2-Hour Chicago's Chinatown History and Culture Tour

2-Hour Chicago's Chinatown History and Culture Tour

Price varies by date Check availability for current pricing

About This Tour in Chicago

Discover the heart of Chicago’s Chinatown with your authentic history and culture tours, exclusively offered by the official Chinatown Visitor Center. Led by experienced local guides, your tours dives deep into the neighborhood’s rich heritage, hidden landmarks, and cultural traditions. Unlike generic tours, we bring you behind the scenes with insider stories, community connections, and exclusive access to local favorites. Experience Chinatown through the eyes of those who know it best. A minimum of 2 participants is required for this experience. If the minimum is not met, the tour may be canceled, and you will receive a full refund.

Why Visit Chicago?

Chicago is a world-class city known for its stunning architecture, deep-dish pizza, and vibrant arts scene. Explore Millennium Park, visit world-renowned museums, and experience the famous Magnificent Mile. Chicago offers incredible lakefront views and a rich cultural heritage.

Getting to Chicago

The easiest way to reach Chicago is by flying into O'Hare International Airport (ORD) or Midway International Airport (MDW). From the airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare service (Uber, Lyft), or public transportation to reach the city center. Many hotels also offer shuttle services, and rental cars are widely available for exploring the area.

What's Included

  • Souvenir gift from Chicago Chinatown Visitor Center
  • Discount for our future tours and workshops
  • English Speaking tour guide

What's Not Included

  • $6-10 per person (or more) suggested guide gratuity. (via Cash, Venmo and PayPal)

Cancellation Policy

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

Additional Information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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Meeting and Pickup

Meeting Point

Mural and 12 Zodiac animals statues; Walking through the Plaza, passing Joy Yee, General Merchandise shops, many restaurants, ice cream parlors, and historic St

meet at Chicago Chinatown Visitor Center, right across the street of Chicago Chiantown Public Library entrance. You'll see the Chinatown Visitor Center signs and offices once you are getting close.

End Point

follow your tour guide back to Chinatown square plaza for foods and drinks or enjoy your relaxed time at the Ping Tom Memorial Park where you can also take the Chicago Water Taxi to downtown Michigan Ave.

Pickup Information

Pickup Option: All travelers must meet at start point

Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

Mural and 12 Zodiac animals statues; Walking through... 20 minutes

Mural and 12 Zodiac animals statues; Walking through the Plaza, passing Joy Yee, General Merchandise shops, many restaurants, ice cream parlors, and historic St. Anne’s Bakery

crosse Archer, then Cermak Rd – “named for... 30 minutes

crosse Archer, then Cermak Rd – “named for a former Chicago Mayor killed in an assassination attempt on a U.S. President!” – and walk east hearing about how Old Chinatown developed. At corner of Wentworth, take pictures beneath Chinatown’s Welcome Gate, and an alley that has “started” in the Chicago PD TV Show. Next stop is the historic Pui-Tak Center Continue walking south, take photos in front of the historic Won Kow building “used in many TV shows and movies, and a favorite hangout of legendary Chicago gangster Al Capone, etc.” Cool recessed balcony atop Emperor’s Choice restaurant, and the beautiful TerraCotta decorative tiles on that building, as on the Pui-Tak Center and many others throughout Chinatown . Stop at the oldest Chinese Bakery Storein Chinatown-Chiu Quon.

Next stop is a few minutes talking about...

Next stop is a few minutes talking about historic Pui-Tak Center and the importance of Merchant Associations in any developing Chinese communities

discover the unique local Chinese American history through... 30 minutes

discover the unique local Chinese American history through showcasing and celebrating current Chinese American art, culture, and innovation.

This particular wall is made of glazed tile... 5 minutes

This particular wall is made of glazed tile from China and is modeled after the wall in Beihai Park in Beijing. The Chinatown mural replicates the large dragons and over 500 smaller dragons painted in red, gold and blue signifying the Chinese focus on good fortune. The Nine Dragon Wall is one of the only three such replicas outside of China.

beautiful Ping Tom Park has walking trails along... 30 minutes

beautiful Ping Tom Park has walking trails along the South Branch of the Chicago River with wonderful views of Chicago's skyline and historic bridges. Some of the amenities include: Pagoda Pavillion, Water Taxi to Ogilvie Metra Station and Michigan Avenue operated by Wendalla , Children's playground and beautiful Chinese Murals under 18th Street Bridge

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cancellation policy?

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

How do I book this tour?

Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?

Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.

Book Your Experience

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