Chicago Hauntings Original Ghost Bus Tour

Explore Chicago’s Dark Recesses with the Ghost Bus Tour

The Chicago Hauntings Original Ghost Bus Tour offers a 3-hour journey into the city’s most haunted spots, priced at $59 per person. This tour is ideal for fans of paranormal tales, true crime, and history lovers eager to explore Chicago’s mysterious side without walking in the dark.

Departing from the Congress Plaza Hotel, the tour takes you on a luxurious bus with up to 50 participants, guided by knowledgeable storytellers who bring dark Chicago stories to life. The tour is praised for its informative guides, engaging stops, and interactive ghost-hunting experiences, making it a standout choice for those curious about the city’s haunted past.

While the tour covers many famous sites and offers a good value for the price, some reviews suggest that adding more time at each stop could improve the experience. Still, it remains a popular option for anyone interested in Chicago’s ghostly legends and mob history.

Key Points

• Duration and Price: Approximately 3 hours for $59, book 20 days in advance on average.
• Stops Include: The Jane Addams Hull-House, Chicago City Cemetery, Lincoln Park, and St. Valentine’s Day Massacre site.
• Guides: Known for being knowledgeable, engaging, and informative, with some offering interactive ghost-hunting tools.
• Comfort and Convenience: Travel comfortably on a luxury bus with multiple stops and no walking in the dark.
• Notable Stops: The Couch Mausoleum, Biograph Theatre, and the S.S. Eastland Memorial.
• Family Friendly: Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult; the tour is suitable for most travelers.

Starting Point and Logistics at the Congress Plaza Hotel

The tour begins outside the Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center, located at 520 S Michigan Ave. This central Chicago location is easily accessible via public transportation, and the bus departs promptly for the haunted adventure. The meeting and ending point is the same, offering convenience for travelers.

The mobile ticket system makes it simple to access your booking, while cancellation is free if canceled 24 hours in advance. This flexibility makes it easier to plan your spooky Chicago night.

Visiting Chicago’s Spookiest Sites from the Bus

The itinerary includes stops at some of Chicago’s most infamous and eerie locations, each with its own haunting story:

• Jane Addams Hull-House Museum: Known for its Devil Baby legend, this site offers a glimpse into Chicago’s social history with a spooky twist.
• Chicago City Cemetery: An abandoned graveyard with 13,000 unmarked graves, where the ghostly presence is often rumored.
• Lincoln Park: The site of 10,000 abandoned graves under the park, raising questions about the spirits that might still linger.
• Couch Mausoleum: A historic Chicago landmark with stories of eerie happenings and unknown burials.
• Chicago History Museum: Some claim to see a ghost around Abraham Lincoln’s bed here.
• Bridge over South Pond: Known as Chicago’s most famous “suicide bridge”, adding to the area’s dark reputation.
• Site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre: Located at 2122 N Clark St, this notorious mob hit remains one of the city’s most chilling stories.
• Lincoln Park Zoo: With the old City Cemetery underneath, some believe ghostly sightings are common.
• Biograph Theatre: The death site of John Dillinger, which still attracts those interested in gangster ghost stories.
• S.S. Eastland Memorial: A boat tragedy that claimed hundreds of lives, with reports of spirits still present.
• James M. Nederlander Theatre: The scene of America’s worst theater fire, earning it the nickname “Death Alley” for its haunted reputation.

The Guide’s Role in Creating a Spooky Atmosphere

The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills. They provide chilling commentary throughout the tour, blending historical facts with ghostly legends. Some guides even make the experience more interactive by allowing guests to use ghost-hunting tools, making the tour not just informative but also fun and slightly eerie.

The guides’ ability to explain the dark history without exaggerated theatrics keeps the experience engaging and credible. Many reviews highlight Tony and Sadie for their entertaining and well-informed presentations.

Comfort and Accessibility on the Bus

The tour’s luxurious coach bus comfortably accommodates up to 50 passengers, with public transportation nearby for easy access. The bus stops frequently, with short walks at key sites, making it suitable for most travelers with moderate mobility.

The group size keeps the experience intimate enough for everyone to hear the guide clearly, but large enough for a lively atmosphere.

Interactive Ghost-Hunting and Themed Experiences

One of the tour’s standout features is the opportunity for interactive ghost-hunting, where guests can use EMF meters and other equipment to try and detect spirits firsthand. This element adds a hands-on dimension to the tour, making it more memorable for those fascinated by paranormal investigations.

The use of ghost-hunting tools and storytelling combine to create an experience that appeals to horror movie fans and true crime enthusiasts alike.

Tour Reviews and Ratings

The average rating of 3.7 out of 5 based on 139 reviews reflects a generally positive reputation. Many reviewers praise the guides’ knowledge, the interesting sites, and the overall value. The luxury bus and multiple stops earn high marks for comfort and convenience.

However, some reviews note that more time at each location could enhance the experience, and a few had issues with missed pickups due to external protests or communication hiccups. Still, most feedback is enthusiastic, with many calling it a “great night”, “highly recommend”, and “an absolute must for fans of the paranormal.”

Final Thoughts on the Chicago Hauntings Ghost Bus Tour

The Chicago Hauntings Original Ghost Bus Tour presents a well-rounded ghostly adventure packed with fascinating sites and stories. Its 3-hour format offers a convenient way to explore the city’s haunted history without extensive walking. The knowledgeable guides and interactive elements make it engaging and fun, especially for those interested in Chicago’s mob past and dark tales.

While some might wish for more time at stops or a bit more theatrical flair, this tour remains a trusted choice for paranormal enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The price is fair, and the free cancellation policy adds peace of mind. This ghost bus tour delivers a memorable look into Chicago’s darkest secrets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for most family groups.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 hours.

What locations are included in the stops?
Stops include the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum, Chicago City Cemetery, Lincoln Park, Biograph Theatre, and the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre.

Is there any walking involved?
Yes, there are short walks at certain stops like the Cemetery and Lincoln Park.

Can I use ghost-hunting equipment?
Yes, some guides facilitate interactive ghost-hunting experiences, allowing guests to use EMF meters and other tools.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center.

How do I cancel this tour?
Cancellation is free if done 24 hours in advance; refunds are processed accordingly.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While not explicitly specified, the luxurious coach bus and short stops suggest it is generally accessible for most travelers.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Guides are highly praised for being knowledgeable, engaging, and professional.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Most travelers book about 20 days in advance, but last-minute bookings may be possible depending on availability.

Is this tour worth the cost?
Based on reviews and features, the $59 price offers good value, especially with interactive elements and famous Chicago sites.