How to Take a Historical Tour of Chicago

Take a historical tour of Chicago, where you will learn about the history of the city and visit famous buildings and sites. See dozens of historical landmarks along the Loop in Chicago's historic downtown district between the Chicago River and Grant Park. You can also visit dozens of different districts in Chicago from Wicker Park to Alta Vista Terrace.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Maps of Chicago
• Walking shoes
• Tour reservations

1. Contact the Chicago History Museum at [phone] to get information on their historical tours of Chicago. The museum offers a variety of low-cost tours, which include history pub crawls, walking tours, L tours, trolley tours and boat tours.

2. Brush up on your history. Head to the library and read about the history of the city of Chicago, as you prepare to take your tour. Research the historical Chicago neighborhoods and landmarks to decide what area of the city you want to concentrate on during your historical tour.

3. Consider an overnight tour. The Chicago History Museum offers an overnight tour of Galena and the Mississippi River. You will visit the Ulysses S. Grant Home, Belvedere Mansion and Lin Mar Gardens. In addition, there is a luncheon cruise, a winery tour and a hotel stay in Galena as part of the package.

4. Book your tour. Consider that weekend tours will be much more crowded, and winter weather in Chicago is not the best if you are choosing a walking tour.

5. Take the tour. Learn about the history, architecture, culture and sports of the area by spending time at the many points of interest on your historical tour of Chicago.

Tips & Warnings

• Eat with the locals. Pizzerias and local cafes are great places to absorb the history and culture of the city of Chicago.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. There will be a lot of walking on your tour of Chicago, so dress accordingly. Be sure to check the weather, and bring a coat or umbrella, if necessary.
• Be wary of your surroundings. Do not carry a lot of cash when on a historical tour of Chicago.