Chicago Explorer Pass: 25+ Things To Do – Includes Skydeck

Exploring Chicago with the Explorer Pass: A Detailed Look at Value and Variety

Choosing how to see Chicago can be overwhelming. That’s where the Chicago Explorer Pass by Go City steps in, promising a flexible, budget-friendly way to experience more than 25 top attractions for a single price. Priced at $84 per person, it offers the chance to create a customized itinerary by selecting 2 to 7 activities, from iconic sites like the Skydeck of Willis Tower to family favorites like Navy Pier and the Museum of Science and Industry. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Chicagoan, this pass aims to streamline your sightseeing while saving you up to 50% compared to buying individual tickets.

What we particularly appreciate about this pass is its digital nature—easy to store on your mobile device—and the wide selection of attractions it covers. The ability to tailor your days around your interests without the hassle of purchasing tickets separately makes it a practical choice. However, a word to the wise: some popular attractions require advanced reservations, so planning ahead is key. The overall average booking time of about 10 days in advance suggests most travelers will have plenty of time to organize their visit well before their trip.

This pass is best suited for flexible travelers who want to explore at their own pace, and for those who value saving money while enjoying Chicago’s highlights. If you love the idea of a mix-and-match sightseeing adventure, this could be just the ticket. On the flip side, if your trip is tightly scheduled or you prefer guided tours, some individual booking might still work better. Still, for anyone looking to maximize their sightseeing without breaking the bank, the Chicago Explorer Pass offers a compelling option.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Choose up to 7 attractions from over 25 options.
• Cost savings: Up to 50% off compared to individual tickets.
• Ease of use: Mobile ticket, digital guide, reservations required for some attractions.
• Variety: From skyscraper views to family-friendly museums and outdoor activities.
• Duration: Valid for 30 days after activation, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
• Group size: Limited to 15 travelers for a more personalized experience.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary and Attractions

The Skydeck Chicago atop Willis Tower is undoubtedly a highlight. Perched 1,353 feet in the air on the 103rd floor, it offers some of the best panoramic views of the city, Lake Michigan, and beyond. The glass balcony—the Ledge—gives the thrill-seekers a unique perspective, feeling almost like floating over Chicago’s rooftops. Keep in mind, reservations are required, and making them early through the provided PDF and app is essential. Several reviews, like one from a traveler in February, note that booking can be a bit of a hassle, but once secured, the view is spectacular.

Next up is the Chicago Riverwalk, which the pass includes as part of the hop-on hop-off Big Bus tour. This makes it easy to explore the city’s famous architecture and skyline from the water and streets. The Big Bus allows you to hop off at any stop, giving you the chance to explore at your leisure — a favorite feature for many travelers. One reviewer called it a “great way to see the sights in Chicago,” appreciating the flexibility and helpful app.

The 360 Chicago Observation Deck on the 94th floor offers another perspective, with views that stretch towards Millennium Park and the lake. The fast elevator ride—zip up in under a minute—adds to the thrill, and the view from the balcony is often praised. Reservations here are also needed, but the views make it worthwhile, according to numerous positive comments.

Navy Pier remains an iconic Chicago destination, buzzing with activity. Shopping, dining, rides, and boat cruises make it a lively spot for families and couples alike. The pass gives you entry without long lines, though some travelers remark that the short rides here are quick, and you might want to spend more time exploring or relaxing at the restaurants.

The Adler Planetarium is perfect for stargazers and space enthusiasts. With exhibits like the Atwood Sphere and a choice of sky shows, it offers engaging, family-friendly fun. Reviewers love the interactive exhibits and say it’s a “must-see” for curious minds.

The Chicago River Architecture Tour, operated by Shoreline Sightseeing, is renowned for its expert guides and stunning cityscape views. Attendees often mention how they learned a lot about Chicago’s buildings and how the city’s design shaped its identity. One reviewer calls it “an exciting detailed tour,” noting the professional guide makes a difference.

The Field Museum is a major draw for those interested in natural history. From T. Rex SUE to ancient Egyptian tombs and Chinese artifacts, it’s a comprehensive museum that appeals to all ages. The 3-hour visit recommended by many reflects its vast size and exhibits.

The Museum of Science and Industry offers hands-on, dynamic exhibits that intrigue both children and adults. From science demonstrations to the Giant Dome Theater, it’s a highlight for families and science buffs. Reviewers mention the interactive nature of the exhibits and the value of the included show.

For a lighter, family-oriented experience, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a hit with kids. With LEGO exhibits, interactive zones, and themed rides, it’s a full-day activity on its own. A reviewer notes it’s perfect for LEGO fans aged 3-10.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Bike and Roll Chicago rentals around Millennium Park. It’s a fun, eco-friendly way to see the city’s green spaces and skyline, with many comments about how easy and enjoyable riding in Chicago can be. For active families or solo travelers, it adds a relaxed, scenic element to your trip.

The Chicago Children’s Museum on Navy Pier is another kid-friendly stop, with hands-on exhibits and art classes. Reviewers highlight how well it caters to children, making it a great break from more structured sightseeing.

10pin Bowling Lounge offers a fun, social experience with a retro vibe, serving great pizza and drinks. The 90-minute reserved lanes and shoe rentals make it a hassle-free option for some laid-back fun after a day of sightseeing.

The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio and Robie House Tour provide insights into the iconic architect’s early work, with the latter considered one of his most significant buildings. For architecture lovers, these sites offer a chance to see Wright’s innovative style up close.

History buffs will enjoy the Chicago History Museum and Hemingway Birthplace Museum, each offering a glimpse into Chicago’s past and literary legacy. The American Writers Museum adds a modern, interactive twist for literature fans.

For adventure seekers, the Forge Adventure Park offers activities like axe throwing, kayaking, and ziplining—though the climb and zipline aren’t included** with the pass. It’s a great way to combine outdoor fun with city sightseeing, especially on sunny days.

The Museum of Illusions is another fun stop, with over 80 rooms of optical illusions and mind-bending exhibits. It’s perfect for a quick, entertaining visit with friends or family.

Finally, for those interested in ghost stories and Chicago legends, the Lincoln Park Ghost Tour offers an eerie, fun exploration of one of the city’s most haunted spots.

What Does the Pass Mean for Your Chicago Visit?

The value of the Chicago Explorer Pass really depends on how many attractions you plan to visit. With a cost of $84 and the ability to choose up to 7 attractions, you’re likely to save a significant amount if you hit the highlights. For example, the Skydeck alone costs around $25, and the Field Museum is close to that. Add in a river cruise, the 360 Chicago Observatory, and a hop-on hop-off bus tour, and the savings start stacking up.

However, some reviews highlight the importance of advanced planning. Attractions like the Skydeck and 360 Chicago require reservations, and failing to book early might lead to disappointment. Several travelers found the QR codes and ticket scans straightforward, but others faced issues, especially when tickets didn’t load properly or when providers didn’t recognize the pass. It’s worth reading the instructions carefully and making reservations as soon as possible.

The duration of validity—30 days from the first use— gives you flexibility. It allows you to spread out your sightseeing over several days, which is especially helpful if you want to combine outdoor activities like biking or Ziplines with museum visits. For travelers with limited time, planning your must-see sights early is a good idea to maximize your experience.

The group size, capped at 15, suggests a relatively intimate experience, with guides and staff able to give more personalized attention at popular sites. This is a plus for those seeking a less crowded, more relaxed visit.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Reservations are essential for Skydeck and 360 Chicago. Book early using the digital guides and app links provided.
• Download the digital pass immediately after purchase to avoid delays.
• Plan your itinerary around opening hours and reservation windows to avoid missing out.
• Transportation costs to and from attractions aren’t included, so budget for that separately.
• Food and drinks are also not included, so consider grabbing meals at Navy Pier or nearby restaurants.
• The validity period means you can take your time, but keep track of the start date to make the most of your 30 days.

Who Should Use the Chicago Explorer Pass?

This pass is ideal for independent travelers who want flexibility, allowing them to customize their sightseeing without the pressure of fixed tour times. It’s perfect for families and groups that enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, museums, and iconic landmarks, with savings helping to stretch your vacation budget.

History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and culture lovers will find value in the included sites, especially the Wright houses, the Chicago History Museum, and the Art Museum. Adventure seekers and kids will appreciate the combo of outdoor fun, such as biking and LEGOLAND, with indoor attractions like the Museum of Illusions and the Children’s Museum.

However, if your trip timeline is tight or you prefer guided tours with less planning, individual tickets or guided group tours might be better suited. Also, those who don’t like booking in advance or are wary of technical hiccups should consider whether the digital reservation process suits them.

FAQ

Do I need to print my pass or can I use it on my phone?
You can use your digital pass directly on your mobile device, making it easy to access and scan at the attractions.

Are reservations required for all attractions?
Reservations are needed for Skydeck Chicago and 360 Chicago Observation Deck. It’s best to book these early using the provided PDF and app links.

How long is the pass valid once activated?
Your pass is valid for 30 days from the date you start using it, giving you plenty of flexibility to plan your visits.

Can I visit multiple attractions in one day?
Yes, especially if you choose fewer attractions or spread them out over several days, the pass encourages a relaxed, self-paced exploration.

Are transportation costs included?
No, transportation to/from attractions is not included, so budget for taxis, rideshare, or public transit separately.

Can I get a refund if I change my mind?
No, the pass is non-refundable and cannot be changed once purchased, so plan carefully.

To sum it up, the Chicago Explorer Pass offers a robust, flexible toolkit for making the most of your time in the Windy City. It’s especially well-suited for adventurous, independent travelers eager to hit multiple landmarks while saving money. The wide variety of attractions means you can tailor your trip to your interests, whether it’s jaw-dropping views from the Skydeck, fascinating museums, or outdoor activities. However, advance reservations and planning are essential to avoid disappointment, especially at the most popular sites.

If you enjoy curating your own experience and value getting good bang for your buck, this pass is worth considering. For those who prefer the comfort of guided tours or have a very tight schedule, it might require some extra planning. Either way, it’s an excellent way to turn your Chicago visit into a memorable, multi-faceted adventure—one that balances fun, education, and a bit of thrill.