Weird Chicago Tours: Haunted & Historical Pub Crawls in Chicago - Chicago

Weird Chicago Tours: Haunted & Historical Pub Crawls in Chicago

Chicagoeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; requires some standing and walking during stops.

Overview

Weird Chicago Tours invites you into the city's shadows with haunted pub crawls and true crime narratives. Discover Chicago’s Prohibition-era secrets, ghost stories, and historic landmarks with lively guides who bring these stories to life.

Details

Chicago’s streets pulse with stories that go beyond the usual landmarks and lakefront blues. Weird Chicago Tours offers a distinctive way to experience the city’s darker chapters and spirited undercurrents through immersive themed pub crawls and historical bus and walking tours. Centered in downtown Chicago, this collection of adventures threads together crime, hauntings, and Prohibition-era secrets—the perfect fit for visitors eager to engage with the city's raw, authentic character.

The city itself, steeped in 20th-century notoriety, is the stage for tours like the Al Capone Daydrinker's Pub Crawl and the Roaring 20’s Speakeasy Tour. These journeys take riders and walkers alike through iconic neighborhoods where Prohibition-era gangsters, illicit speakeasies, and the legendary Chicago Outfit once thrived. On the Haunted History Bus or Downtown Walking Tours, the chilling echoes of spirits and unsolved mysteries are voiced by guides who blend facts, storytelling, and humor to captivate audiences. Stops like the Congress Hotel or Hyde Park ramp up the suspense with tales tied to historical landmarks and eerie events.

What sets Weird Chicago Tours apart is its balance of education and entertainment. Tour guides such as Eric and Kevin bring energy and local knowledge, often involving visitors with reenactments or heartwarming stories that humanize this city’s notorious past. Whether it’s the mysterious Devil in the White City narrative or the pulsating vibe inside a historic brewery, these trips transform Chicago’s streets into open-air theaters of crime, history, and folklore.

Perfect for both longtime locals and first-time visitors, these tours respond to curiosity about Chicago’s grittier side while delivering a social, engaging atmosphere. Practical details like weather readiness and knowing the locations of restrooms are emphasized, ensuring every rider stays comfortable. If you’re drawn to true crime, ghost stories, or the underbelly of America’s gangster era, Weird Chicago Tours offers a distinct gateway into a side of Chicago few get to see. It’s more than a night out—it’s a dive into the city’s compelling shadows and secrets.

Adventure Tips

Dress for the Weather

You'll spend time outdoors at stops during walking and bus tours, so layer accordingly to stay comfortable.

Use Restrooms Beforeboarding

Plan ahead—the bus tours include only one restroom stop, typically near the pickup point at McDonald's.

Arrive Early for Check-In

Arriving 10-15 minutes before your tour start ensures you get a good seat and time to settle in.

Bring a Portable Charger

Extend your phone's battery life to capture photos and notes throughout the tours without running out of power.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Historic basements of speakeasies with original 1920s decor
  • Lesser-known haunted alleyways near the Red Light District

Wildlife

  • Common city birds like pigeons and crows
  • Urban squirrels frequenting downtown parks

History

Chicago’s reputation as a Prohibition-era stronghold shaped its architecture and nightlife, with figures like Al Capone influencing culture and crime history.

Conservation

Tours focus on responsible urban tourism by encouraging use of public transportation and minimizing waste during pub and walking stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Evening during twilight
Midday for architectural details

Best Viewpoints

  • Congress Hotel exterior
  • Downtown Chicago skyline from the bus
  • Historic tavern interiors on pub crawls

What to Photograph

Ghostly landmarks
Historic buildings
Lively tour participants in costume

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Necessary for walking segments during the tours and navigating urban sidewalks.

Layered clothing

Essential

Allows quick adjustment to Chicago’s changing weather, especially during outdoor stops.

spring|fall|winter specific

Small backpack or bag

Handy for carrying water, snacks, and extra layers without hassle.

Portable phone charger

Essential

Ensures your phone stays powered for photos, videos, and navigation.

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