Free cancellation

Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tour

4.8 (195 reviews) · By Empire Tours - Chicago

Step into the shadowy past of Chicago on the original, top-rated Gangsters and Ghosts walking tour. Your historian guide will take you through the South Loop district, revealing stories of notorious gangsters, secret tunnels, and underground speakeasies from the 1920s and 30s.

Walk along the Chicago Riverwalk and explore haunted spots like the Palmer House and the Chicago Theatre. Discover the legends of ghostly apparitions said to linger in the city’s most haunted locations, including the famous Death Alley and the Congress Hotel, once a favorite haunt of Al Capone.

In just two hours, you'll uncover Chicago's dark history, legendary figures, and ghostly tales that still echo through the city streets today. Whether you're a history buff or a thrill-seeker, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into Chicago’s mysterious and criminal past.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

What languages are available for this tour?

The tour is conducted in English.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, children aged 0-6 can participate for free, with youth aged 7-12 and adults up to 364 years old also welcome.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and infants or small children can ride in a pram or stroller.

What is included in the tour?

The tour includes visits inside the Palmer House, a guided walk, and a historian guide.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?

Yes, you can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations less than 24 hours before are non-refundable.

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reserve now

Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.

Duration 2 hours

Check availability to see start times.

Live tour guide

English

Key facts

Duration 2 hours
Languages English
Group size Up to 15
Ages accepted Infants 0–6; Youth 7–12; Adults 13–364
Accessibility Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

What's included

Included

  • Visits inside the Palmer House
  • Guided walking tour
  • Historian guide

Not included

  • Gratuities

Itinerary

  1. Stop 1

    As we cruise along the historic Chicago Riverwalk, look down at the dark waters that hold some of the city's deepest secrets. During the roaring 1920s, this waterfront was the lifeblood of Al Capone’s bootlegging empire.

    20 minutes
  2. Stop 2

    Snap a photo under one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States—the glowing, six-story-high "CHICAGO" marquee.

    20 minutes
  3. Stop 3

    Step inside the breathtaking, gold-leafed lobby of the Palmer House, a masterpiece of Gilded Age opulence. While it looks like a royal palace today, this historic hotel holds a dark and legendary past.

    20 minutes
  4. Stop 4

    Stand beneath the gleaming, liquid-mercury surface of Cloud Gate—Chicago’s iconic sculpture.

    20 minutes
  5. Stop 5

    Guarded by its two famous bronze lions, The Art Institute of Chicago is renowned for its masterpieces—and some spectral secrets.

    20 minutes
  6. Stop 6

    Prepare for a visit to the Congress Plaza Hotel, known as one of Illinois’ most haunted buildings. During Prohibition, Al Capone made this hotel his headquarters.

    20 minutes

Meeting point & pickup

Meet at the starting point

Please meet your guide outside "Hoyt's Tavern" 15 minutes before the start time.

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Cancellation & confirmation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

  • 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day before
  • 0% refund if cancelled less than 24 hours before
  • May be cancelled due to bad weather
  • May be cancelled if there are not enough travelers

Instant confirmation

Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.

From $38.00 per person

Infant Age 0–6
0
Youth Age 7–12
0
Adult Age 13–64
1
Senior Age 65–100
0
  • Free cancellation
  • Secure checkout with our booking partner

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