Chicago is a city packed with landmarks, neighborhoods, and architectural icons, and the Big Bus Chicago 48 Hour Essential Pass in Chicago, Illinois makes it easy to see it all without rushing. This flexible hop on hop off sightseeing bus experience allows riders to explore the city over two full days, traveling comfortably between Chicago’s most popular attractions while enjoying elevated views from an open top double decker bus.

The Big Bus Chicago Essential Pass offers the freedom to create a personalized itinerary while learning about the city along the way through engaging onboard commentary. Riders can hop off to explore famous locations, waterfront views, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods before continuing the journey when ready. Ideal for visitors who want more time to explore, this Chicago sightseeing bus experience provides a relaxed and convenient way to discover the Windy City.

Any restrictions to participate?

• Age: All age groups are welcome.

Who can you accommodate for?

• Children: Child tickets are available for children aged 3 to 12 years. Children aged 2 and under travel for free when accompanied by a paying adult. All children must be supervised by an adult (16+) throughout the tour.
• Individuals with disabilities: Select buses may offer wheelchair accessibility on the lower level. Guests with accessibility needs should confirm availability in advance.
• Languages: Audio guides are available in english or spanish.
• Pets: Pets are not permitted, except for service animals.

What to expect on the day of the experience?

• Duration: Valid for 48 hours
• What’s included:
  • Access to the Big Bus hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour
  • Stops at major landmarks and attractions
  • Virtual guide providing commentary, historical information, and interesting facts about the city
  • Audio guide and free headphones when you board the bus (or bring your own)
  • Panoramic views from the open-top double-decker bus
• Who will be present: A bus driver will operate the vehicle and guests from other bookings will join on board.
• Spectators: Not applicable; all riders must have a valid ticket.
• Photo/ video: Photography and video are encouraged during the tour.
• Specific rules to follow: Guests must remain seated while the bus is in motion and follow safety instructions provided by staff.

How to prepare?

• Weather dependency: The tour operates rain or shine. Upper deck seating is open-air, so weather conditions may affect comfort.
• Arrival: Arrive at any designated stop to begin the tour; boarding is based on seat availability.
• Parking: Parking availability varies by stop location; public transportation or nearby garages may be used.
• What to wear: Comfortable clothing and weather-appropriate attire, including sun protection or a light jacket.
• What to bring:
  • Valid ticket or mobile pass
  • Phone or camera
  • Water bottle
• Restrooms/ lockers/ changing rooms: Restrooms are not available on the bus but can be found at many tour stops throughout the city.

Anything else I should know before going on this experience?

• The hop-on hop-off format allows guests to explore attractions at their own pace before rejoining the tour.
• Seating on the open-top level is first come, first served.

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 14 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

If you have any unused Experience Vouchers, you can exchange them for anything else in our marketplace, no matter when. If you choose an experience that's more expensive, you'll need to pay the difference, but if you choose one that costs less, you'll receive a credit towards your next booking.

No refunds are allowed once the experience is booked, but you can reschedule up to 24 hours before your experience, for a date within a year of the original booking. To reschedule, contact the experience provider directly. No-shows or rescheduling less than 24 hours in advance means losing the value of your experience.