Big Bus Chicago: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Bus

The Big Bus Chicago: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Bus offers an accessible way to explore the city’s most famous attractions for $52.20 per person. This approximately 2-hour full circuit provides a flexible, self-paced sightseeing experience that appeals especially to first-time visitors and those with limited time. You can choose between 24-, 48-, or 72-hour passes, allowing you to hop off at key locations like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute, then reboard at your convenience. The tour features multiple stops along the route, with buses departing roughly every 30-45 minutes, making it easy to plan your day around your favorite sights.

While the open-top design provides unobstructed views, some reviews highlight that crowding and driver behavior can impact the experience. Nevertheless, the tour’s audio commentary in English and Spanish enhances the sightseeing, and the free Big Bus app adds useful maps, live bus tracking, and digital walking tours. Perfect for those wanting a convenient and flexible way to see Chicago’s highlights, this tour combines scenic views, educational commentary, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Key Points

• Flexible 24-, 48-, or 72-hour passes offer extensive sightseeing options.
• Strategically located stops include Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute.
• The open-top bus provides unobstructed views of Chicago’s skyline.
• Audio commentary enhances understanding of the city’s sights and history.
• Buses depart every 30-45 minutes, with live tracking via the free app.
• Some reviews note crowding and driver inconsistency as potential downsides.

How the Tour Starts and How to Hop On

The tour begins at Stop #1: Riverwalk at 98 E. Wacker Drive, where you can redeem your mobile ticket by showing it on your phone. Buses run from 10 am to 5 pm, with multiple stops along the route. You can board or disembark at any of the 11 designated stops, including popular locations like the Skydeck Chicago, Millennium Park, and Navy Pier. The full loop takes about two hours if you stay onboard without getting off, but the main advantage is the ability to hop on and off as you wish.

The app provides route maps, stop locations, and live bus tracking, helping you plan your day. The digital tickets are redeemable at any stop, and the self-guided digital walking tours are available as optional extras, allowing you to explore topics like Chicago architecture, public art, and Millennium Park more deeply.

The Route: To Chicago’s Top Attractions

The route includes 11 stops, each offering access to well-known sights. The first is Riverwalk, crossing from Trump Tower, giving a scenic introduction to the city’s waterways. The next stop is the Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower, where panoramic views of the city await. Millennium Park and the Art Institute are included, providing a chance to see Chicago’s iconic public art and world-class museum collections.

Further stops include Grant Park, home to Buckingham Fountain, and the Adler Planetarium, offering a chance to learn about the stars. The Field Museum of Natural History sits on the Museum Campus, perfect for a quick cultural fix. The Chicago Architecture Center offers insights into the city’s famous skyline, while the Navy Pier provides entertainment, dining, and scenic views of Lake Michigan. The Magnificent Mile is renowned for shopping and historic landmarks, and 360 Chicago at the John Hancock Center completes the route with stunning cityscape vistas.

What Makes Each Stop Special

Riverwalk provides a relaxing start with views of Chicago’s waterfront. Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower is famous for its glass-floored ledge, perfect for thrill-seekers. Millennium Park features Cloud Gate (the Bean), a must-see sculpture that’s perfect for photos, while Grant Park offers open green space for picnics or leisurely walks.

The Adler Planetarium is ideal for science enthusiasts, and the Field Museum displays natural history exhibits that appeal to all ages. The Chicago Architecture Center showcases the city’s architectural evolution, and Navy Pier offers rides, shops, and restaurants. The Magnificent Mile is a shopper’s paradise with historic buildings, and 360 Chicago gives a bird’s-eye view of the city’s skyline from atop the John Hancock Center.

The Audio Commentary and App Features

The audio guide in English and Spanish provides background on each stop, explaining Chicago’s history, architecture, and cultural significance. The live bus tracking via the Big Bus app helps you plan when to hop off, minimizing wait times and ensuring you can maximize your sightseeing day. The digital walking tours available as an extra deepen your experience at specific stops, covering Chicago architecture, public art, and the Riverwalk.

Some reviews mention inconsistent audio quality and driver variability, but most find that the commentary adds valuable context. The climate-controlled lower deck and open top ensure comfort during different weather conditions.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

This tour offers wheelchair-accessible vehicles equipped with lifts that can accommodate up to 650 pounds. Service animals are permitted, but pets are not allowed onboard unless they are ADA service animals. The signage at stops might be subtle, so using the app’s “Find a Stop” feature can help locate your starting point more easily.

For convenience, tickets can be redeemed at Stop #1 Riverwalk or with the driver at any stop along the route. The buses run about every 30-45 minutes, so planning around this schedule helps avoid long waits. During busy periods, crowding can occur, especially on the lower deck, which some reviews note as less comfortable.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

The main advantage of this tour is flexibility—you can hop off at major sights and explore more deeply, then hop back on to continue your route. The scenic views from the open-top bus are ideal for photos and sightseeing, especially along the lakefront and skyline.

However, some reviews point out driver inconsistency, with experiences ranging from knowledgeable guides to rude or erratic drivers. Crowding on the buses can also be an issue during peak times, and some stops may have poor signage, making finding the start point challenging without the app.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour suits first-time visitors who want an overview of Chicago’s highlights without the hassle of navigating public transport on their own. The self-paced nature is excellent for families, groups, or those wanting a relaxed city introduction. Weather considerations are worth noting; on rainy days, the open top may be less comfortable unless combined with the climate-controlled lower deck.

The tour is also good for short stays, as the 24- or 48-hour passes cover the main sights efficiently. However, crowding and driver quality may impact the experience, so those seeking a more guided or intimate tour might prefer other options.

The Final Verdict: Worth the Price?

The Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off tour offers a convenient, flexible way to see Chicago’s most popular sights. The route and stops are well-chosen, and the audio commentary adds value. The price of $52.20 is reasonable for a self-guided sightseeing experience, especially considering the ability to hop on and off throughout the day.

That said, reviews highlight potential drawbacks, such as crowding on buses, driver inconsistency, and signage issues. Visitors should be prepared for these possibilities and plan accordingly, especially by using the Big Bus app for real-time updates.

This tour provides a solid overview of downtown Chicago and lakefront attractions, making it ideal for those who want a relaxed, unhurried exploration of the city at their own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often does a bus arrive at each stop?
Buses depart approximately every 30-45 minutes, ensuring regular service along the route.

Where do I redeem my ticket?
You can redeem your mobile voucher at Stop #1: Riverwalk, or with the driver at any designated stop along the route.

What stops are included on the route?
Stops include Riverwalk, Skydeck Chicago, Millennium Park, Grant Park, Adler Planetarium, Field Museum, Chicago Architecture Center, Navy Pier, Magnificent Mile, 360 Chicago, and River North.

Can I get off and reboard later?
Yes, the multi-day passes allow you to hop off at any stop and reboard later, giving you flexibility to explore each site at your own pace.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the buses are equipped with lifts and can accommodate wheelchairs up to 650 pounds.

Are there options for guided or personalized tours?
No, the audio commentary is pre-recorded, and the tour does not include live guides. For more personalized experiences, other tours may be better suited.

What is the experience like when the weather is bad?
The climate-controlled lower deck offers shelter during rain or cold weather, but the open top will be less comfortable in poor conditions.

Is food or drink allowed onboard?
Non-alcoholic drinks in screw-top bottles are permitted, but food and alcohol are not allowed on the bus.

The Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off tour remains a practical choice for easy city viewing with the flexibility to customize your visit. Just be aware of potential crowds and signage challenges to maximize your experience.