Chicago: Mobsters and Movies Walking Tour

Chicago: Mobsters and Movies Walking Tour — An In-Depth Review

If you’re headed to Chicago and have a fascination with true crime, Hollywood glamour, or both, the Mobsters and Movies Walking Tour offers a compelling way to spend an afternoon. For just $35 per person, you’ll spend approximately two hours exploring downtown Chicago’s most famous streets—visiting notorious mob sites and iconic film locations. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour strikes a nice balance between history and pop culture, making every step feel like walking through a living movie set.

What makes this experience truly stand out are the inside stories about Chicago’s gangster legends like Al Capone and John Dillinger, and the behind-the-scenes tales of the Hollywood productions that brought Chicago’s streets to life on the big screen. The tour also offers surprising glimpses into underground tunnels used by the Outfit and exclusive interiors that connect the city’s dark past to its silver screen fame.

A quick note of caution: because the tour involves a lot of walking over a couple of hours, it might be less suitable for visitors with mobility concerns. Still, the wheelchair accessibility makes it a good option for most travelers.

This tour is especially well-suited for history buffs, film fans, and urban explorers eager to connect Chicago’s past with the movies they love. From The Blues Brothers to The Dark Knight, there’s a story waiting around every corner.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic stories: Guides are trained true crime historians, adding depth and credibility.
• Iconic locations: Walk the same streets as Al Capone and your favorite movie characters.
• Behind-the-scenes insights: Learn what’s real, what’s Hollywood, and how they intertwine.
• Unique interiors: Step inside buildings with connections to mob plots and Hollywood filming.
• Comprehensive coverage: Explores landmarks like the Chicago Riverwalk, the Art Institute, and famous tunnels.
• Great value: For $35, you get a lively, fact-filled experience with souvenir photos included.

The Tour Itinerary and Experience

The Chicago Mobsters and Movies Tour kicks off at the Chase Bank on the corner of State and Wacker, a central and recognizable starting point that sets the tone for a walk through the heart of downtown. From here, the tour quickly shifts into high gear, blending true crime stories with cinematic highlights.

Exploring Mob Haunts and Crime Legends

Your guides—who are more than just storytellers—are history buffs with a knack for storytelling. They share tales of Al Capone’s operations, John Dillinger’s last visit with his girlfriend, and the secret underground tunnels used by the Chicago Outfit. These tunnels are a real draw, offering a rare glimpse into the shadowy world of organized crime.

Reviewers rave about the guides’ ability to make history come alive, with one saying, “The tour guide made it really interesting and got the point across.” We love how these stories are not just dry facts but engaging narratives that help us understand the Chicago mobster culture and its lasting influence.

Movie Locations and Filming Spots

Next, the tour shifts gears into the Hollywood side of things, showing how streets once associated with gangsters have also played starring roles in movies. You’ll visit the famous Picasso statue, which has appeared in films like ‘The Fugitive’, ‘The Blues Brothers’, and ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’. Expect to see the former Chicago Public Library with its largest Tiffany glass dome, a setting for scenes in several films.

The tour also explores locations used in ‘The Dark Knight’, ‘The Untouchables’, and ‘The Fugitive’, giving a sense of how Chicago’s architecture and streets are integral to Hollywood storytelling.

More Great Tours Nearby

Deep Dives into Chicago’s Cultural and Criminal Past

As you walk through the business district, the guide connects famous crimes to Chicago’s architectural marvels, providing context on how the city’s cultural mile and art institutions intertwine with its darker stories. For example, the Art Institute isn’t just a visual feast but also a filming location for movies, and the guide offers tips on making the most of a visit there.

Ending at the Iconic Scene

The tour culminates at the scene of the climactic shootout in ‘The Untouchables’, inside the former Chicago Public Library. This spot perfectly encapsulates the blend of mobster history and Hollywood magic that the tour celebrates.

What You Get for Your Money

The $35 price point is reasonable considering the two-hour duration, the inside stories, and the souvenir photos included. The small-group size ensures a personalized experience, and the live guide provides engaging narration, often peppered with insider trivia.

Reviews consistently highlight the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides. One traveler from Austria mentioned, “Our tour guide was truly great,” emphasizing the value of a passionate, well-informed storyteller. The wheelchair accessibility also makes it an inclusive option for most visitors.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

If you’re a fan of true crime stories, you’ll appreciate the honest insights into Chicago’s gangland past, including the notorious figures who once ruled the city’s underworld. For movie buffs, the tour’s focus on filming locations and behind-the-scenes stories adds a layer of cinematic magic to your visit.

This tour also offers a different perspective on Chicago’s architecture and history, moving beyond typical landmarks to include secret tunnels and interior sites you wouldn’t usually see on standard sightseeing walks. It’s a great way to combine education, entertainment, and a bit of adventure.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or less walking, this might not be ideal, especially since the tour covers a significant stretch of downtown streets. Still, the two-hour duration makes it manageable for most.

Final Thoughts

The Mobsters and Movies Walking Tour is a fantastic choice for those who want more than just a sightseeing stroll. It’s packed with stories that captivate, locations that excite, and guides who genuinely know their stuff. Whether you’re a crime history enthusiast or a film lover, this tour offers a unique window into Chicago’s past and present.

You’ll leave with a new appreciation for how this city’s architecure, crime lore, and Hollywood stories are all interconnected. For $35, it’s an affordable, engaging way to see Chicago through a different lens. Expect to walk away with fun facts, memorable sights, and plenty of conversation starters.

This experience is best suited for curious travelers eager to explore the city’s darker side and celebrated film locations. It’s a lively, informative tour that makes the most of Chicago’s reputation as a crime and cinema capital.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but because it involves walking and some mature themes related to crime, parental discretion is advised for young children.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately two hours, covering a significant stretch of downtown Chicago with plenty of stops and stories along the way.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible; however, no transportation or mobility devices are provided, so some walking will be involved.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Chase Bank at the corner of State and Wacker, centrally located downtown.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the guided tour, souvenir photos, and the expert knowledge of your guide.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Is it possible to learn about other movies or locations?
The focus is on Mobsters and Chicago movies like The Dark Knight and The Fugitive, but some guests suggest expanding to include other films.

How many people typically participate?
The tour tends to be a small group, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

To sum it up, the Chicago Mobsters and Movies Walking Tour marries history and entertainment in a way that makes the city’s stories come alive. For $35, you’re getting a well-guided, informative, and fun experience that will appeal to those interested in Chicago’s criminal past and Hollywood fame. It’s an experience that offers a fresh perspective on the city’s streets, promising plenty of stories that stick with you long after you’ve left.

You can check availability for your dates here: