Chicago River: Self-Guided Audio Tours

Immerse yourself in the tales of mischief and mayhem that once ruled the streets of 19th-century Chicago with this in-app audio tour. Designed for listeners with an interest in the shadier side of history, this journey transports you to an era before the fame of Al Capone—a time of the city's earliest rogue players. Break away from the typical historical narrative and delve into stories of the first crime lords and law-benders. The route begins by the historic DuSable Bridge and concludes at the renowned London House. Along the way, experience the scandalous Sands district, the hustle of North Rush Street, the remnants of the Kilgubbin Shanty Town, and more. With each stop, the audio guide offers vivid storytelling, injecting life into the locales where Chicago's original outlaws once roamed. Highlights include standing where Chicago's first police officer met his tragic fate, gazing upon the sites of the legendary gambling dens, and observing the places that incited the city's first major riots. This tour not only offers a glimpse into the underbelly of Chicago's past but also provides a unique perspective on how it has shaped the city today.

Delve into the essence of Chicago on a riveting self-guided audio tour that will take you through 200 years of history along the iconic Chicago River. This tour is tailored for anyone with a curiosity about the city's vibrant past, architecture, and transformative milestones. It's an exploration of the river that has been the lifeblood of the city, attracting both settlers and tourists alike. Embarking from the historic McCormick Bridgehouse, you'll journey along a well-marked path, venturing through time from the early days of Chicago's first settler, to the hustle and bustle of its great 1800s harbor, and into the present day where the river is a centerpiece of urban delight. The endpoint of this revealing tour is at the prestigious Michigan Avenue, also known as the Magnificent Mile, renowned for its rich history and contemporary charm. As one traverses the route, visual treats along the way include impressive drawbridges, monumental buildings, and commemorative sites—each with its own story. You'll experience the unique wonder of watching the river glisten with emerald green on St. Patrick's Day and understand why Chicago holds such an esteemed place in America's narrative. By the tour's conclusion, not only will your footsteps have traced the ebbs and flows of time, but your mind will be awash with the sights and sounds of a city that has continued to reinvent itself while honoring its profound heritage.

Interested in Chicago’s architectural grandeur, public artworks, and vibrant theater scene? This immersive audio tour is crafted for curious explorers who want to experience the essence of the city's Loop and River North areas through their own eyes and ears. Donning headphones, journey goers will be their own guide on a path lined with stories and history, guaranteeing an enriching solo adventure through the Windy City’s downtown buzz. The tour launches at the prestigious Art Institute of Chicago and unfolds through cultural landmarks such as Millennium Park's reflective Cloud Gate, up to the glamorous Theater District. The carefully mapped route ensures that you won't miss a concrete giant or a notable artwork, starting from 111 South Michigan Avenue and concluding at the historical marker indicating the start of the iconic Route 66. Along the paths trodden by locals and legends, witness a city reborn and shimmering with life. Along the way, expect to be captivated by the interactive Crown Fountain, the monumental Chicago Theatre sign, and the river’s glittering edge. This self-navigated journey encourages pausing for reflection, snapping photos at perfect camera angles, and embracing the tales that shaped Chicago into the city of today.