Big Bus Chicago 48-Hour Hop-on, Hop-off Tour with Architecture Cruise
Overview
See Chicago your way with a 48‑hour hop‑on, hop‑off bus ticket + a 75‑min Shoreline Architecture Cruise. Explore world‑famous highlights, learn about the city’s iconic buildings, and save with one combo!
Included
Included
2 Day Hop-on, Hop-off
Included
Open-top double-decker buses
Included
See all the top Landmarks
Included
Pre-recorded commentary
Included
Self Guided Audio Tour
Included
Architecture Cruise
Included
Free Butterbeer Ice-cream from Harry Potter Store
Excluded
Excluded
Panoramic Night Tour
Important information
What is the child ticketing policy?
Child tickets are available for passengers aged between 3–12 years. Children 2 and under may travel free of charge. All children must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 16 .
On which days does the tour operate?
Big Bus Tours Chicago operates most days of the year, apart from Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Occasionally severe weather and special event days could affect our service.
Do I need to specify a travel date?
Yes - when booking, you must choose the date you’ll begin your Big Bus tour. If using a multi-day ticket, your days must be consecutive. Some inclusions (like cruises) may require you to book specific times after purchase.
How do I select my cruise time and departure point?
After booking, you’ll be prompted to choose your Shoreline Architecture Cruise departure time and pier (typically Michigan Avenue: 401 N Michigan Ave). Arrive 15 minutes early and present your confirmation to Shoreline staff.
Can I use the bus tour and cruise on separate days?
Yes! The bus ticket is valid for 48 hours, and the cruise can be taken on your selected date.
Is commentary available?
Yes! The hop-on, hop-off bus includes pre-recorded audio guides in English and Spanish. The Shoreline cruise features expert live narration.
Can I change my bus tour date?
Absolutely - your bus ticket is fully flexible with free date changes if your plans change.
What if I didn’t download my cruise pass?
You can show your booking confirmation email to a Big Bus Tours team member before heading to the cruise departure point.
Is the Big Bus tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes - Big Bus vehicles are wheelchair accessible and can accommodate wheelchairs up to 650 pounds. However, please note that the upper deck is not accessible. Accessibility at attractions along the route may vary and cannot be guaranteed.
How do I request a refund?
If you booked directly through Big Bus Tours, you can request a refund via the Big Bus Tours App or through the enquiry form at bigbustours.com/contact/CHI. For third-party bookings, please contact your original booking provider.
When does the bus tour run?
The Red Loop runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM with buses approximately every 30 minutes. A full loop takes about 2 hours.
Highlights
More information
Discover Chicago from land and water with this unbeatable combo. Enjoy a 48‑hour hop‑on, hop‑off Big Bus tour on the Red Loop to explore iconic stops like Millennium Park, Willis Tower, and Magnificent Mile at your pace. Then set sail on Shoreline Sightseeing’s 75‑minute Architecture Cruise, where expert guides bring Chicago’s skyline and engineering legacy to life. This combo also includes free Vox self‑guided walking tours and a fully flexible bus ticket — making it a smart, seamless way to experience the very best of the Windy City.