Viator Rating : 5 (216 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 9.0/10 (Verified Excellent)
Chicago
Chicago History Tour: Uncover Downtown's Secrets
120
Overview
Walkin' with Colin: Chicago History-Mystery-Comedy-Tragedy Tour offers a profound walk through downtown Chicago. It uncovers incredible stories and secrets of the city. This walking tour explores “Da Loop,” peeling back the layers of Chicago to reveal its history and beauty.
Participants can expect an engaging and eye-opening experience. The tour goes inside extraordinary buildings and admires amazing art and architecture, uncovering how it all came to be. Key stops include the Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago Board of Trade Building, Federal Plaza, Reliance Building, Chicago Picasso, Chicago Theatre, and Marshall Field's (Macy's on State Street).
This experience includes all fees and taxes. Expert local guides lead small groups through the city's most iconic landmarks, sharing stories and insights along the way. Get ready to walk and discover the heart of Chicago! 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Crowd Density (8 - Empty / Light) : Very few people, free movement
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (10 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (9 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (10 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (10 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
Highlights
Discover Chicago's Hidden Stories: Uncover the secrets and fascinating tales behind Chicago's famous landmarks.
Explore Iconic Buildings: Go inside amazing buildings and admire the unique architecture of Chicago.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a more personal tour with a small group.
All Fees and Taxes Included: No need to worry about extra costs – everything is included in the price.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the guide's knowledge and fun way of telling stories.
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Visitors said the tour was interesting and they learned a lot about Chicago's history.
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Many people found it to be a great way to see famous places in the city.
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The tour is a good mix of history and fun facts.
Some visitors felt the tour could have been shorter.
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A few people mentioned it was hard to hear the guide sometimes.
The Journey
Chicago Cultural Center
Marvel at Marc Chagall's breathtaking 'Four Seasons' mosaic mural within the stunning Chicago Cultural Center. Once Chicago's first central public library, this architectural masterpiece now hosts free cultural events and exhibitions, showcasing the city's commitment to art and community. Explore its opulent Preston Bradley Hall, adorned with a Tiffany glass dome, and discover why it's considered one of Chicago's true gems.
Chicago Board of Trade Building
Behold the Chicago Board of Trade Building, an Art Deco masterpiece that stands as a symbol of Chicago's financial prowess. Observe the building's iconic facade crowned by a statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture. Inside, discover the bustling trading floors where billions of dollars change hands daily, and delve into the history of commodity trading that has shaped Chicago's economic landscape.
Federal Plaza
Experience the intersection of Modern Art and Modern Architecture at Federal Plaza. Admire Alexander Calder's vibrant 'Flamingo' sculpture, a bold statement against the backdrop of Mies van der Rohe's minimalist architecture. Reflect on the powerful juxtaposition of art and urban space, and understand how these iconic works contribute to Chicago's unique cultural identity.
Reliance Building
Step back in time at the Reliance Building, one of Chicago's oldest skyscrapers and a pioneering example of the Chicago School of architecture. Admire its large glass windows and innovative steel-frame construction, which revolutionized skyscraper design. Discover the building's history as a symbol of Chicago's architectural innovation and its enduring legacy as a National Historic Landmark.
Chicago Picasso
Stand in awe before the Chicago Picasso, a monumental 50-foot sculpture that Pablo Picasso gifted to the city. Contemplate the abstract form and its enigmatic meaning, sparking dialogue and interpretation among viewers for generations. Discover how this iconic sculpture has become a beloved symbol of Chicago's artistic spirit and a must-see landmark for visitors.
Chicago Theatre
Immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of the Chicago Theatre, an iconic landmark that has hosted legendary performers for nearly a century. Marvel at its opulent Baroque design, inspired by French palaces, and imagine the countless stars who have graced its stage. Take a tour to learn about the theater's rich history and its enduring role as a cultural beacon in the heart of Chicago.
Marshall Field's (Macy's on State Street)
Delve into the history of Marshall Field's, now Macy's on State Street, a revolutionary department store that once reigned as the largest in the world. Explore its grand architecture, including the iconic Great Clocks and Tiffany glass ceiling. Discover the legacy of Marshall Field, a visionary merchant who transformed the retail experience and shaped Chicago's consumer culture.
Chicago Cultural Center
Explore the Chicago Cultural Center, a magnificent architectural gem that embodies the city's commitment to arts and culture. Originally the city's central library, this landmark boasts stunning interiors, including the world's largest stained-glass Tiffany dome. Discover free exhibitions, concerts, and events held within its walls, and immerse yourself in Chicago's vibrant cultural scene.
Know Before You Go
This walking tour includes all fees and taxes. What is not included is personal expenses. Please meet your guide at the designated meeting point in downtown Chicago. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as this is a walking tour.
Hot Tip
Many visitors suggest wearing comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking. Also, try to arrive a few minutes early to find the meeting spot and be ready to start on time!
Review Summary
Reviews on Viator and other public sites consistently praise the Walkin' with Colin tour for its engaging storytelling, entertaining mix of history, comedy, and mystery, and the guide's deep knowledge of Chicago's downtown area. Travelers particularly appreciate the tour’s small group size and insightful stops at notable buildings and art. Some note that the walking pace and outdoor nature might be challenging in hot or humid weather, and the tour is not fully accessible for those needing mobility aids. Overall, it is highly recommended for visitors seeking a captivating, unique perspective on Chicago’s layered history.
Frequently Asked Questions
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