easy
3–4 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves walking short distances between stops and sitting on the bus.
Taste Chicago’s diverse pizza culture on guided tours that blend history, local stories, and iconic pies. Whether downtown or in Bucktown, Chicago Pizza Tours promises a savory walk through the city’s best slices.
Chicago Pizza Tours offers a uniquely flavorful way to navigate the heart of Chicago, Illinois, by following the trail of its iconic pizza heritage. Positioned in downtown Chicago and neighborhoods like Bucktown, this company crafts immersive culinary journeys that combine history, local culture, and some of the city’s most beloved pies. From the Original Chicago Pizza Tour to thematic crawls focused on specific districts or corporate groups, their experiences go beyond casual tastings — they bring the city's pizza narrative to life.
Chicago itself is a city known for its distinct deep-dish style, a culinary invention echoing the layered character of the city’s neighborhoods. Unlike a typical food tour, Chicago Pizza Tours uses vintage school buses to transport participants between stops, adding a nostalgic flair while offering comfort and practicality. Each stop offers a different style and flavor, from the classic buttery crusts typical of Lou Malnati’s family’s legacy to innovative pies crafted by rising local pizza makers.
Guides like James and Jon serve as walking encyclopedias, sharing stories of local pizza pioneers, family legacies, and Chicago’s evolving tastescape. Guests frequently highlight the entertaining and knowledgeable tour leadership, alongside the generous portions that ensure no one finishes hungry. These tours suit not only visitors looking to understand Chicago’s culinary identity but also locals seeking deeper appreciation of their city’s food roots.
This adventure supports a slow, immersive style of city touring that connects people with Chicago’s culture through its flavors and shared experiences. For anyone drawn to urban food culture or wanting a fresh angle on sightseeing, Chicago Pizza Tours presents an engaging, approachable, and satisfying way to taste and learn simultaneously. Its blend of culinary education, history, and local vibe secures its place among Chicago’s memorable food experiences.
Portions are generous at each stop—pace yourself to fully enjoy every style of pizza offered on the tour.
The tours cover multiple locations with short walks in between; sturdy, comfortable footwear makes the day more enjoyable.
Arriving on time ensures a smooth boarding experience for the bus transport and secures your spot in group seating.
Guides offer rich stories about Chicago’s pizza legacy—engage with them to deepen your experience.
Chicago's pizza scene evolved from Italian immigrants in mid-20th century neighborhoods, creating the city's iconic deep-dish style.
The tours encourage sustainable transportation between stops and support local businesses to foster community-based tourism.
Supportive footwear for city sidewalks and short walks between pizza venues.
Layering protects you during unpredictable Chicago weather.
spring|fall|winter specific
Stay hydrated especially when touring in warmer months.
summer specific
Handy for personal items and any take-home souvenirs.