Chicago Gangsters and Prohibition Private History Tour

2.0 (4 reviews) 2 hours Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

4 reviews

2.0

Chicago Gangsters and Prohibition Private History Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Chicago Gangsters and Prohibition Private History Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Discover Chicago’s infamous gangster past on a private, fully personalized tour through the city’s historic Prohibition-era streets. Travel in comfort with your English-speaking driver, who shares captivating stories about Al Capone, rival gangs, speakeasies, and legendary crime events of the 1920s and 1930s.

Begin at Biograph Theater, where John Dillinger was shot, then visit the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre site, a pivotal moment in Al Capone’s rise. Explore Holy Name Cathedral, the Cook County Criminal Court Building, and Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse, all linked to Chicago’s mob history.

Conclude in the Chicago Loop, uncovering hidden speakeasies and secret nightlife spots from the Prohibition era. With a flexible, door-to-door itinerary, this private tour offers an immersive, thrilling look into the city’s dramatic gangster history.

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At a glance

Duration: 2 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–7
Guide: English
Operated by: Welcome Pickups

Ages: Adults (0–120 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off
Included: Fuel and Tolls
Included: Water
Included: On-board WiFi: WiFi on board
Included: Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off
Included: Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide
Included: All taxes and handling charges

Not included

Not included: Meals and beverages
Not included: Tips and Gratuities

Itinerary

Biograph Theatre

15 min

The historic Biograph Theater is best known as the location where famous gangster John Dillinger was killed by FBI agents in 1934. The dramatic shootout occurred just outside the theater after he attended a movie screening. Today the building remains an important landmark connected to Chicago’s criminal past. It stands as a reminder of the city’s turbulent Prohibition-era history.
Clark Street

15 min

St. Valentine’s Day Massacre Site.

This site marks the location of the infamous St. Valentine’s Day Massacre of 1929, one of the most shocking events in American organized crime history. Seven members of a rival gang were murdered in a brutal execution widely linked to Al Capone’s criminal empire. The massacre shocked the nation and intensified efforts to crack down on organized crime. Today the site remains a powerful symbol of Chicago’s gangster era.
Holy Name Cathedral

15 min

Holy Name Cathedral.

Holy Name Cathedral is one of Chicago’s most important religious landmarks, but it also has a surprising connection to the city’s crime history. In 1926, gunmen attempted to assassinate Al Capone outside the cathedral in a dramatic drive-by shooting. Capone narrowly escaped the attack, adding another chapter to the city’s violent mob conflicts. The cathedral still stands today as both a place of worship and a historic site.
Stop 4

15 min

Cook County Criminal Court Building.

This courthouse played a central role during Chicago’s battles against organized crime. Many mobsters, gang leaders, and criminals faced trials here as authorities worked to dismantle powerful criminal organizations. The building became a symbol of the legal fight against the city’s infamous gangster networks. Its history reflects Chicago’s long struggle to restore law and order during the Prohibition era.
Stop 5

30 min

Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse (Former Mob Hangout).

Located in a historic building once associated with Chicago’s criminal underworld, this location has connections to the city’s mob history. During the Prohibition era, many restaurants and clubs secretly served alcohol and became gathering places for powerful figures. Today the building is home to one of Chicago’s well-known restaurants while still preserving its intriguing past.
Stop 6

30 min

Chicago Loop Prohibition-Era Locations.

The Chicago Loop was once filled with hidden speakeasies where illegal alcohol was served during Prohibition. Behind ordinary storefronts, secret bars operated throughout the city, often protected by powerful crime syndicates. These underground venues became central to Chicago’s nightlife during the 1920s. Walking through the area today reveals the streets where this secret world once thrived.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

Hotel B&B
The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection
Teddy Swims - This Guy Books Experience
Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile
Hyatt Place Chicago / Wicker Park
The Neighborhood Hotel Little Italy
AMLI West Loop
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Chicago Downtown/River North
Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago-Downtown
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown Riverwalk
Holiday Inn Express Chicago - Magnificent Mile By IHG

and 170 more pickup points

Your driver will meet you at the selected pickup location and time, and will wait for up to 30 minutes after the scheduled pickup. If no contact is made within this time, the booking will be considered a no-show, and the driver may leave.

Before your ride, you’ll receive your driver’s name, phone number, and vehicle details, so you can easily recognize them upon arrival. Your driver will be punctual, professional, and happy to assist with your luggage and any special requests before beginning your journey.

Please note that this sightseeing ride cannot start, end, or include stops at airports, ports, or train stations.

If you have any special requirements — such as traveling with a service animal or needing extra assistance — kindly mention them when booking to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Using your ticket

Please show this to your driver.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

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

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For 1-3 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group.
For 4-7 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.
Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own.
Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance, or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative or a refund if the tickets are included in the price.
Our tours are fully flexible — you decide which attractions to explore inside and which to admire from the outside. Entrance tickets are not included unless clearly specified as a “tickets included” option in the tour selection. Your driver will adjust the itinerary based on opening hours, availability, and your preferences to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.