IPW 2025

Cruisin’ Chicago: The Big Bus Tour of Iconic Sights

Experience Chicago’s top landmarks on this unforgettable Big Bus tour. Cruise down Lake Shore Drive, soak in the charm of Lincoln Park, and take in breathtaking skyline views from the 94th floor of 360 CHICAGO. Sip a cocktail before daring to TILT, a thrilling glass platform that extends over the city. Then, hop off at Navy Pier, home to the iconic Centennial Wheel, offering panoramic views of the lake and skyline. Wrap up the adventure with Flyover Chicago, an all-new multi-sensory experience that brings the city to life. 

Special thank you to our partners: Big Bus Tours Chicago, Navy Pier, 360 Chicago Observatory  

Canvas to Skyline: Design Chicago

A must for design enthusiasts, this immersive tour explores Chicago’s architectural and artistic treasures. Experience a private tour of the Art Institute of Chicago, home to a world-class collection spanning over 5,000 years of art. Visit the Chicago Architecture Center and stroll along the scenic River Walk. Board First Lady for a guided architectural cruise, where an expert docent shares the stories behind the city’s iconic skyline.

Special thank you to our partners: First Lady, Chicago Architecture Center, Art Institute of Chicago 

Take Me Out to the Ball Game: A Cubs Game Day Experience

Batter up! Experience the excitement of a Chicago Cubs game at the legendary Wrigley Field. Nicknamed the “Friendly Confines,” this iconic ballpark—the second oldest in Major League Baseball—is famed for its ivy-covered outfield and hand-operated scoreboard. After you’ve hit it out of the park that morning at the press brunch, stay on to enjoy the afternoon matchup against the Pittsburgh Pirates at 1:20 PM. 

Special thank you to our partners: Wrigley Field, Chicago Cubs 

Lights, Camera, Chicago!

Step into the spotlight and explore Chicago’s most iconic filming locations. Relive scenes from iconic movies and shows like Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, The Dark Knight, The Untouchables, The Bear, and more. Snap photos at the Willis Tower, stroll through Millennium Park, and admire the Art Institute of Chicago—all while uncovering how these landmarks became Hollywood icons. Then, go behind the scenes at Cinespace, the production hub for Chicago PD, Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, The Chi, Shameless, and other fan-favorite films and shows. 

Special thank you to our partners: On Location Tours, Cinespace, Millennium Park, Art Institute of Chicago 

Blues & Beyond: Chicago Soundscapes

From Chicago-style jazz to amplified blues and house music created right in Chicago, the city’s sound is as iconic as its skyline. Explore Chicago’s rich musical heritage through legendary venues, historic stages, and vibrant dance floors. Feel the rhythm of the city with live performances, meet local musicians, and immerse yourself in the unmistakable energy of Chicago’s one-of-a-kind music scene.

Center Stage: Chicago’s Theatrical Tour

Experience the magic of Chicago’s legendary theater and performing arts scene. Laugh out loud at The Second City, the iconic comedy club that launched improv into the spotlight. Snap a selfie under the dazzling Chicago Theatre marquee, tour a historic performing arts venue, and step inside a theater where Broadway in Chicago productions take center stage. From comedy to drama, this tour puts you in the front row of Chicago’s vibrant stage scene. 

Malt Row to Goose Island: Chicago’s Breweries & Distilleries

Chicago is a paradise for beer lovers, and this tour is the ultimate toast to its thriving craft scene. Sip your way through Malt Row, home to over 10 independent brewers, with stops at Dovetail Brewery and Koval Distillery, a pioneer in local craft spirits. Then, raise a glass at Goose Island’s newest location at the Salt Shed, one of the city’s most iconic breweries. Cheers to Chicago’s legendary pours! 

Pride & Progress: A Walk Through Chicago’s LGBTQ+ History

Dive into Chicago’s rich LGBTQ+ history and vibrant culture on this dynamic tour. Begin in Andersonville, one of the city’s largest LGBTQ+ communities, where you’ll be dazzled by jaw-dropping performances at the Chicago Magic Lounge—paired with spellbinding craft cocktails. Then, head to Northalsted, the nation’s first officially recognized LGBTQ+ neighborhood, to explore its historic roots and walk the inspiring Legacy Walk. Cap off the day with show-stopping drag performances at the iconic Kit Kat Lounge. 

Southside Soul Tour: Voices of the Southside

Experience the heart and soul of Chicago’s South Side, a vibrant hub of history, art, music, and culture. This immersive tour takes you through Hyde Park, home to the University of Chicago and a thriving arts scene and Bronzeville, the historic epicenter of Chicago’s Black Renaissance and jazz legacy. Plus, get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the highly anticipated Obama Presidential Center, a transformative museum, library, and community space set to open in 2026.

Boutiques and Top Brands: Chicago’s Famous Shopping Districts

Discover Chicago’s dynamic shopping scene, from trendy neighborhood boutiques to world-renowned luxury stores. Start in Wicker Park and Bucktown, two artsy, vibrant neighborhoods where you’ll find unique, one-of-a-kind treasures and always something cool happening. Then, make your way to The Magnificent Mile, one of the world’s most iconic shopping destinations. This bustling stretch is packed with upscale shops, stylish new restaurants, and historic landmarks like the Chicago Water Tower, all along one legendary avenue.

The Ultimate Museum Tour: Chicago’s Art & History

Explore fascinating exhibits at Chicago’s world-renowned museums, from iconic institutions to hidden gems. View cutting-edge works at the Museum of Contemporary Art and go behind the scenes of Chicago’s legendary sports teams at the interactive Chicago Sports Museum, where the city’s rich sports history comes to life. Then, soak it all in at the scenic lakefront Museum Campus, home to the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium. 

Skyline to Shoreline: Chicago by Air and Water

Experience the best of Chicago from its sandy shores to its soaring skyline on this unforgettable tour. Start by soaking up the sunshine on a pristine lakefront beach, where the 18-mile-long Lakefront Trail offers a scenic route for pedestrians and leads to picturesque beach bars. For those looking to get on the water, paddle away with a kayak or stand-up paddleboard along the shimmering lakefront. Then, take to the skies for a breathtaking helicopter tour, offering unparalleled views of the city’s iconic skyline.

Discover the 77: Chicago’s Neighborhoods

Embark on a journey through the vibrant tapestry of Chicago’s diverse communities, inspired by the award-winning The 77 travel series. This immersive tour highlights Little Village, known as the “Mexico of the Midwest,” where authentic cuisine and bustling markets bring Mexican culture to life. Explore Pilsen, a neighborhood bursting with colorful murals, rich Hispanic heritage, and a thriving arts scene. Then, step into Chinatown, a cultural cornerstone of Chicago for over a century, where traditional architecture, family-run shops, and authentic flavors showcase the neighborhood’s deep-rooted history. 

Yes Chef, The Bear Food Tour

Fans of the hit show The Bearwon’t want to miss this immersive foodie experience. Follow in the footsteps of Carmy, Sydney, and Richie as you visit real-life spots featured in the show, including the legendary Mr. Beef. Along the way, explore some of Chicago’s top restaurant neighborhoods and indulge in delicious bites at eateries that appeared in the series.  Whether you’re a foodie, a TV buff, or just craving an unforgettable culinary adventure, this tour of Chicago’s world-renowned food scene is a must! 

The Ultimate Road Trip: The History of Route 66 in Chicago

Get your kicks on Route 66—where the ultimate American road trip begins! This fun and informative trolley tour takes you through the fascinating history of “The Mother Road,” one of the world’s most famous highways. Discover how Route 66 shaped Chicago’s landscape as you explore its starting point, visit top roadside attractions, and learn about the neighborhoods it touches. From classic landmarks to hidden gems, this journey brings the spirit of Route 66 to life in the city where it all began. 

Bikes, Bites & Brews: Chicago’s Signature Dishes Bike Tour

Pedal your way through Chicago’s iconic neighborhoods on this one-of-a-kind bike tour, combining scenic views, delicious eats, and local brews. Ride through the historic Gold Coast mansions, Old Town Historic District, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Wrigleyville, and along Chicago’s stunning lakefront. Along the way, indulge in Chicago’s most famous flavors—including deep-dish pizza, a classic Chicago-style hot dog, sweet treats, and a few pours from the city’s renowned craft beer scene. With plenty of bites and brews to keep you fueled, this tour makes working up an appetite part of the adventure!