Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

Discover Chicago’s Food and Landmarks in Just 3 Hours

The Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour offers an engaging way to sample the city’s most beloved dishes while exploring its famous sights. For $84.99 per person, this approximately three-hour tour covers a manageable 1.5 miles through downtown Chicago, making it suitable for most fitness levels. With food tastings included and optional bike or kayak rentals, it combines culinary delights with cultural insights in a lively, well-organized format. The tour departs from Palmer House Hilton Hotel, and the local guides are known for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making it a hit among past participants.

While the tour is a fantastic choice for food lovers eager to try deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches, it also offers plenty of scenic views, iconic architecture, and insider tips. The tour’s popularity is reflected in a perfect 5.0 rating from over 1,500 reviews, with 96% recommending it. It’s a memorable way to get a taste of Chicago’s culinary and cultural heritage in just a few hours.

Key Points

• Includes food tastings at Chicago landmarks like Lou Malnati’s and Gino’s East
• Visits major sights such as Millennium Park, the Chicago River, and the Wrigley Building
• Optional bike or kayak rental for further exploration after the tour
• Knowledgeable guides share Chicago history and stories behind iconic dishes
• Suitable for most fitness levels, walking about 1.5 miles with plenty of stops
• Operates rain or shine, with some stops through the Chicago Pedway in colder months

Starting Point at Lou Malnati’s or Gino’s East

The tour begins at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria for daytime tours or Gino’s East in the evening. Both locations serve as the meeting spots where the group gathers around 11am, 11:30am, or 5:30pm. Here, the guide introduces the city’s history before leading the group to sample Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza. These stops set the tone for the culinary journey, with the pizza joints renowned for their authentic, bubbling, cheesy pies.

Exploring Chicago’s Historic Landmarks and Scenic Promenades

Following the food introduction, the tour takes a scenic walk through downtown Chicago, passing notable sites such as the Magnificent Mile and the Wrigley Building. In warmer months, the route includes walking along the scenic Loop’s promenades, while in colder times, the Chicago Pedway system keeps everyone comfortably sheltered. The Chicago River also features prominently, offering views of its waterways linking to the Great Lakes and beyond. The combination of architecture and natural beauty highlights the city’s unique urban landscape.

Tasting Chicago’s Iconic Hot Dogs at Max’s Take Out

A highlight for many is the visit to Max’s Take Out, a classic hot dog stand on the start of Route 66. Here, the group samples what makes a Chicago-style hot dog so special, including an all-beef frank topped with mustard, onions, relish, and peppers. This stop captures the essence of Chicago street food, offering a simple yet flavorful taste of local culinary tradition. The hot dog is often praised as authentic and satisfying, making it a standout part of the tour.

Notable Architectural Sights: Wrigley Building and Chicago Theatre

The tour includes a quick visit to the Wrigley Building, the first major skyscraper built north of the Chicago River, known for its exquisite façade. Just nearby, the Chicago Theatre marquee on State Street offers a glimpse of the city’s entertainment history. These stops provide photo opportunities and insights into Chicago’s architectural evolution, adding cultural depth to the food-focused experience.

Millennium Park, The Bean, and Crown Fountain

At the heart of the tour is Millennium Park, a vibrant space filled with art, gardens, and public sculptures. The group visits Cloud Gate, affectionately called The Bean, a shiny stainless steel sculpture designed by Anish Kapoor. It’s a perfect spot for photos and appreciated for its reflective surface that captures Chicago’s skyline. Nearby, Crown Fountain, with its LED display of Chicagoans’ faces, offers a playful and artistic break. Both sites are free and showcase the city’s modern cultural scene.

Frank Gehry’s Jay Pritzker Pavilion and the Loop

The Jay Pritzker Pavilion within Grant Park, designed by Frank Gehry, is another highlight. Its unique lattice structure and open-air design host summer concerts and movies. The tour also passes through Chicago’s bustling business district, known as The Loop, where historic architecture and lively street scenes complement the culinary experience.

Enduring Sweetness at the Palmer House Hilton

The tour concludes at the Palmer House Hilton, famous for its historic lobby and the original recipe brownie, first created for the 1893 World’s Fair. Guests can enjoy a sample of this famous brownie and explore the grand hotel lobby, which exudes Chicago’s storied past. The ending spot offers a fitting way to wrap up the sightseeing and tasting adventure, with the option to continue exploring on your own.

Complimentary Bike or Kayak Rental for Extended Exploration

As part of the tour package, participants receive a free 2-hour bike or kayak rental to enjoy within a few days of the tour. Bike rentals are available at Bobby’s Bike Hike headquarters near Lake Shore Drive, while kayak rentals are at Ohio Street Beach from mid-May to October, weather permitting. This bonus makes it easy to extend your Chicago experience and see more of the city’s lakeside areas or scenic bike paths.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is recommended. It’s designed to be leisurely, covering around 1.5 miles, with plenty of stops for food, photos, and sightseeing. The maximum group size is 16 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. Food and beverages are included, but gratuities are encouraged, typically around $10 per person. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated if communicated in advance.

Final Thoughts on the Chicago Favorites Tour

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of delicious iconic foods and Chicago’s architectural and cultural highlights. The knowledgeable guides bring enthusiasm and storytelling flair, making each stop informative and fun. The inclusion of food tastings like deep-dish pizza, Italian beef, and a Palmer House brownie ensures a satisfying experience, especially for first-time visitors eager to taste Chicago’s specialties.

However, some reviews note that the food quality at certain stops may vary, with a few mentioning that the pizza and hot dogs are not the absolute best Chicago has to offer. Still, the overall value, lively atmosphere, and expert guidance make this tour a popular choice. It’s especially suited for those who want to combine sightseeing with tasting Chicago’s culinary icons without overexerting themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages and fitness levels?
Yes, the tour is designed for most fitness levels, covering about 1.5 miles at a relaxed pace with plenty of stops for food and sightseeing.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Vegetarians and those avoiding beef or pork can be accommodated, but gluten-free and vegan options are limited. It’s recommended to inform the tour operator in advance.

What is included in the tour price?
All food tastings, a professional guide, and the option for a free 2-hour bike or kayak rental are included. Gratuities are suggested but not mandatory.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Palmer House Hilton Hotel, located at 17 E Monroe St in Chicago.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 24 days ahead, reflecting high demand for this popular tour.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates rain or shine. If canceled due to severe weather, a different date or full refund is available.

This Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour offers a lively, tasty, and scenic way to experience the city’s most famous foods alongside its renowned landmarks. It’s ideal for visitors wanting a taste of Chicago’s culinary and cultural scene in a relaxed, informative setting.