Chicago Hauntings Original Ghost Bus Tour

Chicago Hauntings Original Ghost Bus Tour: A Spooky Ride Through the Windy City’s Dark Side

If you’re fascinated by ghosts, gangsters, and the darker corners of Chicago’s past, then the Chicago Hauntings Original Ghost Bus Tour might be just the adventure you’re looking for. For $59, you get about three hours of storytelling and sightseeing on a comfortable bus, with stops at some of Chicago’s most notorious and eerie sites. Led by guides like Tony and Sadie, who are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, this tour promises a mix of history, true crime, and supernatural tales.

What we love about this experience is how it combines entertaining storytelling with convenient transport, so you don’t have to worry about walking in the dark or navigating the city alone. Plus, the stops at sites like the Old City Cemetery or the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre offer an authentic glimpse into Chicago’s haunted and infamous past. The second standout feature is the opportunity to see more sights in less time—perfect if your schedule is tight but your interest in the city’s ghostly tales is boundless.

One potential consideration is that, with a focus on storytelling and sightseeing, this is not a highly theatrical or spooky experience—those looking for ghostly encounters might be disappointed if they expect paranormal activity on the bus itself. It’s primarily an informative tour with some fun extras, like the chance to use ghost-hunting tools at certain stops, which reviews mention as a highlight.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, true crime fans, and anyone who enjoys a good ghost story without the need for haunted house theatrics. It’s also ideal for those who prefer to explore from the comfort of a bus rather than walking through dark, unfamiliar streets at night.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: A bus that can accommodate up to 50 passengers, making for a smooth and social ride.
• In-Depth Stories: Guides are praised for their knowledge—expect detailed, informative commentary.
• Authentic Sites: Stops include historic and haunted sites like the City Cemetery, the Lincoln Park Zoo, and the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre.
• Flexible and Convenient: Mobile tickets and a set start/end point at the Congress Plaza Hotel make logistics straightforward.
• Value for Money: At $59 for three hours, it offers a well-rounded, entertaining experience that blends history with the supernatural.
• Potential Drawback: The tour’s focus on storytelling means it’s not a true ghost-hunting adventure—no paranormal activity guaranteed.

A Deep Dive into the Chicago Ghost Bus Tour

The Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour kicks off outside the Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center, a location central enough for most visitors staying in downtown Chicago. From there, you hop aboard a luxurious, comfortable bus that fits up to 50 travelers—a good size to foster a lively atmosphere without feeling crowded.

The tour lasts approximately three hours, during which your guides, like Tony and Sadie, weave together history, crime, and ghost stories. We found that the guides’ knowledge and storytelling skills are highly praised in reviews, with comments like, “Tony knows his stuff” and “The guides were awesome! Super informative.” This indicates that the main value here is the expert narration that brings Chicago’s haunted past to life.

Stops and Sights: What’s on the Itinerary?

The tour isn’t just about sitting and listening; it includes stops at some of the most historically and paranormally interesting sites in Chicago. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect at each:

Jane Addams Hull-House Museum:
This first stop introduces us to the story of the “Devil Baby,” a spooky legend that causes quite a stir in the neighborhood. The short visit here sets an eerie tone, and many reviews mention how engaging and informative the guide is about local legends.

Chicago City Cemetery:
A site shrouded in mystery, the old cemetery once held 13,000 unmarked graves. Today it’s abandoned, with only remnants and stories of spirits lingering. The guide will take you for a quick walk around, and you’ll get a sense of Chicago’s grim past—although, of course, it’s all about storytelling since the graves are long gone.

Couch Mausoleum:
This Chicago landmark is rumored to house some eerie secrets. Visitors have asked, “Who’s buried there?” and “What strange happenings are linked to it?” The guide’s insights help turn this from just another mausoleum into a story-rich stop.

Chicago History Museum:
Here, you might hear about sightings of ghosts near Abraham Lincoln’s bed—a story that adds a supernatural layer to the city’s most famous president. The museum itself is a hub of Chicago history, so it’s a nice blend of fact and folklore.

Bridge over South Pond:
Reputedly Chicago’s “most famous suicide bridge,” it’s a somber but notable site. Expect a brief stop with commentary on the tragic history tied to the bridge.

2122 N Clark Street:
This is the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, perhaps Chicago’s most infamous gangland event. As you stand nearby, you’ll hear about the mobsters like Al Capone, making this stop a favorite among crime enthusiasts.

Lincoln Park Zoo:
Lying above the old cemetery, the zoo is said to be haunted by spirits of the past. Visitors note that the combination of wildlife and ghost stories makes for an atmospheric stop.

Biograph Theatre:
Known as the place where John Dillinger was shot in 1934, this site attracts those interested in gangster lore. Several reviews mention how guides bring these stories to life, making history feel immediate.

S.S. Eastland Memorial:
This site commemorates a tragic boat accident that killed hundreds. The stories of spirits still “allegedly” lingering here make it a poignant stop.

James M. Nederlander Theatre:
Once the scene of the worst theater fire in American history, it’s called “Death Alley” in some circles. Expect stories of tragedy and ghostly tales from the theater’s past.

All these stops are short but packed with history and stories. The guide’s explanations are often described as detailed and well-researched, which adds authenticity to the experience.

The Experience on the Bus

Reviews repeatedly praise the comfort of the bus and the quality of narration. Some guides, like Joann, are highlighted for their knowledge and storytelling flair, making the ride both educational and engaging. The addition of ghost-hunting tools like EMF meters, as mentioned in reviews, offers interactive fun for those curious about paranormal phenomena.

Throughout the tour, you’ll hear tales that range from true crime to supernatural legends. The guide will also clarify that, while the tour is spooky and atmospheric, it’s primarily about telling stories—so don’t expect ghost sightings on the bus itself.

What Travelers Say

Many reviewers say the tour is “very informative,” with guides that are “full of knowledge,” and that it provides a great value for money. One wrote, “Tony and Sadie were awesome! They were very informative,” and others appreciated the balance of history and ghost stories, noting they learned a lot about Chicago’s gangster past and disasters.

A standout point is the interactive element—some reviews mention being able to use ghost-hunting equipment, which adds a layer of fun and engagement. Several people also point out that the tour is suitable for all ages, making it a good family outing.

Practical Details and Booking

The tour costs $59 per person, which many reviewers consider a good value for a three-hour experience filled with stories, sights, and some fun extras. Booking 20 days in advance is common, indicating popular demand, especially around Halloween or peak tourist seasons.

The meeting point at the Congress Plaza Hotel makes it easy to access, especially for those staying downtown. The tour is mobile ticket—no paper needed—which helps streamline the start of your spooky adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost bus tour is perfect for history lovers, true crime fans, and anyone intrigued by Chicago’s haunted reputation. If you enjoy learning stories behind historic sites, this tour will suit you. It’s also a good option if you prefer not to walk in the dark—the bus takes you comfortably from site to site, making it accessible for most travelers.

Given the informative guides and interactive elements, it’s also a good choice for families, couples, or groups of friends looking to combine entertainment with education. However, those expecting highly theatrical or haunted house-style horror might find this more subdued.

The Sum Up

The Chicago Hauntings Original Ghost Bus Tour offers a well-balanced blend of history, crime, and supernatural stories that breathe life into the city’s darker past. For $59, you gain a comfortable, informative ride through some of Chicago’s most infamous sites, with plenty of authentic tales and engaging guides. The stops at places like the Lincoln Park Cemetery and St. Valentine’s Day Massacre site are thoughtfully selected, providing both atmosphere and context.

This tour is especially appealing to history buffs, true crime enthusiasts, and ghost story aficionados who enjoy a relaxed yet immersive experience. While it doesn’t promise ghost sightings, it delivers a fascinating storytelling journey that adds a spooky twist to your Chicago visit.

If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and slightly eerie way to explore the city’s darker history, this tour offers great value and memorable stories. Just be aware that the experience is rooted in storytelling, and the “haunted” elements are more suggestive than supernatural.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately three hours, including sightseeing stops and commentary.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center in downtown Chicago.

Is the ticket price per person?
Yes, the $59 fee is for each individual.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for families.

What’s included in the tour?
Your tour escort or host is included, along with the sightseeing and storytelling.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour is conducted on a mobile ticket bus, not a walking tour, so you’ll stay comfortably seated.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the price covers the tour; transportation to/from the meeting point is not included.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
As it involves some stops and short walks, those with mobility concerns should review specific needs, but overall, the bus-based format is accessible.

Will I see ghosts during the tour?
The tour is focused on stories and history; actual paranormal activity isn’t guaranteed. Many enjoy the tales regardless.

In essence, the Chicago Hauntings Ghost Bus Tour offers a fun, factual, and atmospheric way to explore the city’s haunted and notorious past—perfect for curious travelers keen on history, crime, and ghost stories alike.