Chicago: The Devil In The White City Bus Tour

If you’re interested in a tour that combines history with a touch of the eerie, the Devil In The White City Bus Tour offers a fascinating look into Chicago’s darker past. Based on Erik Larson’s bestselling book, this three-hour journey takes you through the city’s Victorian-era sites, including the infamous Murder Castle of H.H. Holmes, often called America’s first serial killer. It’s a chance to explore history’s shadowy corners while enjoying the comfort of a guided bus ride.

What really makes this tour stand out for us is its focus on both the 1893 Columbian Exposition — the historic World’s Fair — and the chilling stories of Holmes that shadowed the city. Plus, for just $64, it’s a pretty accessible way to learn about Chicago’s darker chapters in a structured, engaging way. However, a note of caution: some stories can be quite graphic, so if you’re sensitive to horror or crime tales, you might want to prepare mentally.

This tour is best suited for those with a curiosity for history that’s a little darker, and for travelers who enjoy storytelling that blends fact with a spooky vibe. It’s not necessarily ideal for families with young kids, but if you’re into true crime or Victorian history, it’s a pretty compelling option.

Key Points

• Historical and spooky blend: Combines Victorian-era Chicago with tales of crime and murder.
• Visit haunted sites: Includes stops at the Congress Plaza Hotel and the site of Holmes’ Murder Castle.
• Includes iconic landmarks: Features the last remaining building from the 1893 Columbian Exposition.
• Guided experience: Led by an English-speaking guide with a focus on storytelling.
• Cost-effective: At $64, offers a memorable, themed experience without breaking the bank.
• Duration and timing: About three hours, usually in the afternoon, making it a manageable addition to your day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

The tour kicks off inside a bar in Chicago, where you’ll meet your guide—a spooky storyteller eager to share the city’s dark secrets. Arrive early because the bus departs promptly, and latecomers may miss out. Once aboard, the guide will take you through a series of stops, each with its own story and atmosphere.

The Haunted Congress Plaza Hotel

One of the first stops is the Congress Plaza Hotel, a building with a long history of ghost stories and eerie tales. We loved the way the guide painted a picture of its haunted reputation, making it feel like stepping into a ghost story that’s been unfolding for decades. The hotel’s history isn’t just spooky—it’s woven into Chicago’s Victorian fabric, and you’ll learn about its past residents and ghostly legends.

Prairie Avenue Historic District

Next, your bus will glide through the Prairie Avenue Historic District, which was once home to Chicago’s wealthy elite in the late 19th century. This area offers a glimpse into the opulence of the era, but the stories of crime, scandal, and murder add a darker layer to the historical veneer. It’s a reminder that beneath the grandeur, Chicago had a shadowy side.

The Last Remaining Building from the 1893 Fairgrounds

The tour also takes you to the last standing building from the 1893 Columbian Exposition. It’s a rare surviving piece of what was once a massive fairground that drew visitors from around the world. Seeing this structure gives a tangible sense of the scale and ambition of the fair, while the guide’s stories about the city’s transformation add depth to what might otherwise be just an old building.

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The Site of H.H. Holmes’ Murder Castle

Arguably the most chilling stop is the site of H.H. Holmes’ Murder Castle. You won’t visit the actual castle (most of it no longer exists), but your guide will recount the gruesome details of Holmes’ crimes, painting a vivid picture of one of America’s first serial killers. The stories here can be quite graphic, so if you’re squeamish or easily frightened, it’s worth noting that this part of the tour may be intense.

The Experience

The guide’s storytelling is a standout feature. Reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and engaging style, making even the grim tales compelling rather than just disturbing. As one reviewer noted, “The guide made the stories come alive, blending history and horror seamlessly.” It’s a tour that balances facts with atmospheric storytelling, which keeps the experience immersive without feeling overly sensational.

The bus itself is comfortable, and the three-hour duration feels just right—long enough to cover several sites without dragging. It’s an afternoon activity, perfect for those who want a taste of Chicago’s haunted past without committing to an all-day tour.

Practical Details

• The meeting point is inside a bar, which is a casual, central spot to gather.
• The tour includes a spooky guide speaking in English.
• You need to arrive early; punctuality is key since the bus departs promptly.
• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility for your schedule.
• Booking now and paying later is an option, helping you keep plans flexible.

Value for Money

At $64 per ticket, the tour offers a good mix of history, storytelling, and atmosphere. Compared to other Chicago tours, especially those centered on architecture or city sights, this one leans into niche interests like true crime and Victorian history. It’s not the cheapest, but the depth of storytelling and the unique focus make it worth considering.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a history buff curious about Chicago’s Victorian era or a fan of crime stories, this tour is likely to hit the spot. It’s particularly appealing for those who enjoy storytelling, atmospheric sites, and learning about the city’s darker stories. It’s not ideal for kids or travelers seeking a light, family-friendly experience, given the graphic content.

Travelers who enjoy guided bus tours and want to maximize their limited time in Chicago will find this a convenient way to combine storytelling with sightseeing. And if you’re into ghost stories or true crime, the tour hits just the right notes.

Final Thoughts

The Chicago: The Devil In The White City Bus Tour offers a distinctive take on Chicago’s history, blending the grandeur of the 1893 Columbian Exposition with the sinister tales of H.H. Holmes. It’s well-suited for travelers with a curiosity for the mysterious or macabre, and the storytelling quality elevates what could otherwise be just a standard sightseeing trip.

While it’s not perfect—some stories can be quite graphic and the meeting point is a bit informal—the overall experience is engaging and memorable. It’s an excellent way to get a feel for Chicago’s Victorian past and its darker corners, all from the comfort of a guided bus ride.

If you’re after something different from the usual city tour, and you’re comfortable with eerie stories, this experience is likely to add a fascinating layer to your Chicago trip.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about three hours, making it a manageable activity that fits comfortably into an afternoon.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $64 per person, which is reasonable considering the guided storytelling and site visits involved.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

What are the main stops?
Stops include the haunted Congress Plaza Hotel, Prairie Avenue Historic District, and the site of H.H. Holmes’ Murder Castle, plus the last remaining building from the 1893 Fairgrounds.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since some stories are graphic and intense, it’s better suited for adults or older teens interested in crime, history, and ghost stories.

Where do I meet the guide?
Inside a bar in Chicago; arriving early is recommended to ensure you don’t miss the departure.

Is the guide available in other languages?
No, the tour is conducted in English.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a compelling mix of history, horror, and storytelling—ideal for those wanting to explore Chicago’s darker side with a guide who knows how to spin a good yarn. Whether you’re a true crime fanatic or just looking for a unique experience, it’s worth considering as part of your Chicago itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: