Walking Tour: Historic Chicago Pubs in River North and the Loop

Uncovering the vibrant past of Chicago’s pub culture can be an exhilarating experience. This walking tour through the River North and Loop neighborhoods promises to whisk visitors away on a captivating journey, guided by a knowledgeable local expert. From architectural gems to cozy watering holes, the tour offers an immersive glimpse into the city’s rich history and enduring traditions. With transit tickets and gratuities included, participants can dive headfirst into engaging stories and local flavors, making for an unforgettable afternoon adventure.

Key Points

• The tour explores historic pubs in the River North and Loop neighborhoods of Chicago, providing insights into the city’s rich pub culture.
• The 4-hour walking tour is priced at $65 per person and has a maximum group size of 10 travelers aged 21 and above.
• Highlights include the Marquette Building, Old Dearborn Publishing Building, Berghoff Restaurant, and Monks Pub, with transit tickets and gratuities included.
• The tour is led by a local expert guide and requires a moderate fitness level, not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
• The tour has received exceptional 5.0 ratings based on multiple reviews, with guests praising the knowledgeable guide and informative experience.

Tour Overview

The walking tour of historic Chicago pubs takes visitors through the River North and Loop neighborhoods, providing an immersive experience into the city’s rich pub culture.

Priced at $65 per person, the tour has a maximum group size of 10 travelers, aged 21 and over. Departing from the Marquette Building, the afternoon-long tour explores four different pubs, including Monks Pub, while highlighting local landmarks like the Marquette Building.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour includes transit tickets and gratuities, but excludes the cost of alcoholic beverages. Guests with certain medical conditions may find the tour challenging due to the moderate fitness level required.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins at the Marquette Building in downtown Chicago, where participants gather at 4:00 PM. From there, the group sets out to explore the Loop and River North neighborhoods, visiting four historic pubs along the way.

Landmark	Highlight
Marquette Building	Architectural gem with intricate lobby
Old Dearborn Publishing Building	Art deco style office building
Berghoff Restaurant	Longstanding German-American restaurant
Monks Pub	Final stop, offers cozy ambiance
Chicago’s Iconic Pub Culture	Learn about the city’s rich history

The tour provides an engaging mix of architecture, history, and local stories, offering a unique glimpse into Chicago’s vibrant pub culture.

Tour Features

This walking tour includes several features that enhance the experience for participants. It provides transit tickets, ensuring convenient travel between the various pubs.

The local expert guide offers in-depth knowledge of Chicago’s history and pub culture, enriching the tour with engaging stories and insights. Gratuities are included, removing the need for additional out-of-pocket expenses.

While alcohol isn’t covered, participants can enjoy drinks at their own expense, allowing them to explore the unique offerings of each pub.

The tour’s accessibility is limited, as it isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or mobility issues.

Accessibility and Health Information

While the tour offers a unique and engaging exploration of Chicago’s pub culture, it’s important to consider the accessibility and health requirements for participants.

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, heart issues, or other serious medical conditions. Participants should be able to maintain a moderate fitness level and climb stairs, as not all train stations have elevators.

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. However, the tour is located near public transportation options, making it accessible to those able to navigate the city’s transit system.

Customer Feedback

Guests enjoyed a mix of architecture, history, and local stories, with a focus on Chicago’s pub culture. Positive feedback highlighted the knowledgeable and engaging guide, Tom, who provided informative materials and photos to enhance the experience. The tour received an exceptional 5.0 rating based on 8 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor.

Positive	Neutral	Negative
Knowledgeable guide	Moderate fitness required	None reported
Informative materials	Not wheelchair accessible
Engaging experience	Near public transport
Focus on pub culture	–
5.0 rating	–

The Marquette Building

The Marquette Building, a stunning architectural masterpiece, serves as the meeting point for this walking tour. Built in 1895, the building’s Romanesque Revival style is a testament to Chicago’s rich history.

With intricate terracotta detailing and grand arched windows, the Marquette Building’s exterior sets the tone for the tour’s exploration of the city’s historic pubs. As guests gather, the guide provides insights into the building’s significance, highlighting its role as a hub for commerce and cultural exchange in the late 19th century.

From this iconic starting point, the tour embarks on a journey through Chicago’s vibrant pub scene and its connection to the city’s past.

Famous River North Pubs

From the historic Marquette Building, the walking tour heads into the vibrant River North neighborhood, known for its array of famous pubs steeped in Chicago’s rich cultural heritage.

Guests explore the charming watering holes that have hosted notable figures throughout the city’s history. Stops include the Old Town Ale House, a beloved local haunt frequented by politicians and artists.

The tour also ventures to Monks Pub, renowned for its impressive selection of craft beers. Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares captivating tales about the pubs’ past and their influence on Chicago’s social and economic development.

Exploring the Loop

After exploring the vibrant River North neighborhood, the tour heads into the iconic Loop district, where guests explore the rich history and iconic landmarks that have shaped Chicago’s cultural fabric.

The walking route includes the Marquette Building, a historic skyscraper noted for its intricate terracotta exterior and impressive lobby.

As the group moves through the loop, they uncover stories behind the city’s architectural masterpieces and long-standing pubs, gaining insights into how Chicago’s past continues to influence its present-day identity.

The tour culminates at Monks Pub, a quintessential Chicago watering hole in the heart of the Loop.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Beer Are Served at the Pubs?

The pubs serve a variety of beers, including local craft brews and classic American beer styles. Guests can expect to sample an assortment of ales, lagers, and stouts as they explore Chicago’s historic pub culture during the tour.

How Late Do the Pubs Stay Open on the Tour?

The pubs typically stay open late, with most serving drinks until at least midnight. However, the tour ends in the early evening, so participants are free to continue exploring the pubs independently after the guided portion concludes.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Dietary Restrictions?

The tour company can accommodate dietary restrictions, though guests will need to provide advanced notice. They’ll work to ensure participants with special dietary needs can enjoy the pub experience fully.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

The tour allows photography, as the guide encourages guests to capture the historic architecture and pub settings. However, guests should be mindful of any photography restrictions at the individual establishments visited during the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention discounts for seniors or students. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider directly as they may offer discounted pricing for certain age groups or student status.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Chicago’s vibrant pub culture on this captivating walking tour. Explore historic neighborhoods, discover architectural gems, and enjoy the cozy ambiance of famous River North and Loop pubs. With transit tickets and gratuities included, this afternoon adventure offers an unforgettable experience guided by a knowledgeable local expert.