Shopping tours in Chicago cut through the retail chaos with smart, curated experiences. The standout options include guided excursions through the historic Fulton Market district, where an innovative outdoor escape room format keeps things exciting while you shop. I particularly love the outlet mall tours – they’re practical and well-organized, with door-to-door service to Chicago Premium Outlets and Lighthouse Place Outlets.
For sweet-toothed travelers, the donut tour combines tasty treats with neighborhood exploration – it’s a fun way to discover local shops while satisfying your sugar cravings.
Check out these top Chicago shopping tours, listed from budget-friendly to luxurious:
Key Points
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The Private Shopping Tour to Chicago Premium Outlets offers a 4-hour experience with private transportation and the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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The Private Shopping Tour to Lighthouse Place Outlets provides a 4-hour roundtrip service from Chicago with a modern air-conditioned vehicle and a lowest price guarantee.
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The Fulton Market Donut Adventure is a 2-hour leisurely walking tour that includes tastings at top-rated donut shops, starting and ending at popular cafes.
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The Outdoor Escape Room Experience in Fulton Market, Chicago, is a self-guided 2-3 hour adventure with a 92% traveler recommendation and accessibility options.
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Booking tours in advance is recommended due to high demand, and it’s important to review cancellation policies and accessibility options to ensure a seamless experience.
Outdoor Escape Room in Chicago – Fulton Market
The Outdoor Escape Room in Chicago’s Fulton Market offers adventurous visitors a unique self-guided experience exploring the neighborhood’s hidden gems and iconic sites.
With a 92% traveler recommendation based on 13 reviews, this 2-3 hour adventure challenges participants to solve puzzles, uncover clues, and unlock a lockbox using scannable QR codes.
Bookings made at least a week in advance receive the game kit by mail, while last-minute visitors can pick it up at the North Morgan Street and West Lake Street meeting point.
The experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. Participants will start by scanning the QR code on the game box and end the activity back at the original meeting location.
Available from September 2023 to November 2025, the Outdoor Escape Room operates Monday from 8 AM to 12 PM and Tuesday through Sunday from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Priced at $75 per group of up to 6 people, the activity has an overall rating of 4.8 based on traveler reviews, though there are no refunds for cancellations.
Read our full review: Outdoor Escape Room in Chicago – Fulton Market Review
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Chicago: Fulton Market Donut Adventure With Tastings
This 2-hour Chicago: Fulton Market Donut Adventure with Tastings takes visitors on a delightful journey through the vibrant West Loop neighborhood, allowing them to sample some of the city’s top-rated donuts.
Priced at $68 per person, the tour starts at the iconic Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken and includes stops at Matcha-Cita cafe and Voodoo Donuts.
Along the way, the leisurely-paced 2-mile walk explores the area’s historical significance while the guide provides local recommendations.
Participants can expect to indulge in unique matcha-infused and creatively topped donuts.
The tour concludes at Sawada Coffee, renowned for its latte artistry.
Wheelchair-accessible and with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, this donut adventure is perfect for those looking to experience Chicago’s thriving food scene.
Early booking is recommended due to high demand.
Read our full review: Chicago: Fulton Market Donut Adventure With Tastings Review
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Private Shopping Tour From Chicago to Chicago Premium Outlets
Oftentimes, visitors to Chicago seek to explore the impressive shopping opportunities beyond the city limits. The Private Shopping Tour from Chicago to Chicago Premium Outlets offers a convenient solution.
This 4-hour private tour includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, modern air-conditioned transportation, and ample free time for shopping and dining at the Chicago Premium Outlets.
The tour is operated by taxiGo.online and is a private experience, ensuring your group’s exclusivity. The price starts from €414.00 per person, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Accessibility is limited, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though most travelers can participate.
Booking the tour is straightforward, as you can select your desired pickup point and time, with confirmation received upon booking.
On top of that, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility.
This private shopping tour offers a convenient and hassle-free way to explore the renowned Chicago Premium Outlets from the comfort of Chicago.
Read our full review: Private Shopping Tour From Chicago to Chicago Premium Outlets Review
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Private Shopping Tour From Chicago to Lighthouse Place Outlets
A private shopping tour from Chicago to the Lighthouse Place Outlets provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to explore the renowned shopping destination. Operated by taxiGo.online, this 4-hour tour offers a hassle-free experience with modern, air-conditioned private transportation.
The roundtrip service includes pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in Chicago, ensuring a private experience for your group. The tour is priced at $562.93 per person, with a lowest price guarantee. Flexible booking options are available, including free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
Guests can select a pickup time starting at 9:00 am and choose from various pickup points. The tour provides ample time for shopping and dining at the Lighthouse Place Outlets.
The private transportation guarantees that only your group will participate, allowing for a personalized and efficient shopping excursion. Whether you’re seeking a wide range of brands or a unique shopping experience, this tour is an excellent choice for visitors to Chicago.
Read our full review: Private Shopping Tour From Chicago to Lighthouse Place Outlets Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Times to Visit the Chicago Outlets?
The best times to visit the Chicago outlets are typically during the weekdays, when crowds are smaller and discounts are more readily available. Weekends can be busier, but may offer more variety in terms of sales and promotions.
How Can I Find the Most Unique Shopping Experiences in Chicago?
To find the most unique shopping experiences in Chicago, search for local boutiques, artisanal markets, and one-of-a-kind shops. Talk to locals for insider tips on hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path spots that offer rare, handmade, or specialty items you won’t find anywhere else.
What Are the Must-Visit Shops and Boutiques in Fulton Market?
Fulton Market is a hub for unique shops and boutiques. Must-visit spots include the artisanal goods at Dose Market, the eclectic finds at Randolph Street Market, and the vintage clothing and accessories at Kokorokoko. Shoppers can find one-of-a-kind items throughout this vibrant neighborhood.
Are There Any Special Events or Sales at the Chicago Outlets?
The Chicago outlets often host special seasonal sales and events, like Black Friday and holiday shopping extravaganzas. Visitors can find discounted designer brands and enjoy special activities like fashion shows and giveaways during these promotional periods.
What Is the Average Cost of a Private Shopping Tour in Chicago?
The average cost of a private shopping tour in Chicago ranges from $50 to $150 per person, depending on the size of the group, the duration, and the specific retailers included. Many tour companies offer discounts for larger groups.
Recap
Chicago offers a variety of exciting shopping tour options. Travelers can explore the Fulton Market district, sample delicious donuts, and visit premier outlet malls. Whether seeking an outdoor adventure, tasty treats, or discounted designer goods, these tours provide a fun and efficient way to experience the city’s vibrant shopping scene. With so many choices, there’s something for every type of shopper in the Windy City.