Chicago: 360 CHICAGO & Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour (Save 20%)

If you’re planning a visit to Chicago and want to make the most of your time, this combined experience offers a smart way to see the city from multiple angles. It pairs a flexible, open-top double-decker bus tour with a visit to the famous 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck, including an optional TILT experience.

What makes this tour appealing? For starters, you get to explore Chicago’s landmarks at your own pace on the hop-on hop-off bus, while the 360 CHICAGO observation deck provides a breathtaking view from 1,000 feet above street level. We particularly appreciated the ease of access to major sights and the chance to enjoy Chicago’s skyline from both ground level and sky-high.

A possible consideration? The bus schedules can sometimes be affected by city traffic, which could lead to longer wait times or delays. Also, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your start point accordingly.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible way to see Chicago without feeling rushed—ideal for first-timers eager for iconic views and quick access to top landmarks.

Key Points

• Flexible Exploration: Hop on and off a double-decker bus at numerous stops across the city.
• Stunning Views: Elevated experience at 360 CHICAGO with the option of TILT for a thrill.
• Rich Commentary: Digital multilingual guides enhance your understanding of Chicago’s sights.
• Convenient Access: Tickets are valid for 48 hours, allowing plenty of time to explore.
• Authentic Landmarks: See the Bean, Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and more.
• Cost-Effective: Combining the bus tour with the observation deck saves money and time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-depth Look at the Experience

The Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: Exploring Chicago at Your Own Pace

The core of this package is the big bus ride that takes you through Chicago’s most famous neighborhoods and attractions. With a 48-hour pass, you have two days to hop on and off at your leisure, which is a considerable advantage for travelers wanting to customize their sightseeing schedule.

The buses are open-air, double-decker, and equipped with professional digital commentary in multiple languages, with free earbuds provided. This commentary isn’t just filler; it’s packed with interesting facts about Chicago’s architecture, culture, and history. Whether you’re new to the city or a seasoned visitor, hearing expert insights makes the experience more enriching.

You’ll find the buses run roughly every 30 minutes, which is quite convenient, but some reviews note that city traffic can occasionally lead to longer waits or buses that are temporarily stuck. The app for real-time tracking is a helpful feature, especially if you’re eager to catch the next bus without waiting around.

Stops and Landmarks: What You’ll See

The bus route covers Chicago’s top sights, allowing you to hop off at places like Millennium Park, home to the iconic Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), and the Chicago Riverwalk, perfect for a relaxed stroll. Other stops include the Museum Campus, Navy Pier, and the Magnificent Mile — Chicago’s premier shopping and dining district.

Some travelers have appreciated the route’s efficiency, noting that “the bus hit all the places we wanted to see,” and the frequency made it very convenient. However, others have mentioned that busy traffic sometimes results in delays, so patience is key.

The 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck: A Sky-High Perspective

Once you’ve enjoyed the ground-level sights, the second part of the experience takes you high above on the 94th floor of the recently renamed 875 N Michigan Ave — formerly the John Hancock Center. The elevator ride alone is fast and exciting, whisking you 1,000 feet into the sky.

At the top, the panoramic views of Chicago’s skyline, Lake Michigan, and surrounding areas are genuinely spectacular. If you’re craving a little extra adrenaline, you can upgrade onsite to experience TILT, a hydraulic glass ride that leans you completely outside of the building, giving a unique perspective of the city below. Several reviews highlight the stunning vistas, with one traveler saying, “Thanks to the building’s location, it’s even better than the Willis Tower Skydeck.”

The observation deck also features the CloudBar, a sleek lounge perfect for relaxing with a drink while soaking in the views. Many visitors find this part of the tour a highlight, with its combination of thrill and relaxation.

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Tickets and Practicalities

Your ticket grants access to both experiences, with no need to worry about long lines—they can be skipped with pre-booked tickets. The 48-hour validity window offers flexibility, letting you explore during day or evening hours, or even multiple days if desired.

While the tour is wheelchair accessible, note that there’s no hotel pickup included, so plan your start point accordingly. The tour is priced at $84 per person, which we find reasonable considering the two-day bus access and the observation deck entry, especially if you take advantage of the 20% discount.

Authentic and Fun: What Travelers Say

Many reviews praise the stunning views from the observation deck, with comments like “Best view in Chicago” and “It’s even better than the Willis Tower Skydeck.” The bus route also receives praise for its comprehensive coverage and the convenience of hop-on-hop-off flexibility.

Some travelers have experienced minor frustrations, such as delays or issues with the bus schedule, but overall, the experience is viewed as worth the investment. One review noted that “the bus arrived every half hour, which was very convenient,” emphasizing the efficiency of the service.

Others appreciated the digital commentary, stating it made the sights much more engaging and educational. A few, however, noted that the tour could improve in terms of multiple language options, as French was not available during their visit.

Why This Tour Works for You

If you’re a traveler who values flexibility, the ability to explore at your own pace on a well-covered route is ideal. The stunning skyline views from 360 CHICAGO are a highlight, perfect for capturing memorable photos or simply marveling at the cityscape.

The combination of a ground-level tour and sky-high experience offers a well-rounded perspective on Chicago’s urban fabric. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors who want a rundown without the hassle of figuring out public transportation or navigating on foot.

In sum, this tour balances convenience, value, and authentic Chicago experiences—making it a smart choice for those who want an enjoyable, memorable visit.

The Sum Up

This combined tour offering from Big Bus is a solid way to see Chicago’s best sights in a flexible, enjoyable manner. The hop-on hop-off bus allows you to customize your sightseeing, while the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck provides awe-inspiring views that will stay with you long after your trip ends.

While city traffic can sometimes cause delays, the overall experience remains highly worthwhile. The included digital commentary enriches your understanding, and the option to upgrade at the deck for TILT adds a fun, adrenaline-pumping twist.

We recommend this experience most for first-time visitors, families, or anyone eager to get a broad sense of Chicago’s neighborhoods and skyline. Especially if you’re keen on stunning vistas and flexible sightseeing, it’s a combination that balances value and memorable moments.

FAQ

How long is the bus tour valid?
Your ticket is valid for 48 hours, giving you plenty of flexibility to explore at your own pace across two days.

Can I hop on and off multiple times?
Yes, the ticket grants unlimited hop-on hop-off access during the 48-hour window, so you can explore different neighborhoods at your leisure.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The bus is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for all travelers to enjoy the route. However, the observation deck’s accessibility isn’t specified, so it’s worth checking if you have specific needs.

Are the buses crowded?
While the buses run frequently, some delays due to city traffic have been reported. During peak times, buses might be busier but still comfortable.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You need to meet at designated stops, such as Stop #1 at 98 E Wacker Dr.

What is TILT, and how much does it cost to upgrade?
TILT is a hydraulic glass ride that leans you outside of the building for a unique view of the city. It can be added onsite at 360 CHICAGO for an additional fee.

What landmarks can I expect to see on the bus route?
Major sights include Millennium Park, Navy Pier, the Chicago Riverwalk, the Magnificent Mile, and the Museum Campus.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the experience is family-friendly, especially with the flexibility to explore at your own pace and enjoy the breathtaking views.

What languages are available for the digital commentary?
The commentary is offered in English and Spanish; other languages are not specified but check ahead if needed.

This tour offers a balanced blend of ground-level exploration and sky-high vistas, perfect for making the most of your Chicago adventure without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: