Explore the vibrant heart of Chicago on the "Best of Attractions Walking Tour." This 2-hour journey showcases the city’s iconic sites, from the grandeur of the Chicago Theater to the urban oasis of Millennium Park. With expert local guides providing engaging commentary, you’ll uncover the city’s captivating history. But the adventure doesn’t end there – complement your walking tour with complimentary 2-hour bike or kayak rentals, allowing you to discover Chicago’s scenic waterways and neighborhoods from a unique perspective. Enjoy the dynamic energy of this remarkable city, and prepare to be captivated by the diverse experiences that await.
Key Points
- Offers a 2-hour walking tour showcasing Chicago’s iconic sites like the Chicago Theater, Millennium Park, and Magnificent Mile.
- Provides complimentary 2-hour bike or kayak rentals to explore the city’s scenic waterways and neighborhoods.
- Tour is wheelchair accessible and has a flexible format to adapt to weather conditions.
- Knowledgeable local guides offer insightful commentary on Chicago’s history and culture.
- Highly rated by customers for its value, engaging experience, and quality of the tour guide.
Tour Overview
This Chicago attractions walking tour is a 2-hour excursion that covers some of the city’s most iconic sites. Priced at $44.99 per person, the tour is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible.
Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. During the tour, you’ll visit landmarks like the Chicago Theater, Millennium Park, and the Magnificent Mile, while gaining insights into the city’s history from a knowledgeable local guide.
The experience adapts to the weather, exploring either the underground Pedway or street level, ensuring an engaging and comfortable tour.
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Highlights of the Tour
The tour highlights a carefully curated selection of Chicago’s most iconic sites.
Visitors will venture to the beloved Chicago Theater, marvel at the Cloud Gate sculpture in Millennium Park, and stroll along the bustling Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue.
Throughout the experience, an expert local guide provides insightful commentary on the city’s rich history and cultural significance.
The tour also takes participants through the city’s underground Pedway system during colder months, offering a unique perspective on Chicago’s infrastructure.
With a mix of must-see landmarks and hidden gems, this walking tour promises an engaging and well-rounded introduction to the Windy City.
Complimentary Rentals
As an added bonus, the tour offers complimentary 2-hour bike or kayak rentals to be used within three days of booking the tour.
The bike rentals are available year-round at Bobby’s Bike Hike, located at 540 N. Lake Shore Drive.
Kayak rentals, on the other hand, are only available from mid-May to mid-October at Ohio Street Beach, 550 E. Grand Avenue.
It’s important to note that kayaking is only possible during the summer months, from June to September.
These rentals provide a unique opportunity for participants to explore Chicago’s scenic waterways or cycle through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.
Bike Rental Details
One of the complimentary rental options for the Chicago walking tour is bicycles, available year-round at Bobby’s Bike Hike, located at 540 N. Lake Shore Drive.
Guests can choose to use the bike rental within +/- 3 days of booking the tour. The bike rental provides a great opportunity to explore the city at a leisurely pace and cover more ground than the walking tour alone.
Here are three key details about the bike rental:
- Bikes are available for 2-hour usage during the rental period.
- Rental is included free of charge with the purchase of the walking tour.
- Guests must check in 15 minutes early and meet the guide, who’ll be wearing a Bobby’s Bike Hike polo shirt and holding a branded paddle.
Kayak Rental Details
Another complimentary rental option for the Chicago walking tour is kayaks, available mid-May to mid-October at Ohio Street Beach, located at 550 E. Grand Avenue.
Kayaking is only offered during the summer months, from June through September. Participants can enjoy a free 2-hour kayak rental to be used within 3 days of booking the walking tour.
This provides an excellent opportunity to explore the scenic Chicago Riverwalk from a unique water-based perspective. The kayak rental is part of the overall tour package, offering a well-rounded experience to discover the city’s top attractions both on foot and on the water.
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Participant Arrival Information
Participants should arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled tour start time. The tour guide will be wearing a Bobby’s Bike Hike polo shirt and holding a branded paddle to identify themselves.
Participants should come prepared with the following:
- Camera to capture the iconic sights.
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour.
- Gratuity for the guide, typically 15-20% of the tour cost, to show appreciation for their knowledge and expertise.
Following these guidelines will ensure a seamless start to the "Chicago: Best of Attractions Walking Tour + Bike/Kayak Rental" experience.
What to Bring and Gratuity
Visitors should bring a camera to capture the iconic sights they’ll see during the tour.
A reusable water bottle is also recommended, as the walking portion can be quite active.
The tour guide will be wearing a Bobby’s Bike Hike polo shirt and holding a branded paddle, making it easy to identify them at the meeting point.
While gratuity isn’t included in the tour price, a tip of 15-20% for the guide is suggested, as they provide valuable insights and ensure a memorable experience throughout the tour.
Customer Reviews
According to the tour’s customer reviews, guests have overwhelmingly positive experiences.
The tour guide is consistently described as knowledgeable, energetic, and entertaining, providing insightful commentary on Chicago’s history. Participants appreciate learning about the city’s iconic sites, including the Chicago Theater, Millennium Park, and the Magnificent Mile.
The value for money is also highly rated, with a 4.5/5 score indicating strong satisfaction with the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Bike or Kayak Instead?
You can bring your own bike or kayak, but the tour doesn’t include this option. The free rental is part of the tour package, so using your own equipment wouldn’t be covered.
Will the Tour Guide Provide Commentary During the Bike/Kayak Rental?
The tour guide will not provide commentary during the bike or kayak rental. The rental portion is self-guided, allowing participants to explore the city at their own pace without a guided tour. The walking tour, however, does include a knowledgeable guide providing insights about Chicago’s attractions.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?
There’s no minimum group size required for this tour. The walking tour portion is led by a local expert guide, while the bike or kayak rental can be enjoyed individually or with friends at the customer’s convenience.
Can I Extend the Rental Time Beyond the Included 2 Hours?
The tour includes a complimentary 2-hour bike or kayak rental, but customers can extend the rental time beyond the included period. Additional rental fees may apply for extended usage, which can be paid directly to the rental provider.
Is There Storage Available for Personal Belongings During the Bike/Kayak Rental?
Yes, there’s storage available for personal belongings during the bike or kayak rental. Customers can leave their belongings in secure lockers or storage areas provided by the rental companies.
Recap
The "Best of Attractions Walking Tour" in Chicago offers an engaging and diverse experience. Visitors can explore the city’s iconic landmarks, enjoy complimentary bike or kayak rentals, and gain unique perspectives on the Windy City. With knowledgeable guides, convenient logistics, and positive customer reviews, this tour is an excellent way to discover the vibrant essence of Chicago.
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