Open Your Eyes: Chicago's Underground Pedway & Other Secrets of the Loop | Walking Tour in Chicago, Illinois | Walking Tour | City Tour

Read the full experience

Discover Chicago like never before with the 'Open Your Eyes: Chicago's Underground Pedway & Other Secrets of the Loop' walking tour by Inside Chicago Walking Tours. This immersive experience takes you beneath the city's bustling streets, revealing an intricate network of underground tunnels, hidden passageways, and fascinating secret spots that most visitors never see. As you stroll through the pedestrian-friendly Pedway system, you’ll learn about its history, purpose, and the quirky stories behind these underground corridors connecting malls, offices, and transit hubs. The tour also uncovers lesser-known architectural gems and historic sites scattered throughout downtown Chicago, making it a perfect adventure for history buffs and curious explorers alike. You'll see iconic landmarks from a fresh perspective while discovering cozy cafes, secret entrances, and artistic murals hidden away from the crowds. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this journey provides new insights into the city’s development and urban design. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you'll spend approximately 2-3 hours exploring the city’s underground and street-level secrets. Make sure to bring your sense of curiosity and a camera to capture some of Chicago’s best-kept secrets. This tour is ideal year-round, offering a unique way to explore the city, whatever the season. Get ready to open your eyes and see Chicago through a different lens!

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2–3 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate walking involved

Frequently asked questions

Is the tour suitable for kids?

Yes, the tour is appropriate for children, especially those interested in urban history and architecture, but it involves some walking and indoor segments.

What should I wear?

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and dress appropriately for the weather, whether that’s rain gear, layers, or sun protection.

How long does the tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, covering both indoor and outdoor parts of the city.

Are there any age restrictions?

There are no specific age restrictions, but young children should be supervised due to indoor and outdoor walking segments.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?

Most of the tour passes through accessible routes, but please contact the provider in advance to discuss specific needs.

What COVID-19 precautions are in place?

The tour follows local health guidelines, including masks and sanitization measures, to ensure safety for all participants.

Local insights

Wildlife

Pigeons
City squirrels

History

The Chicago Pedway system was developed in the 1950s to connect buildings and provide safe passage for pedestrians during harsh weather conditions, shaping the city’s underground urban experience.

Conservation

The tour emphasizes sustainable urban exploration by highlighting eco-friendly building designs and encouraging respect for the city’s historic sites.

About Inside Chicago Walking Tours

Inside Chicago Walking Tours offers immersive, expert-led walking tours across Chicago, Illinois, showcasing the city's film locations, architecture, history, neighborhoods, and seasonal celebrations. Tours include 2-hour experiences such as Lights, Camera, Alleys: Chicago in the Movies, a movie-focused walk through iconic filming locations led by a passionate movie expert; Haunted by Our Dark Side: Chicago Ghosts, Gangsters, and True Crime Tour, a spine-chilling exploration of haunted history and notorious events; Chicago in the Roaring '20s: Art Deco, Flappers, Gangsters, & Prohibition, which highlights Art Deco architecture and Prohibition-era stories; and The World Within (Part Two): Secret Interiors of the Riverfront, revealing glamorous Art Deco details and vaulted lobbies along the Chicago River. Other offerings include From Great to Grave: Architectural Masters in Life & Death (Graceland Cemetery Tour), which combines architectural history with visits to Graceland Cemetery gravesites; Two Truths & a Lie: Debunking Architecture Tour Myths & Urban Legends, an interactive myth-busting format supported by architect insights; The Christmas Tree Crawl: The Magic of Chicago at the Holidays, a seasonal pop-up tour that uncovers decorations, traditions, and warm indoor stops; and Chicago by Red Line: Chinatown, a neighborhood-focused trip ending in Chinatown’s culinary area. Tours emphasize close-up views, secret interiors, nostalgic film trivia, and historical storytelling. Guides reference primary sources, architectural records, and on-site observations to ensure accurate storytelling for guests of all interests alike.

Base locationChicago, Illinois

Tours offered14+

SpecialtyAdventure Experience

Adventure tips

Wear comfortable walking shoesYou'll be exploring both underground tunnels and street-level streets, so comfortable shoes are essential.

Bring a cameraCapture the unique architecture, murals, and secret passageways that make this tour special.

Check the weather forecastWhile much of the tour is indoors, some segments are outdoor, so be prepared for rain or shine.

Arrive earlyGetting to the meeting point a few minutes early ensures you don’t miss any part of the tour.

Recommended gear

Comfortable walking shoes: You'll be walking for a couple of hours through indoor and outdoor parts of Chicago, so supportive shoes are a must.
Light rain jacket or umbrella: Be prepared for possible weather changes, especially during spring and fall.
Camera or smartphone: Capture the hidden murals, architecture, and unique passageways along the route.
Water bottle: Stay hydrated during your walk, especially on warm days.

Photos of the experience

Open Your Eyes: Chicago's Underground Pedway & Other Secrets of the Loop | Walking Tour in Chicago, Illinois photo 1

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Open Your Eyes: Chicago's Underground Pedway & Other Secrets of the Loop | Walking Tour in Chicago, Illinois

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