Top Frequently Asked Questions
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Is the audioguide available in my language?
- English
- Spanish
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What time do tours start and how often do the buses run?
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Where can I start the tour?
Where can I buy a ticket for the tour?
You can purchase tickets directly from our website or from a member of our Big Bus street sales team. Please note that for hygiene reasons we are unable to accept cash payments.
Is the audioguide available in my language?
Our Chicago bus tours feature location-synchronized audio guides, offering a fun and informative pre-recorded commentary in 2 languages, including:
Read more on our Tour Commentary page
What time do tours start and how often do the buses run?
Please visit our Service Information page for up-to-date information on tour start times and frequency.
Where can I start the tour?
You can board our day tour buses and start your Chicago sightseeing adventure from any of our bus stops.
More Questions & Answers
Do I need to choose a date for my tour?
Yes – when you book, you will need to select the date you’d like to hop on the bus. If you’re touring with us for more than one day, your ticket must be used across consecutive days, and the date you select at time of booking should be the first day of your tour. Some tours also require you to select a time of travel, to secure your seat. If your ticket has extra inclusions, you may also need to book dates and times for these inclusions after your purchase is complete via our Booking Portal. For more information, please see the instructions on your booking confirmation email.
Tell me about the Big Bus tour of Chicago
Big Bus Chicago offers sightseeing tours of the Chicago on open-top, double-decker buses. An entertaining commentary on the city's history and culture is provided in English by a virtual guides, who'll share fascinating facts and stories about Chicago's history and culture as you pass all its must-see landmarks and attractions. You can hop on and hop off the bus at any of our bus stops to discover and explore the city, and you're free to rejoin the tour as many times as you like within your ticket's validity period.
What can I see and visit?
Our bus stops are located at popular landmarks and attractions, making it easy for you to hop off and explore Chicago. Please check out our Discover Chicago page for information on things to do, landmarks and other attractions you can easily visit with Big Bus Tours.
On which days does the tour operate?
Big Bus Tours Chicago operates most days of the year, apart from Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Occasionally severe weather and special event days could affect our service. Please refer to our service information page for up-to-date information.
How long does the tour take?
A full circuit of The Big Loop (Red Route) day tour takes approximately 2 hours. Please allow for more time if you plan to hop on and off at any of our stops.
Is there a discount available for groups?
Yes. Please contact us .
Is it possible to hire one of the open-top buses for a private event?
Yes. Please contact us.
What time are the first and last buses?
Please visit our Service Information page for up-to-date information on bus times and scheduling.
Are child tickets available?
Yes, child tickets are available for passengers aged between 3–12 years. Children 2 and under may travel free of charge. All children must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 16 .
How do I redeem my ticket?
Following your online purchase you will receive a confirmation email. This will contain a link that will allow you to print your ticket voucher. Please print your ticket voucher and present it to a member of Big Bus staff at any one of our hop-on, hop-off stops before you start your tour. They will produce a ticket receipt that you will need to carry with you and present to the driver whenever you wish to rejoin the tour.
Are accommodations available for persons with disabilities?
Yes, we can operate wheelchair accessible vehicles with lifts that can accommodate a weight up to 650 pounds. Please be advised that our entire fleet in Chicago is not wheelchair accessible. If you or your travelling partner(s) requires an ADA accessible vehicle, please contact us 48 hours prior to your planned tour commencement. We can then arrange for a suitable vehicle to be available at the time and location required. If you require a different accommodation, please also contact us 48 hours prior to your planned tour commencement so we can make arrangements for an accommodation. Please note that messages left on the office general voicemail do not constitute confirmed arrangements. Please also note that passengers with mobility impairments may not be able to access the upper deck on our buses. We cannot guarantee the accessibility of the various attractions along the tour.
Can I change the date (and time) of my bus tour?
Yes. If you have a ticket that's 'fully flexible' you can change the date (and time) of your bus tour booking without charge. To make the change, please contact us.
If you don't have a 'fully flexible' ticket, we can still change the date of your bus tour, but please be aware that charges may apply.
If you don't have a 'fully flexible' ticket, we can still change the date of your bus tour, but please be aware that charges may apply.