The Magnificent Mile

Top Chicago activities

Explore by category

Top Chicago landmarks

Top Chicago landmarks
Top Chicago landmark tickets
Nearby to The Magnificent Mile

Beyond Chicago

Tours in nearby places
Explore USA tours
Tours in similar places

Chicago trip ideas

Chicago travel articles
Chicago itineraries
Top 15 things to do in ...

Home
Things to do in USA
Things to do in Illinois
Things to do in Chicago
The Magnificent Mile Tours

The Magnificent Mile in Chicago on a warm spring day

The Magnificent Mile in Chicago on a warm spring day

The Magnificent Mile Tours and Tickets

15,086 reviews

Fashion, architecture, and history in Chicago come together on this renowned stretch of Michigan Avenue nicknamed the Magnificent Mile. As you walk from the Chicago River to Oak Street, you’ll pass several Windy City landmarks, including the Water Tower, John Hancock Center, and Tribune Tower, as well as numerous luxury brand retailers.

Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, 60611

Tours & Tickets

Tours and Tickets to Experience The Magnificent Mile

Sightseeing Tours

Historical Tours

Architecture Tours

When are you traveling?

Chicago Categories

All Chicago Tours

Art & Culture Classes

Painting Classes

Architecture Tours

Archaeology Tours

Costume Dress Up Experiences

Historical Tours

Photography Tours

Street Art Tour

Shows & Performances

Adults-only Shows

Dinner and Show Tickets

Family-friendly Shows

Classes & Workshops

Active & Outdoor Classes

Art & Culture Classes

Painting Classes

Food & Drink Classes

Cooking Classes

Mixology Classes

Desserts & Sweets

Chocolate Tours

Donut Walking Tour

Dining Experiences

Dinner and Show Tickets

Food & Drink Classes

Cooking Classes

Mixology Classes

Donut Walking Tour

Street Food Tours

Wine, Beer & Spirits

Beer & Brewery Tours

Likely To Sell Out

Outdoor Activities

Active & Outdoor Classes

Helicopter Tours

Nature and Wildlife Tours

Mountain Bike Tours

Scavenger Hunts

Jet Boat Rentals

Sightseeing Cruises

Speed Boat Rentals

Water Equipment Rentals

Seasonal & Special Occasions

Independence Day

National Holidays

Weddings & Celebrations

Honeymoon Packages

Tickets & Passes

Amusement Parks

Attractions & Museums

Museum Tickets & Passes

Shows & Performances

Adults-only Shows

Dinner and Show Tickets

Family-friendly Shows

Sporting Events

Baseball Tickets

Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

Cruises & Sailing

Ports of Call Tours

Shore Excursions

Sightseeing Cruises

How to Get Around

Classic Car Tours

Helicopter Tours

Limousine Tours

Luxury Car Tours

Mountain Bike Tours

Public Transportation Tours

Self-guided Tours

Speed Boat Rentals

Private and Luxury

Sightseeing Tours

Adventure Tours

Hop on Hop Off Buses

Observation Decks

Private Sightseeing Tours

Sightseeing Cruises

Sightseeing Passes

Skip the line Tickets

Skyscrapers & Towers

Tours by Duration

Multi-day Tours

Travel & Transportation Services

Airport & Hotel Transfers

Private Drivers

Transportation Rentals

Transportation Services

Unique Experiences

Time of Day

Morning

Starts before 12pm

Afternoon

Starts after 12pm

Evening and night

Starts after 5pm

Duration

Up to 1 hour

1 to 4 hours

4 hours to 1 day

1 to 3 days

Price

$0

$500+

Rating

& up

& up

Specials

Deals & Discounts

Free Cancellation

Likely to Sell Out

Skip-The-Line

37 results

Revenue may affect this sort order

Likely to Sell Out

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Get a front row perspective on the exquisite buildings that line the Chicago River during a 45-minute architecture cruise. Hear live commentary about the history and architectural heritage of Chicago on this family-friendly tour, which highlights landmarks such as the Chicago Riverwalk, Michigan Avenue Bridge, Wrigley Building, and Willis Tower. Sit on the open-air top deck or the sheltered bottom deck for the ultimate view of Chicago.

45 minutes
Free Cancellation

Likely to Sell Out

Chicago River 90-Minute History and Architecture Tour

Chicago River 90-Minute History and Architecture Tour

Discover the architectural gems of the Windy City from an ideal vantage point on a cruise down the Chicago River. Offered several times throughout the day, it’s easy to fit the leisurely excursion into your itinerary. Covering more than 130 years of architectural history, the tour is the perfect opportunity to see a huge area of the city without the hassle of taxis and public transit.

1 hour 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

Likely to Sell Out

Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

Step aboard a boat for a comprehensive cruise that details the history of Chicago's architecture. Enjoy views of the Chicago skyline accompanied by architecture-focused commentary that points out each of the landmark buildings. As you cruise through Lake Michigan, snap photos of you and your party against the stretch of Chicago's 26-mile shoreline.

1 hour 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour

Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour

Don’t spend time figuring out what to see in Chicago and how to get there—this hop-on hop-off tour provides a mapped-out itinerary of the city's top sights. With several strategically located stops, the tour allows you to explore the Windy City at your own pace. See the world-class Art Institute and landmark skyscrapers, while audio commentary onboard gives you insight into the city's colorful history.

2 hours
Free Cancellation

Chicago River Cocktail Cruise

Chicago River Cocktail Cruise

When in Chicago, cruising down the Chicago River is a must. Except with us, you’ll be taking in the architecture of the buildings that line the beautiful river. We provide detailed explanations of the construction and history of over 50 significant buildings, wrapping up at the end of the river. The Chicago River Cocktail Cruise allows you to experience an architecture tour with a cocktail in your hand! Your cruise includes either one or two drinks, with your choice of premium spirits, beer, or wine. Additional drinks are available for purchase.

1 hour 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

Explore Chicago's gangster past on this mafia tour in a coach vehicle. Drive around the Windy City to see where Al Capone, The Untouchables, Hymie Weiss, and John Dillinger, among other thugs hung out. A history-savvy guide introduces you to some of the most storied locations of Chicago’s criminal past, including Holy Name Cathedral, Biography Theatre, and the site of the bloody St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. You'll be able to get out and pose for pictures in front of a historic courthouse, among other infamous sites.

1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
Free Cancellation

Chicago Walking Tour: The Magnificent Mile

Chicago Walking Tour: The Magnificent Mile

Learn all about the history beyond one of Chicago’s best-known thoroughfares—and spot numerous architectural icons as you go—on this small-group walking tour of the Magnificent Mile. Meet your guide at the Chicago Architecture Center and set off to soak up the street’s ambiance, and discover highlights like the Wrigley Building, John Hancock Center, and more. Entry to the Chicago Architecture Center is also included, so you can extend the experience.

1 hour 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

Stroll through downtown Chicago on this walking food tour. Visit Millennium Park, the Palmer House Hotel and other city landmarks. Taste quintessential Chicago foods such as deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, plus chocolates and pastry. All food tastings are included, and the tour covers an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km) suitable for most fitness levels. A bike or kayak rental is also included in the tour cost.

3 hours
Free Cancellation

Chicago Small-Group City Tour with Optional Architecture River Cruise

Chicago Small-Group City Tour with Optional Architecture River Cruise

Explore Chicago's iconic landmarks on this sightseeing tour led by an expert guide. Board a comfortable, large-windowed minibus and explore Downtown and North Side neighborhoods. You have a chance to get out and visit several locations and hear about the historical and cultural factors that make Chicago unique. Upgrade your tour with a popular open-top boat tour on the Chicago River that focuses on the city's renowned architecture.

2 to 4 hours
Free Cancellation

Chicago City Minibus Tour

Chicago City Minibus Tour

Get to know the Windy City the easy and comfortable way on a small-group minibus tour. Instead of long walks and navigating public transit, see major landmarks like Museum Campus, Buckingham Fountain, the Magnificent Mile, and Millennium Park from an uncrowded minibus with large picture windows. Your driver and guide knows where to find all the best views, and there are plenty of photo stops along the way.

2 hours
Free Cancellation

Chicago Murder Mystery Tour

Chicago Murder Mystery Tour

The Chicago Murder Mystery Tour is an interactive game and tour. Explore the city and solve a murder at the same time! Play as a detective and a suspect as you navigate one of the richest neighborhoods in the world, and learn about the real legends and crimes of Chicago!

2 hours
Free Cancellation

Lake Michigan 30-Minute Speedboat Ride

Lake Michigan 30-Minute Speedboat Ride

Zoom along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, zipping past famous landmarks as you go, during this exhilarating speedboat ride in Chicago. Climb aboard your 2,000-horsepower speed boat at Navy Pier, then hang on for the ride of a lifetime, as you zip past famous attractions like the Willis Tower, Grant Park, and Buckingham Fountain, pausing to learn a little about the history and architecture of the Windy City along the way.

30 minutes

Downtown Chicago Walking Pizza Tour

Downtown Chicago Walking Pizza Tour

Immerse yourself in the taste and culture of pizza on this Chicago walking tour that focuses on the food Chicago does best. You'll be with a group of 16, which gives you lots of access to your guide and time to ask questions. Sink your teeth into different styles—deep dish, grandma-style, Neapolitan, Roman, and pan style—then decide which one you like best.

2 to 3 hours
Free Cancellation

Likely to Sell Out

Chicago Pizza Tour

Chicago Pizza Tour

Enjoy Chicago’s only bus guided neighborhood pizza tour. Eat like a local as you travel off the beaten path into Chicago neighborhoods to savor the best pizza. Your local guide will teach you the science behind ingredient selection and baking as you sample slices from historic pizzerias. In just a few hours, you’ll leave stuffed, and with an understanding of why pizza is such an important part of Chicago’s culture.

3 hours 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

Likely to Sell Out

Lake Michigan Fireworks Cruise in Chicago

Lake Michigan Fireworks Cruise in Chicago

Step on board a cruise boat bound for the waters of Lake Michigan, enjoying the sunset from the boat deck. Step up to the cash bar for drinks and snacks and find a place on board for a view of the epic fireworks display. A boat on the lake is the best place for catching the full fireworks spectacle and making great photos and videos.

2 to 3 hours

Likely to Sell Out

Big Bus Chicago Sunset Tour

Big Bus Chicago Sunset Tour

See Chicago's dazzling skyscrapers lit up for the night during this 75-minute Big Bus tour. The entire loop takes passengers from Navy Pier, down the Magnificent Mile to Michigan Avenue, through the Museum Campus and around the architectural gems on the Loop skyline. Live and audio commentary available in English.

1 hour 15 minutes
Free Cancellation

Likely to Sell Out

Chicago: Architecture, History & Highlights Small Group Tour

Chicago: Architecture, History & Highlights Small Group Tour

The Windy City is known for its spectacular architecture and eclectic food scene. Experience both on this tour through the downtown that combines sights with nibbles. Take in famous landmarks like the Chicago Pedway, City Hall, Picasso Sculpture, Chicago Riverwalk, Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, Magnificent Mile, Millenium Park, and Cloud Gate on foot. Learn about the history of some of Chicago’s most well-known buildings while enjoying views of the Chicago River. Taste surprise local treats from two beloved city eateries during the tour.

2 hours 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

Likely to Sell Out

Bike Tour of Chicago's Lakefront Neighborhoods

Bike Tour of Chicago's Lakefront Neighborhoods

Pedal past the lakefront neighborhoods of Chicago's North Side on this bike tour of the Windy City. Follow a local guide along quiet streets, city parks and scenic beaches, starting at Lake Shore Drive and continuing along Rush Street and the Magnificent Mile. Catch a glimpse of the Playboy Mansion, Oprah’s penthouse and the Victorian houses of Old Town. Select from several departure times in the morning or afternoon.

3 hours
Free Cancellation

Chicago River Architecture Tour Aboard a Historic Yacht

Chicago River Architecture Tour Aboard a Historic Yacht

Cruise the river on a less crowed, small historic yacht! When in Chicago, cruising down the Chicago River is a must. Except with us, you’ll be taking in the architecture of the buildings that line the beautiful river. We provide detailed explanations of the construction and history of over 50 significant buildings, wrapping up at the end of the river.

1 hour 30 minutes
Free Cancellation

Chicago Riverwalk Self-Guided Walking Tour

Chicago Riverwalk Self-Guided Walking Tour

Explore the sights and skyscrapers of Chicago’s spectacular Riverwalk—and enjoy the most budget-friendly and flexible sightseeing experience around—on this self-led, smartphone walking tour. Upon booking, download the app and receive a password to access your tour; once it’s on your phone, it never expires. Set off at a time that works best for you: you’ll see highlights like the Merchandise Mart, Wrigley Building, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and much more.

1 to 2 hours
Free Cancellation

Private Chicago Architecture Tour

Private Chicago Architecture Tour

Ever since Chicago became the birthplace of the modern skyscraper, the city has been renowned for its architectural creativity and ingenuity. Led by an expert guide, explore some of the city’s most iconic buildings such as Sears Tower, The John Hancock Building, historic brownstones, and the homes of Oak Park designed by beloved architect Frank Lloyd Wright. You will be able to explore the insides of some locations on this completely customizable tour.

3 hours
Free Cancellation

Chicago Insta Walk with Digital and Polaroid Photoshoot

Chicago Insta Walk with Digital and Polaroid Photoshoot

Don’t leave Chicago without taking home professional digital and polaroid shots of your visit. Starting from the iconic Millennium Park, your photographer guide takes you to some of the city’s most photogenic landmarks to take photos of you that really pop—once it’s over, you can take home about 100 digital photos and five polaroid shots.

1 hour
Free Cancellation

Private Chicago Highlights Driving Tour

Private Chicago Highlights Driving Tour

Get an insider’s look at the Windy City’s most iconic monuments during this 3-hour private tour. Travel through Chicago aboard a private vehicle as you discover some of the city’s top neighborhoods, including the Loop, River North, the Magnificent Mile (along Michigan Avenue), Streeterville, the Gold Coast and much more. Your private driver-guide and vehicle, bottled water and round-trip hotel transport are all included.

3 hours

Price varies by group size

Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Self-Guided Tour

Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Self-Guided Tour

Take a deep dive into a deliriously delicious world, where lofty, flaky crusts brim with sweet tomato sauce and a brazen amount of melty, gooey cheese. No trip to Chicago is complete without indulging in its most iconic and original food – deep-dish pizza. You could spend hours researching which place is best, then queuing up for a table, and waiting patiently as the long baking time for these hefty pies ticks down. Or you could simply take a Finger Licking Chicago Deep-Dish Tour to enjoy not one, not two, but three legendary joints – all in one easy-breezy 2-hour outing. This self-guided excursion, which is exclusive to only your invited guests, provides immediate seating with VIP service at the four institutions most responsible for Chicago’s celebrated deep-dish reputation. Wait time is at a minimum, too, as these knife-and-fork pizzas, which normally take upwards of 45 minutes to bake, will arrive hot out of the oven to you in a mere 10 minutes.

2 hours

What are people saying about The Magnificent Mile

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

AMITA_X, Aug 2023

Amazing!

Dave was our amazing Tour Guy! And Also, Wendella was very upfront about safety and they didn’t play around! Viator made it easy to book!

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Adam_R, Nov 2023

Awesome experience

John, the tour guide, made this a very enjoyable experience. He was very knowledgeable about all of the buildings we traveled by and brought humor with everything as well! 10 out of 10 for sure

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Alaysia_P, Nov 2023

Great ride . Just cold

Loved the experience . Maybe add some heaters or free hand warmers . I really enjoyed the tour guide .

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Debbie_S, Nov 2023

Historical and Fun!!

Our tour guide was fabulous! He was both knowledgeable and entertaining! Thank you for that! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Manuel_G, Nov 2023

Awesome

Pleasant and knowledgeable staff. Booking and attending the tour was as smooth as it can be. Nice!!!

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Theresa_C, Nov 2023

A must do!

Guide was excellent! Gives you a different view and understanding of the wonders of architecture! A must do.

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Shawn_J, Nov 2023

Cold in Chicago

The architecture was amazing to see from the water side! Our tour guide Scott was funny and informative! Made a cold 45 minute tour fun!

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Elemer_E, Nov 2023

😍 love it

Learning and able to see Chicago’s architectural building 👍.great experience specially with my friends from Toronto Canada.

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Anna_D, Nov 2023

Chicago in November

The ride was beautiful and the captain was very knowledgeable!We enjoyed learning the history of this very interesting city!

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Erica_B, Nov 2023

Fantastic

The tour guide was terrific! I learned a lot about the architecture. I highly recommend. Longer tours take you to different locations.

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Amber_C, Nov 2023

A must do after dark!

John was a great host! Loved the tour. The lights at night were beautiful. It was a great experience.

Chicago Walking Tour: The Magnificent Mile

Sasha_C, Mar 2023

Knowledgeable and Friendly

The docent was very knowledgeable and friendly. I really enjoyed the walk. Lots of history at the Magnificent Mile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What's the best way to experience The Magnificent Mile?

A:

The best ways to experience The Magnificent Mile are:

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile
Chicago River 90-Minute History and Architecture Tour
Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour

More Tours in Chicago

Art & Culture
Audio Guides
Classes & Workshops
Food & Drink
Kid-Friendly
Likely To Sell Out
Outdoor Activities
Seasonal & Special Occasions
Tickets & Passes
Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises
Travel & Transportation Services
Unique Experiences

Things to do near Chicago

Things to do in Illinois
Things to do in Nashville
Things to do in Duluth
Things to do in Pittsburgh
Things to do in Toronto
Things to do in Niagara Falls & Around
Things to do in Niagara Falls
Things to do in Buffalo
Things to do in Branson
Things to do in Greenville
Things to do in Atlanta
Things to do in Washington DC
Things to do in Minnesota
Things to do in Ontario
Things to do in Missouri

More attractions near Chicago

Driehaus Museum
Pizzeria Uno
Lookingglass Theatre Company
Tribune Tower
Water Tower Place
Wrigley Building
Hard Rock Cafe Chicago
360 Chicago Observation Deck (Formerly John Hancock Observatory)
Chicago River
Chicago Riverwalk
House of Blues
Marina City
American Writers Museum
Chicago Theatre
Chicago Cultural Center

Trending attractions

Colosseum
Eiffel Tower
Hoover Dam
Louvre
Sagrada Familia
Statue of Liberty
Acropolis
Burj Khalifa
St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)
French Quarter
Roman Forum (Foro Romano)
Florence Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria dei Fiori)
Sistine Chapel (Cappella Sistina)
Edinburgh Castle
Na Pali Coast
Milan Duomo
Vatican Museums (Musei Vaticani)
Stanley Park
Molokini Crater
Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell'Accademia)

Help Center Customer Care Privacy and Cookies Statement About Viator News Viator blog

© 1997-2024 Viator, Inc.

Terms & Conditions