The open-top bus has about 11 stops and links the downtown Loop, the lakefront and Millennium Park. The best companion is the architecture river cruise, available as a combo, which shows the skyscrapers from the water. A Big Bus option includes admission to the 360 CHICAGO observation deck.
Our top pick: Chicago: Open-Top Hop-On Hop-Off Tour, 11 Stops
Chicago bus tickets compared
Chicago: Open-Top Hop-On Hop-Off Tour, 11 Stops
4.3/5 from over 1,500 reviews.
Chicago: Architecture Boat Tour & Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
4.3/5 from 69 reviews.
Why book online
- Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
- Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
- Mobile ticket on your phone
- Reviews from verified travelers
Season matters: open-top decks are cold from late autumn to early spring and some routes run less often. Check the schedule and dress warmly.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Chicago hop on hop off bus worth it?
Yes for a first visit, especially with the architecture river cruise. Downtown is walkable, but the bus saves time reaching the lakefront and outer stops.
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