Chicago: Guided Holiday Walking Tour and Food Sampling

Exploring Chicago during the holidays is a magical experience, and the Guided Holiday Walking Tour and Food Sampling offers a delightful way to take in the city’s festive charm. Visitors can glide across the ice-skating rink at Millennium Park, indulge in the original brownie at the historic Palmer House Hotel, and savor iconic Chicago cuisine, all while discovering the enchanting Christkindlemarket. With optional VIP beverage sampling, this tour promises a truly memorable holiday outing. The only question is: where will this enchanting journey lead?

Key Points

• Immersive Millennium Park experience featuring a towering Christmas tree, ice-skating rink, and iconic Cloud Gate sculpture.
• Warm, spiced apple cider served during the tour, providing a cozy respite.
• Indulgence in the historic, fudgy Palmer House Hotel’s original brownie.
• Sampling of Chicago’s renowned deep-dish pizza and hot dogs.
• Exploration of the festive Christkindlemarket with optional VIP beverage sampling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Millennium Park Christmas Extravaganza

As visitors approach Millennium Park, they’re greeted by the towering Christmas tree, its twinkling lights reflecting off the ice-skating rink below.

The park transforms into a winter wonderland, inviting guests to glide across the frozen surface while taking in the festive atmosphere.

Tour-goers can pause for a warm cup of apple cider, sipping it as they admire the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture and the Chicago skyline beyond.

Pausing for a warm cup of apple cider, visitors can admire the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture and the Chicago skyline.

This stop is a highlight of the holiday walking tour, providing a chance to take in the magic of the season in the heart of the city.

The Joy of Hot Apple Cider

During the Chicago holiday walking tour, travelers can look forward to enjoying a warm, comforting cup of hot apple cider. The sweet, spiced beverage is the perfect complement to the crisp winter air and festive sights.

Here’s what to expect:

• A steaming mug of apple cider, served piping hot to thaw cold hands and hearts.

• Aromatic notes of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg that evoke cozy, nostalgic feelings.

• A moment of respite and refreshment amidst the lively tour.

• A chance to savor the flavors of the season and recharge for the next leg of the journey.

Indulging in the Original Brownie

After warming up with the comforting hot apple cider, the Chicago holiday walking tour participants get to indulge in the original brownie at the historic Palmer House Hotel.

This decadent treat was first created at the hotel in 1893 for the Chicago World’s Fair. The rich, fudgy brownie is a signature dish and a highlight of the tour.

Participants can savor the delicious morsel, marveling at its soft, gooey center and satisfying chocolate flavor.

This classic Chicago dessert provides a sweet respite during the festive walking tour of the city’s iconic sights and holiday markets.

Savoring Chicago’s Iconic Cuisine

The walking tour next treats participants to a sampling of Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza and hot dogs – two of the city’s most iconic culinary specialties.

Participants savor Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, two of the city’s most iconic culinary specialties.

As the group strolls through the bustling streets, they’ll get to:

1. Savor a slice of piping hot, cheesy deep-dish pizza, a signature Chicago dish that’s become a global phenomenon.

2. Indulge in a classic Chicago-style hot dog, piled high with toppings like pickles, tomatoes, and a signature neon-green relish.

3. Sip on a refreshing, locally-brewed beverage to wash down the hearty bites.

4. Learn about the rich history and cultural significance of these beloved Chicago foods.

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Christkindlemarket: A Winter Wonderland

As the walking tour continues, participants find themselves immersed in the enchanting atmosphere of Christkindlemarket, a renowned German-inspired holiday market that transforms the city into a winter wonderland.

Filled with charming wooden stalls, the market offers an array of traditional German goods, from handcrafted ornaments to steaming mugs of mulled wine.

Visitors can browse the selection of unique gifts and trinkets, soak in the festive ambiance, and indulge in classic German delicacies like bratwurst and stollen.

This lively market provides a delightful dose of holiday cheer, making it a must-visit stop on the guided Chicago tour.

Optional VIP Christmas Beverage Sampling

For those seeking a more indulgent experience, the tour offers an optional VIP Christmas adult beverage sampling package for an additional $19.99 per person.

This package allows participants to:

1. Sample festive holiday cocktails at select establishments along the tour route.

2. Enjoy mulled wine or spiked hot apple cider to warm up.

3. Indulge in a shot of Irish cream or bourbon for a spirited treat.

4. Savor the flavors of the season with a glass of Christmas-themed craft beer.

The VIP package adds a touch of merriment to the already festive walking tour through Chicago’s historic Loop.

Preparing for the Walking Tour

To fully enjoy the Chicago Holiday Walking Tour, participants should prepare accordingly.

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear. Bringing a camera is recommended to capture the festive sights. The tour operates rain or shine, so be ready for various weather conditions.

Participants should arrive at the meeting point, Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, on time and look for the guide holding a Bobbys Bike Hike sign.

Following these simple preparation tips will ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience on the 3-hour guided holiday walking tour through Chicago’s Loop.

Embracing the Holiday Spirit

With the practical preparations out of the way, visitors can now fully enjoy the holiday cheer that permeates Chicago’s Loop during the guided walking tour.

The tour highlights some of the most festive attractions, including:

1. Exploring Millennium Park’s twinkling Christmas tree and lively ice-skating rink.

2. Sipping on warm, spiced apple cider while strolling through the winter wonderland.

3. Sampling the legendary Palmer House Hotel‘s original brownie, a Chicago institution.

4. Browsing the traditional Christkindlmarket for one-of-a-kind seasonal gifts and treats.

The tour’s energy and the guide’s enthusiasm help visitors fully embrace the magic of the holidays in the Windy City.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour does not allow pets. The tour is focused on walking and food sampling, which would not be suitable for bringing along a pet. Guests are advised to leave their pets at home for this tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be fully accessible for those with mobility issues. It involves 3 hours of walking through Millennium Park and other areas. Participants should check with the tour operator about any special accommodations before booking.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Food Option?

Yes, you can request vegetarian or gluten-free food options for the tour. The tour provider is accommodating and will work to meet any dietary requirements you may have. Just be sure to let them know in advance when booking.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. Participants can book individually, and the tour will run as scheduled regardless of group size. Travelers should check availability for desired start times and confirm their spot before the tour.

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Chicago Activities?

Yes, you can easily combine this guided walking tour with other Chicago activities. The 3-hour duration leaves flexibility to explore the city further before or after the tour.

The Sum Up

This guided holiday walking tour and food sampling in Chicago offers a delightful blend of festive sights, flavors, and experiences. From gliding across the ice rink to savoring iconic local cuisine and exploring the enchanting Christkindlemarket, it’s a chance to take in the magic of the city during the holidays. The optional VIP beverage sampling adds an extra touch of indulgence, making for an unforgettable holiday adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: