Chicago Ghosts & Haunted History Walking Tour — Haunted Downtown Walking Experience
Walk through downtown Chicago as dusk falls and the city’s hidden histories come alive. This two-hour guided stroll visits sites from the Iroquois Theatre Fire to H.H. Holmes’ haunts, blending archival detail with atmospheric storytelling.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early
Be at the Congress Plaza Hotel 10–15 minutes before start to sign in and secure a good position near the guide.
Dress for wind and light
Layers and a windproof jacket make evening lake breezes and cooler nights comfortable.
Bring a charged phone
Mobile tickets are used and low-light photos require extra battery—carry a power bank.
Watch traffic and curb edges
Stops are on busy downtown sidewalks—stay with the group and cross only at controlled intersections.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small plaques and markers near the Iroquois Theatre site that explain fire-safety reforms
- •A quieter viewpoint on the Clark Street Bridge ideal for looking upriver at city lights
Wildlife
- •Peregrine falcons nesting on downtown towers
- •Urban raccoons that appear near riverfront alleys after dark
Conservation Note
Tours encourage respect for historic façades and alleys; avoid disturbing plaques or private property and support local preservation efforts.
The route highlights events that reshaped Chicago law and safety—most notably the 1903 Iroquois Theatre Fire and the Eastland disaster of 1915.
Photographer's Notes
- • Facade of the Congress Plaza Hotel
- • Clark Street Bridge looking upriver
- • The narrow alleyways near the Iroquois Theatre site
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
City sidewalks and occasional cobblestones require supportive, broken-in shoes.
Light rain jacketEssential
Compact protection for spring showers and variable evening weather.
Warm layer or fleece
Evenings by Lake Michigan can get chilly—an extra layer helps you stay focused on the stories.
Portable charger
Keeps your phone ready for tickets, maps, and low-light photos.
Common Questions
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts in front of the Congress Plaza Hotel (520 S. Michigan Ave) and ends at the Clark Street Bridge.
Is this tour suitable for children or strollers?
Yes—infants and small children in strollers are welcome and sidewalks are generally stroller accessible.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancel at least 24 hours before departure for a full refund.
Will the tour run in bad weather?
The tour operates rain or shine; bring a compact rain jacket for wet conditions.
Are the stories historical fact or folklore?
Guides differentiate documented events from legend, drawing on archives and contemporary sources to provide context.
How physically demanding is the walk?
It’s an easy, mostly flat 1.5–2 mile route with frequent stops—suitable for most fitness levels.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Chicago, Illinois
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal walking fitness; suitable for most adults and families with strollers
Ready to Explore Chicago?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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