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

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

Imagine cruising through Chicago’s iconic skyline, with a flexible plan that lets you hop off to explore places like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, or the Art Institute whenever your curiosity sparks. For $52.20, you get a roughly two-hour complete circuit aboard a double-decker open-top bus, with the option to extend your adventure with 24-, 48-, or 72-hour passes.

What makes this tour appealing are the unobstructed views from the upper deck and the informative audio commentary—a good way to get a quick overview of the city’s major attractions. We especially like how you can tailor your day by jumping on or off at your favorite spots, which is ideal for first-timers or travelers on a tight schedule.

However, a couple of things to consider are bus crowding and occasional delays, which some reviews mentioned. If you’re prone to snagging the best seats or dislike waiting, you’ll want to plan accordingly.

This experience works best for those who want to see many highlights without the hassle of planning each detail or for travelers who value local insights combined with scenic rides. If you’re looking for an easy way to get your bearings or simply enjoy the city from a comfortable seat, this tour could be a fit.

Key Points

• Flexible tickets: Choose a 24-, 48-, or 72-hour pass to match your schedule.
• Great views: Open-top buses provide panoramic sights of Chicago’s skyline and landmarks.
• Informative commentary: Multi-language digital audio guides enhance understanding of the city.
• Strategic stops: Key attractions like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Magnificent Mile are conveniently accessible.
• Variable experiences: Some reviews highlight crowded buses or uneven driver quality.
• Accessible technology: Download the free app for bus tracking, route info, and stop locations.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary and Stops

This tour is designed to hit Chicago’s most recognizable spots, making it perfect for first-timers. Starting at the Riverwalk, you’ll get an excellent view of the city’s scenic waterway, with a stop across from Trump Tower. From there, the route moves through notable neighborhoods and landmarks, including the Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower—a favorite for skyline views—and Millennium Park, home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture.

Other stops highlight Grant Park, a green oasis amid towering skyscrapers, and the Adler Planetarium, offering an out-of-this-world perspective. The Field Museum of Natural History is also on the route, perfect for those interested in natural wonders.

You’ll find stops at the Chicago Architecture Center, where you can learn about the city’s architectural innovations, and Navy Pier, a lively entertainment hub. The Magnificent Mile with its high-end shops and the John Hancock Center at 360 Chicago round out the sightseeing circuit.

What to Expect at Each Stop

• Riverwalk: Ideal for photos and a leisurely stroll, this first stop sets the tone with scenic views and architectural grandeur.
• Skydeck Chicago: Get a bird’s-eye view of the city skyline, a must for photo buffs or anyone wanting to see how vast Chicago really is.
• Millennium Park: Known for the Cloud Gate sculpture (“The Bean”), this is a must-visit for its public art and modern vibe.
• Grant Park: Often hosting events, it’s a peaceful patch in the city with stunning skyline views.
• Adler Planetarium & Field Museum: Both stops are great for families or anyone interested in science, history, and culture.
• Chicago Architecture Center: Offers a deep dive into the city’s innovative skyline.
• Navy Pier: Expect lively crowds, boat rides, and plenty of eateries.
• Magnificent Mile & John Hancock Center: Shop, dine, and enjoy panoramic city views from the observation deck.

The Ride and Commentary

The double-decker buses provide excellent vantage points for photos and sightseeing. Still, some reviews warn that buses can be crowded, especially during peak times, which may limit your comfort and ability to enjoy the views. The audio commentary is available digitally in multiple languages, offering insightful context about Chicago’s architecture, art, and history—most reviewers find this helpful and engaging.

Practicalities and Tips

• Timing: Buses depart roughly every 30–45 minutes from each stop, so plan to wait a bit if your timing is tight.
• Tickets and App: You can redeem your voucher at Stop #1 or show it on your phone on any bus along the route. Download the Big Bus app for live tracking and route info.
• Seating and Crowds: While seating is first-come, first-served, some travelers noted the upper deck gets crowded, and the lower deck can get hot or cold depending on the weather.
• Weather Considerations: No covered top deck means rain or intense sun can impact your experience. Some reviews suggest riding during good weather for the best experience.
• Accessibility: The buses are wheelchair accessible, but not all vehicles may be equipped, so help from staff might be needed.

The Authenticity and Value

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and helpful staff as a big plus, especially those who appreciated the humor and friendliness of drivers like Candace. Others, however, mention inconsistent driver behavior and bus crowding as drawbacks. The value is good for those wanting a rundown of Chicago without the hassle of organizing multiple tours or paying for individual attractions.

The price point sits at around $52.20 per person for a one-day ticket, which many consider fair given the convenience and range of sights covered. When you factor in that you can hop on and off as often as you like, it offers flexibility that can save you both time and money compared to separate tickets or taxi rides.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a broad sense of Chicago quickly. It suits those who enjoy scenic rides with informative commentary and who prefer to explore attractions at their own pace. Families or groups with mixed interests will also appreciate the flexibility to hop off at points of particular interest.

Keep in mind, if you dislike crowds or are seeking a more personalized guided experience, you might find some aspects less satisfying. Also, travelers who prioritize comfort over panoramic views should weigh the crowded bus situation and weather exposure.

The Sum Up

The Big Bus Chicago hop-on hop-off tour offers a convenient, flexible way to see the city’s highlights while enjoying stunning views from the open top. It’s an especially good value if you want to cover a lot of ground without the stress of navigating public transport or booking individual tickets. The audio commentary adds context, turning a scenic ride into a quick city briefing.

While some reviews point to issues like crowding, delays, or uneven driver quality, most travelers find it a reliable way to orient themselves in Chicago and spark ideas for further exploration. It tends to suit first-time visitors, families, or those on limited time who want a comprehensive, no-fuss overview of the Windy City’s main attractions.

If you’re comfortable with a bit of bus crowding and want to enjoy Chicago’s sights at your own pace, this tour could be a great starting point for your visit. Just pack your patience and your camera, and you’ll likely leave with a good sense of the city’s character—all from the comfort of a scenic open-top bus.

FAQ

How often does a bus arrive at each stop during the Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour?
Buses depart approximately every 30 to 45 minutes from each stop, so you’ll generally find a bus fairly regularly, but it’s good to check your app for real-time updates.

Do I have to go to a central location to redeem my ticket?
No, you can show your digital or printed voucher at Stop #1 Riverwalk or on any bus along the route, making it convenient regardless of where you start.

How will I know which stop(s) to use during the tour?
The pre-recorded audio guide will tell you about upcoming stops, and the free Big Bus app offers live bus tracking, stop locations, and helpful info to plan your day.

How long does a full circuit of the route take?
If you stay on the bus without hopping off, expect about two hours for a complete loop, but you can spend more time exploring at each stop.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the buses are wheelchair accessible with lifts that accommodate up to 650 pounds, though not all vehicles may be equipped, so alert staff if needed.

Can I bring pets on the tour?
Only service animals are permitted onboard; pets are not allowed.

What should I know about weather?
Since the top deck is uncovered, riding in rain or intense sun may be uncomfortable. Many recommend choosing good weather days for a more enjoyable experience.

Whether you’re after a quick orientation or a full day of sightseeing, this hop-on hop-off tour provides a solid overview of Chicago’s highlights—with enough flexibility and scenic views to make it worthwhile.