Share this tour
Offered languages
- English
- English
This 45-minute self-guided walking tour explores the bizarre history beneath Wicker Park’s elegant surface. Led by a longtime resident, you will discover the neighborhood’s transition from a wealthy enclave to a gritty artist hub and its modern gentrification.
Key Highlights:
* Radical History: Learn about labor leader Lucy Parsons and the search for hidden bombs in the park.
* Beer Baron Row: Hear tragic tales of murder and madness tied to grand Victorian mansions.
* Quack Medicine: Discover how Theophilus Noel’s "Vita-Ore" empire funded iconic local architecture.
* Mob Intrigue: Visit the former Russian Baths where mobsters met in steam rooms to avoid FBI wires.
* Massacre Connections: See where the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre was planned and its getaway car destroyed.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The tour begins at the Wicker Park park. It's just steps from the Blue Line 'L' train, or the Damen Ave bus line. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
The tour ends near 1901 W North Ave and Elk Grove ave, Chicago, IL 60622.
Itinerary
-
(Pass by)
Stroll past this iconic Art Deco skyscraper, formerly known as the Northwest Tower. You can learn about its history as the neighborhood's first skyscraper or enjoy rooftop cocktails with panoramic city views. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Pass by this majestic bookstore housed in the historic Noel State Bank building. Visitors can browse a massive collection of books and gifts beneath the beautifully restored architectural details of a 1920s bank. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Walk along North Avenue to find this award-winning staple serving New Haven-style thin-crust pizza and house-brewed beers. Learn about their unique collaborations and enjoy a lively, "hopping" atmosphere popular with locals. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Stroll past this triangular landmark, a former artist colony established in 1979 to revitalize the area. You can explore contemporary galleries and perhaps hear stories of the resident ghosts. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Pass by this community hub located within the neighborhood's namesake park. You can learn about the park’s donation by the Wicker brothers or participate in seasonal sports, workshops, and local garden events. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Walk along Hoyne Avenue to admire the opulent 19th-century mansions built by wealthy German brewery owners. Learn about the area's brewing history and spot vintage features like "carriage stones" near the curbs. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Stroll past this historic venue, once a 19th-century brothel with a secret tunnel connection to a nearby bathhouse. Today, you can catch live music acts and see the original Tiffany chandelier above the dancefloor. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience
Popular Countries
Get our app
