Chicago's Ultimate City Bike Tour of Top Downtown Attractions





Description
Get acquainted with Chicago’s most iconic landmarks on this riotous guided Chicago bicycle tour! Join the expert guides of Bobby’s Bike Hike, America’s longest-running city bicycle tour company, on this exciting and informative adventure. Over the course of a 3-hour bike ride (traversed at a nice leisurely pace), you’ll get up close and personal with Chicago’s legendary Museum Campus, Grant Park, Chicago Riverwalk, Lakefront and Millennium Park. You’ll become intimately familiar with Soldier Field, The Adler Planetarium, Buckingham Fountain, The Pritzker Pavilion, and Cloud Gate (the formal name of Chicago’s dearly-beloved “Bean”). This tour is perfect for first time visitors looking to see all of the classic hotspots, and for returning guests looking to understand more about the landmarks they know and love. Hop on two wheels, and come make memories that are sure to last a lifetime! All equipment included on this Bicycle Tour of Chicago.
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Itinerary
Millennium Park is where modern Chicago shows off. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll glide into this world-famous public space where bold architecture, public art, and skyline views collide. Insiders know to look beyond Cloud Gate—notice how the park was built over active rail lines, transforming industrial space into one of the city’s greatest civic achievements. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how Millennium Park became a global symbol of Chicago’s creativity and reinvention. From the Jay Pritzker Pavilion’s sweeping steel design to interactive art installations, it’s a masterclass in urban innovation. Among the top Things to do in Chicago, seeing Millennium Park by bike lets you experience its scale, energy, and cultural impact in a way that feels dynamic and alive.
Buckingham Fountain is pure Chicago grandeur. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll roll into Grant Park and see one of the largest fountains in the world set against a skyline that feels cinematic. Insiders know to time it near the top of the hour when the central jet soars skyward—creating the kind of photo moment that defines summer in the city. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how this Beaux-Arts masterpiece symbolizes Lake Michigan and the city’s connection to the water. It’s not just decorative—it’s civic pride in motion. As one of the most iconic Things to do in Chicago, experiencing Buckingham Fountain by bike lets you take in its scale, symmetry, and skyline backdrop in a way that feels immersive and unforgettable.
The Lakefront Bike Trail isn’t just a path — it’s the front row seat to Chicago’s greatest show. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll cruise along this iconic 18-mile stretch with Lake Michigan on one side and a world-class skyline on the other. Locals know this is where the city breathes: early-morning runners, beach volleyball, sailboats dotting the horizon, and that unmistakable lake breeze that makes summer in Chicago legendary. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you won’t just ride it — you’ll understand it. Our guides share how the lakefront transformed from industrial shoreline into one of the most celebrated urban waterfronts in the world. It’s hands down one of the top Things to do in Chicago, and there’s no better way to experience it than on two wheels, moving at the perfect pace to take it all in.
Museum Campus is where Chicago’s skyline, lakefront, and world-class institutions come together in one unforgettable setting. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll ride into this stunning peninsula surrounded by water and framed by the city’s most dramatic skyline views. Insiders know to pause and look back toward downtown—this is one of the most breathtaking vantage points in the entire city. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how this area evolved from rail yards and industrial land into a cultural powerhouse anchored by the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium. It represents Chicago’s ambition, intellect, and reinvention. Among the top Things to do in Chicago, exploring Museum Campus by bike offers open space, fresh lake air, and a panoramic perspective that most visitors never fully experience.
Navy Pier is where Chicago’s waterfront energy comes alive. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll ride along the lake and see the Centennial Wheel rise above the skyline, blending history, entertainment, and unbeatable views. Insiders know the pier began as a shipping and training facility in 1916 before evolving into one of the city’s most visited destinations. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how Navy Pier reflects Chicago’s ability to reinvent itself—transforming industrial space into a vibrant gathering place for locals and visitors alike. From lake breezes to skyline backdrops, it captures the spirit of the city in one sweeping view. Among the classic Things to do in Chicago, experiencing Navy Pier by bike lets you feel the scale, movement, and excitement firsthand.
Northerly Island is one of Chicago’s best-kept secrets. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll ride out onto this peaceful peninsula where prairie landscape, skyline views, and Lake Michigan collide. Locals know this is where you escape the city without ever leaving it—wide open paths, migratory birds, and one of the most dramatic vantage points of downtown. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how this former airfield was transformed into a nature preserve, symbolizing Chicago’s evolution from industry to sustainability. It’s a quiet contrast to the city’s towering architecture just minutes away. Among the most unique Things to do in Chicago, exploring Northerly Island by bike offers space, perspective, and a refreshing insider experience few visitors ever discover.
Soldier Field is where Chicago’s grit and pride come together. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll roll past this historic stadium on Museum Campus, where generations have gathered for Bears games, championship moments, and unforgettable concerts. Insiders know to notice the striking contrast between the original 1924 colonnades and the modern redesign—a bold architectural conversation that mirrors Chicago itself. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how Soldier Field became a symbol of resilience and civic identity. Set against the lake and skyline, it’s more than a stadium—it’s a cultural landmark. As one of the classic Things to do in Chicago, seeing it by bike gives you space to appreciate its scale, history, and dramatic setting in a way most visitors never do.
The Chicago Riverwalk is where the city’s architectural story unfolds at eye level. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll ride above the river while looking down at historic bridges, boat tours, and some of the most celebrated skyscrapers in the world. Insiders know this stretch was once purely industrial—today it’s a vibrant waterfront that showcases Chicago’s remarkable reinvention. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how the reversal of the river changed the course of the city and helped shape modern engineering history. It’s more than scenery—it’s innovation in motion. Among the must-see Things to do in Chicago, experiencing the Riverwalk by bike gives you perspective, movement, and context that transforms a simple view into a powerful story of ambition and design.
The Chicago Theatre is where the city’s glamour still shines bright. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll ride into the heart of The Loop and see its iconic marquee glowing above State Street—one of the most photographed signs in America. Insiders know this 1921 landmark helped define Chicago as an entertainment capital long before Broadway tours arrived. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how the theatre survived changing eras, near demolition, and revival to become a symbol of downtown’s resilience. It’s more than a venue—it’s a piece of living history wrapped in neon. Among the classic Things to do in Chicago, seeing the Chicago Theatre by bike lets you feel the energy of the street, the architecture, and the story all at once.
Shedd Aquarium is where Chicago’s love of discovery meets the lakefront. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll glide into Museum Campus and see this stunning Beaux-Arts landmark set against one of the most breathtaking skyline backdrops in the city. Locals know that from the steps near Shedd, you get a panoramic view that perfectly captures Chicago’s bold architecture rising from the water. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how Shedd became one of the world’s premier aquariums and a symbol of Chicago’s commitment to science and education. It’s not just a photo stop — it’s a cultural cornerstone. As one of the essential Things to do in Chicago, seeing Shedd by bike connects you to the city’s history, innovation, and unbeatable lakefront energy in one unforgettable ride.
Grant Park is Chicago’s front yard—and locals treat it that way. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll ride through this expansive green space known as “the city’s backyard,” framed by skyline views and lakefront breezes. Insiders know this is where Chicago gathers for festivals, concerts, and historic moments—from Lollapalooza to championship celebrations. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how Daniel Burnham fought to keep this land “forever open, clear, and free,” preserving it for public use. That vision still shapes the city today. Among the essential Things to do in Chicago, exploring Grant Park by bike gives you the perfect balance of culture, history, and open space—letting you experience downtown the way Chicagoans actually do.
The Field Museum isn’t just a stop — it’s a statement about Chicago’s global ambition. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll roll up to this neoclassical giant on Museum Campus, where world exploration, science, and culture converge against a breathtaking skyline backdrop. Locals know this area offers one of the most underrated views of downtown — especially when you glance back toward the city from the lake. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear the insider story of how this museum became a symbol of Chicago’s rise after the 1893 World’s Fair. It’s more than architecture; it’s legacy. Among the top Things to do in Chicago, seeing Museum Campus by bike gives you space, perspective, and context — far beyond what you’d get on foot or from a bus window.
12th Street Beach is one of those hidden-in-plain-sight gems locals quietly love. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll cruise past this relaxed stretch of sand tucked beside Museum Campus, where calm waters, sailboats, and skyline views create a peaceful contrast to downtown’s buzz. Insiders know it’s one of the best spots to see the city framed against Lake Michigan without the crowds of larger beaches. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll learn how the lakefront was intentionally preserved for public use—giving everyone access to this incredible shoreline. It’s a reminder that Chicago’s greatest asset isn’t just its architecture, but its waterfront. Among the most refreshing Things to do in Chicago, experiencing 12th Street Beach by bike offers perspective, space, and a true local vibe.
Cloud Gate—better known as “The Bean”—is more than a selfie spot. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll roll into Millennium Park and see this mirrored sculpture reflect the skyline in a way that feels almost surreal. Insiders know to walk beneath it and look up—the warped reflections of the city create a perspective most visitors miss. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how artist Anish Kapoor designed Cloud Gate to capture Chicago’s architectural boldness and ever-changing sky. It’s playful, artistic, and deeply symbolic of the city’s modern identity. As one of the must-see Things to do in Chicago, experiencing it by bike means you arrive energized, see it from multiple angles, and understand why locals still love it years after its debut.
Jay Pritzker Pavilion is Chicago’s architectural showpiece in Millennium Park. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll ride past Frank Gehry’s sweeping stainless-steel design that looks like music frozen in motion. Insiders know to look up at the crisscrossing trellis overhead—it’s engineered to deliver concert-quality sound across the entire Great Lawn. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how this pavilion transformed downtown into a world-class outdoor performance space, hosting everything from classical symphonies to summer festivals. It’s bold, modern, and unmistakably Chicago. Among the essential Things to do in Chicago, experiencing Pritzker Pavilion by bike lets you appreciate its scale, artistry, and cultural impact in a dynamic, up-close way.
Crown Fountain is one of Chicago’s most playful and meaningful works of public art. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll roll into Millennium Park and see the twin glass towers project the faces of everyday Chicagoans—then suddenly “spit” water into the reflecting pool below. Insiders know this isn’t just interactive fun; it’s a tribute to the diversity and spirit of the city itself. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how artist Jaume Plensa designed the fountain to celebrate community and invite people to engage with art, not just observe it. Kids splash, adults laugh, and the skyline rises behind it all. Among the most unique Things to do in Chicago, seeing Crown Fountain by bike lets you experience the city’s creativity, humor, and inclusivity in motion.
Adler Planetarium is where Chicago reaches for the stars—literally. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll ride to the edge of Museum Campus, where Adler sits like a crown at the tip of the peninsula. Insiders know this is the single best skyline photo angle in the city—look back toward downtown and you’ll see the entire skyline rise dramatically over Lake Michigan. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how Adler became America’s first planetarium and a symbol of Chicago’s forward-thinking spirit. It’s not just about astronomy—it’s about ambition and big ideas. Among the top Things to do in Chicago, experiencing Adler by bike gives you open space, fresh air, and a cinematic perspective you simply can’t get from inside a car or bus.
Daley Plaza is where Chicago’s power and public life intersect. On our Chicago Bike Tour, you’ll ride into this civic hub beneath towering modernist architecture and the famous Picasso sculpture that still sparks debate decades later. Insiders know the plaza reflects Chicago’s bold, no-nonsense personality—art, government, and daily city life all sharing the same space. On our Bicycle Tour in Chicago, you’ll hear how this plaza became a stage for protests, celebrations, farmers markets, and winter holiday traditions. It’s where the city gathers when something important happens. Among the essential Things to do in Chicago, seeing Daley Plaza by bike gives you context—not just a photo, but a deeper understanding of Chicago’s political heartbeat and cultural confidence.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This Chicago Bike Tour is appropriate for most ages and fitness levels. Professional guides blend quality information, group interaction, and most of all, fun, to create an unforgettable Chicago experience. Bikes are provided
- TripAdvisor rated Bobby’s Bike Hike its highest-level Traveler’s Choice Award each year since 2002.
- Operates rain or shine, please dress appropriately. If extreme weather forces cancellation there will be options to change tours or refund.
- Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough guests to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
- Please note: children must be strong, capable riders and be able to bike for 9 miles
- All equipment included: Bicycles, Helmets, and Child Equipment
Reviews(254)
Awesome ride. They have e-bikes for those that can’t do the 7-9 miles on their own. Just be warned, you will be around cars and people in city streets, but Chicago is pedestrian-friendly.
Such a great 3-hour overview of CHI. Liam was fun, knowledgeable and helpful for novice cyclists. Highly recommend!
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed your 3-hour overview of Chicago and that Liam made the experience fun, informative, and comfortable for novice riders. It means a lot to know you'd highly recommend our Chicago Bike Tour. We love introducing guests to the best Things to Do in Chicago, and we're so glad your Bike Tour in Chicago gave you a memorable way to experience the city's iconic sights by Bicycle. Bobby's Bike Hike is America's longest running city bike tour operator, and reviews like yours inspire us to keep creating unforgettable adventures. We hope to welcome you back for another ride the next time you're in Chicago!
Dan was an excellent tour guide and very knowledgeable. He made learning about the history of Chicago fun and enjoyable (even for our 9 year old). The bike tour is a great way to experience the city.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that Dan made Chicago's history fun, engaging, and memorable for your whole family, especially your 9-year-old. Creating an experience that both kids and adults enjoy is exactly what we strive for. We're delighted that you found our Chicago Bike Tour to be such a great way to experience the city. Exploring Chicago by Bicycle offers a unique perspective, and we're honored you chose our Bike Tour in Chicago as part of your visit. We truly appreciate you recommending one of the best Things to Do in Chicago. We'd also love to welcome you back on another adventure, whether it's our Bikes, Bites & Views Bicycle Tour or one of our award-winning Walking and Food Tours. Thanks again for riding with us, and we hope to see your family again soon!
My husband and I had an AWESOME experience with our guide Molly! She was so informative, courteous and delightful to be around. I loved the pace, information, and just all around fun of this tour. Highly recommend!!!
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that you and your husband had such an awesome experience with Molly. She truly has a gift for making every Chicago Bike Tour informative, engaging, and fun, and we're delighted that her courteous personality and the pace of the tour made it such a memorable experience. It's fantastic to know you enjoyed learning about the city's incredible history and landmarks while exploring by Bicycle. Thank you for recommending us to others looking for Things to Do in Chicago or searching for the perfect Bike Tour in Chicago. We'd also love to welcome you back for another adventure in the future, whether it's on our Bikes, Bites & Views Bicycle Tour or one of our award-winning Walking and Food Tours. We look forward to riding with you again!
Really fun time. Great photo ops. Get to ride around the town. We brought a 1 year old baby and he did great with the length
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience! We're so happy to hear you had a really fun time exploring the city and enjoyed all the great photo opportunities along the way. A Chicago Bike Tour is one of the best Things to Do in Chicago, and we're glad you were able to experience so much of the city from the seat of a Bicycle. We're especially delighted to hear that your one-year-old did so well on the tour. It's wonderful that your family was able to enjoy this Bike Tour in Chicago together and create lasting memories. Thank you again for your recommendation, and we're honored to share that Bobby's Bike Hike is America's longest running city bike tour operator. We hope to welcome your family back for another adventure with us in the future!
Molly was an outstanding guide as she led us through both the history snd the streets of Chicago. Her knowledge was immense and the stories she shared made the city come to life. She was very aware of our safety and was continuously checking to make sure all was well. I highly recommend Bobby’s Bikes and especially Molly for Chicago bike tours.
Thank you so much for the wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that Molly helped bring Chicago’s history, architecture, and neighborhoods to life through her storytelling and expertise. Creating a fun, engaging, and safe experience is at the heart of every Chicago Bike Tour, and it’s great to know Molly’s attentiveness and knowledge made such a positive impression. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with Molly, who takes great pride in helping guests discover some of the best Things to Do in Chicago while exploring the city by Bicycle. Your recommendation means a lot to our team, and we’re delighted that your Bike Tour in Chicago was both memorable and enjoyable. As America’s longest running city bike tour operator, Bobby’s Bike Hike is honored to help visitors and locals experience Chicago in a unique and unforgettable way. We hope to welcome you back again for another Chicago Bike Tour in the future!
This tour was a great way to get to know the city with some historical perspective. Our guide, Molly, was the best! She is native to Chicago and was a phenomenal guide. I highly recommend. My husband and I are already planning our next bike adventure.
Thank you for the fantastic review! We’re delighted to hear that you and your husband enjoyed exploring the city while gaining a deeper historical perspective along the way. Molly’s passion for Chicago, combined with her local knowledge and engaging storytelling, helps make every Chicago Bike Tour a memorable experience, and we’re thrilled she made such a positive impact on your visit. There are so many incredible Things to Do in Chicago, and experiencing the city by Bicycle is one of the best ways to see its iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and vibrant neighborhoods. We truly appreciate your recommendation and are excited to hear you’re already planning your next bike adventure! Bobby’s Bike Hike is passionate about our four core tenets of travel, community, health and service, and we’re grateful you chose us for your Bike Tour in Chicago. We hope to see you again soon, whether on another Chicago Bike Tour or one of our other exciting adventures!
Cleaners are really great, especially Tsabika.
Hartelijk dank voor uw mooie woorden! Wat fijn om te horen dat u zo tevreden bent over onze schoonmaaksters, en in het bijzonder over Tsabika. We zullen uw compliment zeker aan haar doorgeven; zij zal het enorm waarderen. Ons team zet zich iedere dag in om alles schoon en verzorgd te houden, en het is geweldig wanneer dat wordt opgemerkt. Nogmaals bedankt voor uw vriendelijke review en we hopen u snel weer te mogen verwelkomen!
Gabe was great with leading our group of various ages on a very busy holiday weekend!
Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re so glad Gabe did a great job leading your group and helping everyone of various ages enjoy the adventure, especially during such a busy holiday weekend. Creating fun and memorable experiences for all riders is exactly what we aim for on our Chicago Bike Tour experiences. We’re thrilled you chose our Bike Tour in Chicago while exploring the best Things to Do in Chicago, and we hope the Bicycle ride through the city’s top attractions created lasting memories for your group. Bobby’s Bike Hike is passionate about our four core tenets of travel, community, health and service, and it’s wonderful to hear Gabe helped bring that mission to life. Thanks again for riding with us, and we’d love to see you back again for another Chicago Bike Tour soon! 🚲
The trip includes a lot of very interesting information on Chicago’s history; art; architecture and geography. The views of the city were breathtaking with many opportunities to take pictures. The tour makes multiple stops so the cycling isn’t too challenging. We were able to cover a lot of ground and see several spots that would have been much more difficult to see by car or simply walking. The bikes were very comfortable. Liam, our guide was excellent. He always made sure we were safe and was extremely knowledgeable about the areas we covered. Highly recommend this tour and Liam!
Thank you so much for this thoughtful review! We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed learning about Chicago’s history, art, architecture, and geography while taking in those breathtaking city views. One of our favorite parts of sharing this Chicago Bike Tour is showing guests how much ground can be covered by Bicycle while still keeping the ride comfortable, fun, and accessible with plenty of stops along the way. We’re especially happy to hear Liam made such a great impression. Safety, knowledge, and creating memorable experiences are what make a great Bike Tour in Chicago, and we’ll be sure to pass your kind words along to him. Chicago has so many incredible attractions, and we love helping guests discover unique Things to Do in Chicago beyond what you can experience by car or walking alone. Thank you as well for mentioning the comfortable bikes and photo opportunities — those memorable views are a huge part of what makes our Chicago Bike Tour special. Bobby’s Bike Hike is passionate about our four core tenets of travel, community, health and service, and reviews like yours mean so much to our team. We hope to see you again on another Bicycle adventure in the future! 🚲😊



