Chicago: 360 CHICAGO & Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour (Save 20%)

When you’re planning a trip to the Windy City, it can be overwhelming deciding how to best see everything without feeling rushed or missing key spots. This combination tour, pairing a hop-on hop-off bus with a visit to 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck, promises a flexible way to explore Chicago at your own pace while enjoying some of the city’s most iconic sights. Based on reviews and details from the tour provider, it seems like a solid option for travelers wanting a laid-back yet comprehensive experience of Chicago’s highlights.

What we really like about this experience is the chance to see the city from multiple perspectives: the open-air double-decker bus offers a relaxed way to get around, and the spectacular skyline views from 1,000 feet at 360 CHICAGO are hard to beat. Plus, the fact that you can hop on and off at your leisure, with real-time bus tracking, makes it very flexible. One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a guided tour with fixed schedules—so if you’re someone who prefers a tightly organized itinerary, that might be a consideration. This tour feels well-suited for those who want an easy, customizable way to experience Chicago’s top sights, especially if you enjoy scenic views and urban exploration.

Key Points

• Flexible 2-day access allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Open-top double-decker bus gives a relaxed, sightseeing experience with live commentary.
• Access to 360 CHICAGO observation deck offers breathtaking skyline views from 1,000 feet.
• Combination of experiences offers good value, especially with the 20% bundle discount.
• Real-time bus tracking via a free app helps you plan your day effectively.
• Multiple languages available for commentary, including English and Spanish.
• Includes four digital self-guided tours to explore architecture, public art, and more.
• Great for those wanting a stress-free way to cover many of Chicago’s famous sights without a guided tour schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

First Impressions and General Overview

This experience combines two of Chicago’s most popular attractions—the hop-on hop-off bus and the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck—into a two-day package that aims to give visitors the freedom to see and do as much or as little as they like. The price point of $84 per person feels reasonable considering the inclusions, especially if you’re planning to spend a full day exploring the city.

What immediately catches your attention is the emphasis on flexibility. The free, real-time digital tracking app means you’ll always know when the next bus is coming, and you can jump off at any stop to explore neighborhoods like Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, or the Museum Campus. The buses run roughly every half hour, so while you won’t be on a strict schedule, you’ll have enough flexibility to make spontaneous stops.

The observation deck at 360 CHICAGO offers a change of pace—high above the city with panoramic views that are widely praised. Guests can enjoy relaxing at CloudBar or, for thrill-seekers, try the TILT experience, which leans visitors outward from the building on hydraulic glass. Upgrading to TILT on-site is straightforward, though it does come with an extra fee.

The Bus Ride Experience: What to Expect

Getting on the open-top, double-decker bus is a classic way to start your sightseeing in Chicago. The buses are designed for comfort, with professional digital commentary provided in multiple languages, including English and Spanish. The included earbuds help you tune into fascinating stories about Chicago’s architecture, art, and history without disturbing other passengers.

From the bus, you’ll see many of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as the Willis Tower, the Chicago River, Millennium Park, and the Magnificent Mile. One user review mentions that the bus “hit all of the places we wanted to see,” noting that the buses arrived every 30 minutes, which was very convenient.

Since you can hop on and off, you can spend more time at places that interest you—whether that’s browsing shops on Michigan Avenue or grabbing a slice of famous deep-dish pizza. The digital tours provided are also a nice touch, giving background on architecture, public art, and the riverwalk, adding depth to your experience.

The 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck: Highlights and Details

The crown jewel of this package is the observation deck at 875 N Michigan Ave (formerly the John Hancock Center). It’s generally praised for offering stunning views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan. The deck, located on the 94th floor, is one of the fastest elevators in the country—getting you up there in a matter of seconds.

Guests can relax at CloudBar, a sleek lounge area, and enjoy a drink while taking in the cityscape. For thrill-seekers, TILT provides an adrenaline rush—leaning you outward over the edge of the building on hydraulic glass. Reviews highlight the “best view in Chicago” and suggest that the building’s location makes it an even better vantage point than the Willis Tower Skydeck, which is a notable compliment.

One review mentioned that the experience was “complete and professional”, though it’s worth noting that some visitors experienced logistical issues with TILT, which can be upgraded on-site. Also, some guests have expressed wish for more language options, as French wasn’t available, but that’s a minor point in an overall positive review.

Combining the Two Experiences: Is It Worth It?

What makes this combo attractive is the bundle discount of 20%, making it a good deal if you’re planning to spend a day or two in Chicago. The flexibility to explore at your own pace, combined with the incredible skyline views from the top of the Hancock Center, provides a well-rounded snapshot of Chicago’s essence.

Some reviews mention that the bus service can sometimes be delayed—for example, one guest noted that buses sometimes took longer than 20 minutes to arrive, especially during busy times. While this is typical for city transit, it’s worth planning around these potential waits. The fact that you can start at any stop and that the bus schedule is transparent via the app helps mitigate this inconvenience.

The admission to 360 CHICAGO is well worth the price, especially if you enjoy panoramic views and a bit of thrill with TILT. Guests who visited the deck appreciated the “better than expected” views, and some said it was “the best view in Chicago”. The accessibility of the deck, with wheelchair options available, makes it inclusive for most travelers.

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Practical Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Tour

• Start early: To make the most of the hop-on hop-off bus, get an early start, especially since some stops can get crowded later in the day.
• Use the app: Download the free digital tracking app so you always know when the next bus is coming.
• Plan your visit to 360 CHICAGO: Check the weather forecast before heading up to the deck; clear days will give you the best views.
• Budget extra for TILT: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider upgrading onsite for the TILT experience—it’s quite popular.
• Pace yourself: While the bus route covers many sights, take your time at places like Millennium Park or Navy Pier for a more relaxed experience.
• Bring headphones: They’re provided, but if you prefer your own, bringing good quality earbuds can improve your audio experience.

How Do Reviews Reflect the Experience?

Overall, reviews are generally positive, with a 4.2-star rating based on 24 reviews. Many visitors praise the convenience of the bus route and the spectacular views from 360 CHICAGO. One reviewer from Germany called it the “best view in Chicago,” emphasizing that the Hancock Center’s location benefits the experience.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some mention delays or service inconsistencies, such as a review from Mexico stating, “service did not arrive,” highlighting that occasional issues can happen. Others expressed some disappointment about the limited availability of commentary languages, noting that French wasn’t available.

Despite these minor hiccups, the general consensus is that the tour offers good value for the price, especially when considering the combination of flexible sightseeing and breathtaking views.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travellers who value flexibility and want to explore Chicago at their own pace without the pressure of scheduled tours. It works well for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the city’s most famous sights along with stunning skyline views.

If you’re comfortable navigating city transportation and enjoy scenic viewpoints, you’ll find this package suits you well. It’s also suitable for those who want a relaxing yet engaging way to get around, with plenty of opportunities to customize their day.

While not specifically tailored for families or children, the tour’s accessibility features and open-air buses make it a comfortable option for most visitors. Just keep in mind that the TILT experience involves motion and height, so it might not be suitable for everyone.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Chicago Experience for You?

If your goal is to see Chicago without the stress of rigid schedules, this combo ticket offers a practical, enjoyable way to do it. The hop-on hop-off bus provides a scenic, informative journey around the city’s most famous neighborhoods, with the convenience of real-time tracking and digital guides. Pairing that with a visit to 360 CHICAGO guarantees breathtaking views that make the trip memorable.

The value really shines if you want to maximize your sightseeing without breaking the bank—especially with the 20% bundle discount. The flexibility to create your own itinerary, combined with stunning vistas from the observation deck, makes this a solid choice for urban explorers and casual visitors alike.

However, if you’re someone who prefers guided tours with set schedules and detailed commentary, or if you’re looking for a more educational or themed experience, you might want to explore other options. But for a straightforward, comfortable way to enjoy Chicago’s sights and skyline, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

Is there hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, hotel transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to redeem your voucher at Stop #1 or any stop along the route.

Can I buy TILT experience on the day of my visit?
Yes, you can upgrade onsite at 360 CHICAGO for TILT, though there is an additional fee.

How long do I have access to the hop-on hop-off bus?
You get 48 hours of unlimited hop-on hop-off access, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

Are multiple languages available for commentary?
Yes, professional digital commentary is available in English and Spanish, with earbuds provided.

Can I use this tour if I have mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most guests with mobility needs.

What if I want to visit the observation deck on a different day?
The ticket includes access to 360 CHICAGO, so you can visit at your convenience within the two-day window.

Is this experience suitable for families?
It’s generally accessible and can be enjoyed by most travelers, though the TILT ride involves height and motion, which might not suit everyone.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and be prepared for outdoor weather—layers are recommended if you’re visiting the deck, as it’s exposed to the elements.

This Chicago tour combo offers a practical way to enjoy the city’s skyline and attractions at your own pace, with beautiful views and the convenience of flexible sightseeing. It’s a good pick for anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic, and customizable Chicago experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: