Movie Tour Through Chicagos Union Station

Discover the captivating cinematic history of Chicago’s iconic Union Station on this immersive 90-minute guided walking tour. Led by a knowledgeable Ph.D. guide, participants explore the station’s Beaux-Arts architecture and uncover its starring role in famous Hollywood films. From iconic movie scenes to behind-the-scenes access, this tour promises an engaging and informative journey through one of the city’s most significant landmarks. Whether you’re a film buff or architecture enthusiast, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Union Station’s past and present.

Key Points

1. The tour provides a 90-minute guided walking experience highlighting Union Station’s architectural significance, movie and TV locations, and typically off-limits spaces.

2. Participants can explore the station’s Beaux-Arts design features, including the soaring Grand Hall and monumental staircase, gaining deeper appreciation for this historic landmark.

3. The tour connects the station’s past and present, delving into its Hollywood history and appearances in classic films like "The Untouchables" and "Batman v Superman."

4. The experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though navigating stairs is required, making it unsuitable for travelers with certain medical conditions.

5. The tour offers a personalized small-group experience led by a passionate Ph.D. guide using visual and audio media to enhance the exploration.

Tour Overview and Details

What does this 90-minute guided walking tour of Chicago’s Union Station entail?

Travelers will explore movie and TV locations, access typically off-limits spaces, and learn about the station’s architectural significance.

A passionate Ph.D. guide leads this small group experience, utilizing visual and audio media to enhance the tour.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though it requires navigating stairs.

It begins at the Jackson Boulevard entrance and ends at 225 S Canal St.

Participants must sign a liability waiver, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior.

Historical and Architectural Insights

While on the tour, guests gain insights into Union Station’s rich Hollywood history. The guide discusses how the iconic building has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, from classic movies like "The Untouchables" to modern hits like "Batman v Superman." Guests also learn about the station’s architectural design and historical significance, including:

Architectural Feature	Historical Significance
Soaring Grand Hall	Inspired by classical Roman design
Barrel-Vaulted Ceilings	Showcase Beaux-Arts style
Monumental Staircase	Impressive entry point for travelers

These insights bring the station’s past and present to life, providing a deeper appreciation for this Chicago landmark.

Accessibility and Participation

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.

However, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions, as guests must navigate two sets of stairs. Escalators and elevators are available in some areas, but the tour involves a fair amount of walking.

Participants should be prepared to navigate the historic station’s stairs and corridors. Guests must also initial a digital general waiver of liability, and guardians must sign for children under 18.

The small group size ensures a personalized experience, with a maximum of 6 travelers per tour.

Meeting and Ending Points

The tour meets at the Union Station Jackson Boulevard Entrance, located at the West Loop Gate in Chicago, IL 60606.

Guests gather just inside the Jackson St. entrance, next to the Corner Bakery.

The tour takes travelers through the historic station, exploring its Hollywood connections.

At the end, the group arrives at 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606.

This location provides easy access to explore the station’s other areas or continue one’s Chicago adventure after the tour.

The meeting and ending points are conveniently situated, allowing participants to fully enjoy the tour experience.

Booking Information and Policies

Guests receive confirmation at the time of booking. They must initial a digital general waiver of liability, and guardians must sign for children under 18.

The tour offers a lowest price guarantee, starting at £32.33 per person. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience begins. Guests also have the option to reserve now and pay later.

With these policies, the tour provides flexibility and ensures a seamless booking process for travelers interested in exploring the cinematic history of Chicago’s iconic Union Station.

Highlights From the Tour

What can guests expect to discover on this captivating movie tour through Chicago’s iconic Union Station? The tour provides exclusive behind-the-scenes access, allowing visitors to explore the station’s rich cinematic history.

Highlights include:

1. Guided access to off-limits spaces used as filming locations in movies and TV shows.
2. Insights into the station’s architectural design and historical significance.
3. Visual and audio media that enhance the immersive experience.
4. A passionate PhD guide who shares fascinating stories about Union Station’s Hollywood connections.

With a small group size and personalized attention, this tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the cinematic magic hidden within Chicago’s grand transportation hub.

Behind-the-Scenes Experiences

Beyond the public areas, this captivating tour takes guests on an exclusive behind-the-scenes journey through Union Station.

Visitors get access to off-limits spaces, like the employee cafeteria and the expansive network of tunnels beneath the building.

The tour guide, an expert with a Ph.D., shares insights into the station’s history and Hollywood legacy.

Guests marvel at the intricate architecture, including the grand waiting room and ornate stairways.

Through engaging multimedia presentations, the tour brings the station’s cinematic moments to life.

This intimate, small-group experience offers a unique glimpse into the hidden wonders of this iconic Chicago landmark.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for the tour. Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor spaces and weather conditions may vary.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, guests can take photos during the tour. The tour encourages visitors to capture the architectural details and movie locations, allowing them to document their experience at Chicago’s historic Union Station.

Are Refreshments Provided on the Tour?

No, refreshments are not provided on the tour. Guests are responsible for bringing their own food and drinks. The tour focuses on exploring the architectural and historical details of Union Station without any catered refreshments.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, though it’s not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions. Children under 18 must have a guardian sign a liability waiver.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

The tour doesn’t offer a private option, but it has a small group size of up to 6 travelers for a more personalized experience. Guests can reserve the tour in advance and take advantage of the lowest price guarantee.

The Sum Up

The "Movie Tour Through Chicago’s Union Station" offers a captivating glimpse into the station’s cinematic past and architectural splendor. Led by a knowledgeable Ph.D. guide, the tour provides an engaging journey through one of Chicago’s most significant landmarks, highlighting its iconic film locations and typically off-limits areas. With a small group size, this tour promises a personalized experience for those seeking to uncover the hidden Hollywood history and stunning Beaux-Arts design of Union Station.