Walking Tour: Underground Chicago via the Pedway

Explore Chicago’s Underground Pedway and Iconic Landmarks with a Guided Tour

For those curious about Chicago’s lesser-known city features, the Walking Tour: Underground Chicago via the Pedway offers a compelling journey below street level. Priced at $65 per person and lasting approximately 3 hours, this tour combines underground walkways with above-ground sights, providing a unique perspective on the city’s architecture and history. The tour departs from the Swissotel Chicago and is ideal for visitors who enjoy walking, architecture, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the small-group size of up to 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience. The tour features transit fare included and a ride on the L train through the Loop, making it both practical and immersive. With 21 reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, this experience has earned high praise for its knowledgeable guides and fascinating stops.

However, participants should be prepared for some stair climbing, as not all train stations are equipped with elevators. The tour is well-suited for those with moderate physical fitness, and it tends to be booked about 21 days in advance. For anyone interested in Chicago’s architecture, art, and underground passageways, this tour offers a compact yet rich exploration.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $65 per person for approximately 3 hours of guided walking.
• Unique Focus: Combines exploration of Chicago’s Pedway system with visits to landmarks like Millennium Park and Route 66.
• Inclusive Transport: Transit tickets and a ride on the L train are included.
• Expert Guides: The tour features local guides with in-depth knowledge and engaging storytelling.
• Landmark Highlights: Stops include Chicago Cultural Center, Macy’s Walnut Room, Daley Bicentennial Plaza, and Cloud Gate.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 10 travelers for a more personal experience.

Starting Point and Meeting Details in Downtown Chicago

The tour begins at Swissotel Chicago, located at 323 W Wacker Dr. Meeting in the hotel lobby, participants are ready to descend into the Chicago Pedway and explore underground corridors. The tour concludes at Millennium Park, specifically at the Cloud Gate sculpture (The Bean), offering a convenient downtown finish near public transportation.

The 10:00 am start time provides a full morning of sightseeing, making it a good option for those wanting to maximize their day. The meeting point is near public transportation, simplifying access for travelers arriving via Chicago’s transit system. The tour’s moderate physical activity level means it’s accessible to most, but climbing stairs is necessary at some points.

Walking the Chicago Pedway System

The core of the tour involves walking through Chicago’s underground tunnel network, known as the Pedway. The guide leads the group through several sections, navigating underground and above-ground transitions, which can be quite surprising given how unnoticeable these passages are from street level.

Walking through the Pedway, visitors see artistic and architectural features like the famous Tiffany Dome at the Chicago Cultural Center. The architecture and artwork are frequent highlights, and guides often share stories about the buildings’ history and design. The walk also includes stopping at Block 37, a popular shopping mall within the Pedway, making it a blend of urban exploration and retail.

The underground walkways connect to top landmarks such as Macy’s on State Street, where visitors can admire the Tiffany dome and The Great Tree in the Walnut Room. This part of the tour showcases Chicago’s retail history and festive holiday decorations, especially if the visit coincides with the holiday season.

Visiting the Chicago Cultural Center and Tiffany Dome

A key highlight of the tour is the Chicago Cultural Center, home to the world-famous Tiffany Dome. This stunning glasswork covers the ceiling and is widely regarded as a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The guide explains its significance and shares details about the building’s architecture.

Beyond the Tiffany Dome, the Cultural Center offers glimpses into Chicago’s cultural scene, making it a peaceful yet visually impressive stop. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to see this architectural gem, which is free to enter, and often take photos of its intricate stained glass.

Exploring Macy’s Walnut Room and the Great Tree

Next, the tour visits Macy’s on State Street, historically known as Marshall Field’s. The Walnut Room features an impressive Tiffany dome similar to the one at the Cultural Center. Visitors are encouraged to marvel at the architecture, especially the Great Tree, a massive holiday decoration that adds festivity to the shopping experience.

The Macy’s stop blends shopping, architecture, and holiday cheer, especially when the Great Tree is on display. The festively decorated windows are also part of the experience, making this a lively and colorful component of the tour.

Strolling Through Block 37 and Daley Bicentennial Plaza

Continuing through the Pedway, the group moves into Block 37, a bustling shopping and entertainment complex. The pedestrian walkway here offers a modern contrast to earlier historic stops, highlighting Chicago’s contemporary urban design.

After emerging from the Pedway, visitors reach Daley Bicentennial Plaza, where they see the iconic Picasso sculpture. This outdoor space hosts the Christkindlmarket, an authentic holiday market that features European-style stalls and festive foods. This stop is particularly lively during the holiday season, offering a fun break and photo opportunities.

Visiting Chicago City Hall and the Loop on the L Train

The tour then stops at Chicago’s City Hall, where the group views the historic City of Chicago and County Buildings. The guide shares insights into Chicago’s civic architecture and local government history. If timing permits, there’s a chance to see a wedding at the Marriage Court, a fun local detail.

Next, the guide arranges a quick ride on the L train through the Loop, providing a different vantage point of the city’s downtown. This part of the tour is included in the price and offers a practical look at Chicago’s transit system.

Route 66 and Millennium Park Highlights

The journey continues to the origin and terminus of Route 66, where travelers see the historic marker. The tour also visits the Art Institute of Chicago to view the majestic lions guarding the museum.

The final stop is Millennium Park, home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, known as The Bean. Here, the group can admire the Christmas tree and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The 20-minute stop allows for photos and soaking in the city’s holiday spirit.

Practical Tips and Accessibility Notes

Participants should be prepared to climb stairs, as not all transit stations are equipped with elevators. The tour’s pacing suits those with moderate physical fitness; it involves walking, some stairs, and standing during stops. The small-group size ensures plenty of personalized attention from the guide, making it suitable for visitors who appreciate a more intimate experience.

Since the tour includes transit tickets, it offers a seamless experience from underground walkways to above-ground sights. The meeting point at the Swissotel makes it easy to access via public transit, and the tour concludes conveniently near Millennium Park.

Final Thoughts on the Underground Chicago Pedway Tour

This guided walking tour offers a unique perspective on Chicago, combining underground passageways with key landmarks. It’s especially appealing for those interested in architecture, history, and city secrets. The expert guides, praised for their knowledge and storytelling, enhance the experience, making each stop informative and engaging.

While the tour covers a lot in three hours, it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and stairs. The inclusion of transit fare and a ride on the L train adds practical value, and the small-group format ensures a personalized atmosphere. If you want to see Chicago from a different angle—inside its underground corridors and alongside its iconic public spaces—this tour delivers a memorable and well-rounded experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $65 per person ticket includes transit tickets, a guided walking tour, and a ride on the L train through the Loop.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending at Millennium Park.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Swissotel Chicago, Chicago Pedway, Chicago Cultural Center, Macy’s Walnut Room, Block 37, Daley Bicentennial Plaza, City Hall, a ride on the L train, the Route 66 marker, and Cloud Gate in Millennium Park.

Is this tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
It is designed for those with moderate physical fitness; participants should be able to climb stairs and walk for extended periods.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It begins at Swissotel Chicago and ends at Cloud Gate in Millennium Park.

Are food and beverages included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Who provides this tour?
The experience is led by L Stop Tours with a focus on local expertise and engaging storytelling.

Is the tour suitable during holiday seasons?
Yes, stops like Daley Bicentennial Plaza and Millennium Park feature holiday markets and decorations, making it especially festive.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of underground Pedway exploration, famous landmarks, local insights, and small-group intimacy makes this a distinctive way to see Chicago.