Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Minibus Tour

5.0 (6 reviews) 2 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

6 reviews

5.0

Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Minibus Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Minibus Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Uncover the notorious history of Chicago's gangster era on this immersive bus tour that takes you through the city's most infamous landmarks. Visit the Palmer House, where Al Capone once mingled, and pass the Congress Hotel, rumored to be haunted by ghostly figures. Drive through Grant Park to learn about H.H. Holmes and the chilling Iroquois Theatre Fire. At each stop, delve into gripping tales of rivalries, secret doors, and tragic events that shaped Chicago's past. This tour is perfect for history buffs and those intrigued by the darker side of the city.

Explore key sites linked to Al Capone and Chicago's gangland history
Discover chilling tales of hauntings, Death Alley, and the tragic Iroquois Theatre Fire
Enjoy stops at iconic locations like the Holy Name Cathedral and Grant Park
Engage in a unique paranormal photo opportunity by the Chicago River

Bus Tours Private and Luxury Historical Tours Ghost Tours Crime Tours Small Group Best Conversion Low Supplier Cancellation Rate

At a glance

Duration: 2 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 14 people
People per booking: 1–14
Guide: English
Operated by: Empire Tours - Chicago

Ages: Children (4–12 years) · Adults (13–64 years) · Seniors (65–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Expert tour guide
Included: Minbus tour

Not included

Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Palmer House Hilton Historic Lobby

5 min

Start the tour outside Chicago’s legendary Palmer House, where Gilded Age luxury met the Underworld. You'll learn about how notorious mob boss Al Capone frequented the glamorous Empire Ballroom, using it as his personal speakeasy playground.
Stop 2

10 min

Stop outside one of America's most haunted hotels, where Al Capone managed his criminal empire from an 8th-floor suite. Hear legendary ghost stories and the mysterious shadows said to haunt the hallways.
Grant Park

Passing by

As we cruise through scenic Grant Park, look beyond the lake views to uncover Chicago’s darkest era. Learn how the 1893 World’s Fair brought millions to the city, and directly into the trap of H.H. Holmes, America’s first document serial killer.
Chase Tower

5 min

Right in the heart of the Loop, we pause at the site of one of the Mob’s boldest daylight hits. Hear the jaw-dropping story of the Tony Lombardo assassination right on the busy city streets.
Stop 5

10 min

Pause outside the deadliest single-building fire in U.S. history: the 1903 Iroquois Theatre tragedy. Learn about the notorious rear alleyway known ever since as "Death Alley."
Stop 6

Passing by

Cross the LaSalle Street Bridge over the Chicago River and revisit the tragic morning of July 24, 1915. Learn about Chicago's worst maritime disaster and the spirits that are still known to haunt the waters.
Stop 7

15 min

Step straight into true mob history! Harry Caray’s building was once owned by Frank Nitti, Al Capone’s notorious enforcer known as "The Enforcer." Head inside and view the hidden underground tunnel and secret vault uncovered beneath the building.
Holy Name Cathedral

5 min

Step off the bus in River North to examine real history carved into stone. Inspect the actual bullet scars left on the cornerstone of Holy Name Cathedral from a gangland hit.
Chicago Riverwalk

10 min

Step out along the Chicago River for photos and active ghost hunting! Capture views while learning how the river played a deadly role in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Your tour guide will be waiting for you outside the Palmer House Hotel, 124 S Wabash Ave, ready to check you in! Please arrive 1 5 minutes before the tour departure, the bus will leave promptly.

End point

Your tour guide will be waiting for you outside the Palmer House Hotel, 124 S Wabash Ave, ready to check you in! Please arrive 1 5 minutes before the tour departure, the bus will leave promptly.

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%

Good to know

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Infants (0-3 years old) travel for free and do not require a ticket. They must travel on a parent/guardian's lap, and will not be allocated an individual seat.