in advance, deciding which attractions you want to prioritize or if you want to follow the suggested order of the tour. 6. Customer Support: If you have any questions about accessing or using the audio guide, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience Remember, this self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace. Feel free to take breaks, spend more time at your favourite locations, or even split the tour across multiple days. The flexibility of our audio guide ensures you can tailor the experience to your preferences and schedule. 🧳 What to Bring: * Headphones/Earphones * Fully charged smartphone * Internet access āš ļø Important Information: * This purchase is non-refundable. * By completing your purchase, you agree to these terms.
Commonwealthtourers
Dec 2019
Our driver and escort arrived promptly and explained the tour thoroughly. Unfortunately because I had chosen Tuesday as a tour day, the heritage village was closed but we still managed to see everything else that was included on the tour. Ranjhit our driver arranged for a guide to meet us at Mahabalipuram who explained all the sites that we saw. The temples were awe inspiring and we had plenty of time available for questions and photographs, including the Krishna butterball. We also visited the madras crocodile bank Followed by a meal at a vegetarian cafe. Again Ranjhit was very helpful and courteous towards helping us British westerners to understand the local culture, we were made to feel very welcome and comfortable by everyone we met. It was truly an unforgettable and memorable day. We highly recommend this tour. Thank you, from Peter and Wendy.

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