Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

If you’re curious about Chicago’s notorious past and want to see the city’s crime-related sites without the hassle of walking or navigating public transportation, the Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour might just be your ticket. This roughly two-hour adventure offers a spirited look into the city’s history of gangsters, mobsters, and infamous crime scenes, all from the comfort of a climate-controlled coach. Whether you’re a history buff or simply a curious traveler, this tour promises stories that are as colorful as the city’s skyline.

Two things we really like about this experience are the skill of the guides—who are generally praised for their knowledge and engaging delivery—and the opportunity for some outdoor exploration at key crime scenes. The tour strikes a nice balance: a comfortable bus ride with plenty of storytelling, topped with a few stops where you can stretch your legs and snap photos in front of historic sites.

A potential consideration: the ride relies heavily on a bus, so weather can influence your experience. On rainy days, the windows might fog up or limit visibility, which some reviews have noted. Also, with a maximum group size of 39, it’s a fairly intimate experience, but on busy days, seating could be tight. This tour suits those who enjoy a good story, a bit of history, and don’t mind spending time on a coach.

If you’re visiting Chicago and have an interest in its colorful, sometimes dark past, this tour offers a memorable way to learn and see the city through a different lens.

Key Points

• The tour lasts roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, perfect for a quick yet immersive experience.
• It takes place on a luxury, climate-controlled coach, making it comfortable regardless of weather.
• Multiple stops allow for outdoor exploration of key crime scenes and historic sites.
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and engaging style.
• The tour offers photo opportunities at crime scenes and iconic Chicago landmarks.
• It provides extra features like a crime quiz, historic videos, and a mini mob museum.

A Closer Look at the Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

Starting Point and Atmosphere

The tour kicks off outside 163 E. Pearson Street, just on the SE side of Michigan Avenue and Pearson Street. This location is convenient, close to the Water Tower Place shopping mall and easily accessible via public transportation. As you gather, the guide sets the tone—informative yet lively—ready to walk you through Chicago’s notorious gangster history.

This initial segment is a good chance to get your bearings and understand what makes Chicago’s crime stories so compelling. The guide’s lively narration helps bring the city’s past scenes to life, making the history feel immediate and engaging.

The Vehicle: Comfort Meets Practicality

Traveling on a luxury, climate-controlled coach, you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride through Chicago’s neighborhoods. The bus’s size (max 39 travelers) encourages interaction but remains intimate enough for everyone to hear the guide clearly. The seats are described as somewhat cramped in legroom, which is a minor point but worth considering if you’re tall or prefer more space.

The bus’s amenities make for a smooth experience—no need to worry about weather or noise. However, note that the bus isn’t equipped with an electronic lift, so travelers with mobility challenges should plan accordingly. Also, there are no restrooms on board, so plan for bathroom breaks beforehand.

The Route and Main Stops

The tour weaves through Chicago’s most historic and crime-riddled areas—think the Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, Old Town, and the Loop. You’ll see a good mix of neighborhoods that have played roles in the city’s gangster stories.

One of the standout features is the opportunity to hop off the bus at certain locations for close-up exploration. For example, you’ll visit the Biograph Theatre—famous for the FBI’s final attempt to capture John Dillinger. The theater, now historic, was also the site of Dillinger’s death in 1934, making it a must-see for crime fans.

Other stops include a drive-by of the Chicago River, offering sweeping views of the skyline and historic speakeasies from the Prohibition era. The tour also passes landmarks like the John Hancock Center, Holy Name Cathedral (which stands near the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre), and the Jewelers Building.

Exploring the Crime Scenes

The tour’s core is the storytelling—your guide brings alive the stories of infamous figures like Al Capone, Hymie Weiss, John Dillinger, and Bugs Moran. Several reviews praise guides for their depth of knowledge and engaging delivery. One reviewer mentions, “Dane is an incredible tour guide. The tour was informative and lots of fun.” Another notes that the guide kept things lively with historical videos and a crime quiz, adding an interactive element.

At key locations, you can get out and take pictures—especially at the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, one of Chicago’s most notorious murders. Standing near the historic courthouse and the former speakeasies, you get a tangible sense of the city’s gritty past.

Inside and Outside Experiences

The tour includes a visit inside Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse, where you can see Nitti’s vault—a mob museum—and tunnels used for bootlegging. This is a highlight for many, offering a glimpse into the secret world of Chicago’s organized crime beyond just stories. The tour also features a mini mob museum and historic video footage, which add layers of context.

The Stops and Their Value

• Holy Name Cathedral: While primarily a beautiful historic church, passing by the site of the 1929 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre provides a stark reminder of Chicago’s violent past.
• Biograph Theatre: A favorite among crime buffs, the theater is a tangible link to Dillinger’s story.
• Chicago River & Skyline: These breathtaking views help you appreciate Chicago’s architecture and history from a different perspective.
• Harry Caray’s and Tunnels: A unique peek into the underground world of the Prohibition era, adding authenticity to the gangster stories.

The Experience and Reviews

The overall reviews are very positive, with a 4.6 out of 5 from nearly 2,800 travelers. Many reviewers highlight the knowledge and humor of the guides, making the stories come alive. One enthusiast states, “They give great info and crime in Chicago…very informative,” while another says, “Ethan is a great tour guide—hilarious and engaging.”

A few reviews mention weather as a potential issue, especially if rain obscures windows or limits outdoor photo ops. Some feel the tour could have more stops or outdoor time, but most agree that the storytelling and scenery make up for it.

Cost and Value

At $49 per person, the tour offers good value for those interested in Chicago’s criminal past. The inclusion of stops, photo ops, videos, and a mob museum enhances the experience. For history or crime enthusiasts, this is a budget-friendly way to learn about Chicago’s more colorful stories without spending a fortune.

Practical Details

• Booking: Most travelers book about 12 days in advance, which is wise given the tour’s popularity.
• Meeting Point: Near the Water Tower Place, easily accessible.
• Duration: About 1.5 to 2 hours—perfect for a quick yet substantial storytelling session.
• Accessibility: No electronic lift; steps and stairs involved.
• Weather: Good weather is recommended; if canceled due to rain, you can reschedule or get a full refund.
• Tips: A gratuity of around $5 per person is customary, paid in cash or Venmo.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those with an interest in Chicago’s gangster era, history buffs, or travelers who enjoy storytelling with a bit of outdoor exploration. It’s a great option if you want a mix of education, entertainment, and scenic views—all in a manageable timeframe. If you’re traveling with family or friends who like crime stories, this tour will likely be a hit.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely, museum-focused experience or have mobility issues, you might find the tour’s outdoor stops and bus-only format less accommodating. Also, be prepared for the possibility of cramped seating and no bathroom breaks.

The Sum Up

The Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour delivers a lively, informative look into the city’s notorious past without the fuss of walking through multiple sites. Its strength lies in the guides’ storytelling prowess and the opportunity to see and photograph real crime scenes, making history feel immediate and authentic. The inclusion of historic sites, intriguing videos, and a mini-mob museum adds dimension to your experience.

This tour is well-suited for those curious about Chicago’s gangster legends, history lovers, or anyone wanting a unique perspective on the city’s past. It offers a good balance of comfort, education, and entertainment at a reasonable price, making it a memorable way to spend a few hours in Chicago.

If you love stories of crime, history, and the city’s darker tales, this tour will keep you engaged and leave you with plenty of stories to tell. Just remember to dress for the weather and arrive early—Chicago’s gangster stories won’t wait.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, giving you enough time to hear stories and see some sites without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It begins outside 163 E. Pearson Street, near Michigan Avenue and the Water Tower Place, a central and convenient location.

Are there stops where I can get off and explore?
Yes, there are stops where you can hop off and explore sites like the Biograph Theatre and the Holy Name Cathedral.

Is the bus accessible for people with mobility challenges?
No, the bus is not equipped with an electronic lift, so stairs and steps are involved. Travelers with mobility issues should plan accordingly.

What should I bring?
Arrive early, wear weather-appropriate clothing, and bring a camera for photos. There are no restrooms on board.

Is tipping expected?
Yes, a gratuity of about $5 per person (or more) is customary and can be paid via cash or Venmo.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are possible, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the outdoor stops and some mature themes in Chicago’s gangster history. Children comfortable with history stories should be fine.

How far in advance should I book?
Most people book about 12 days ahead, especially during busy seasons, to secure their spot.