Chicago Murder Mystery Tour

If you’re looking for a way to turn a typical sightseeing day into an interactive adventure, this Chicago Murder Mystery Tour might be exactly what you need. It’s a mix of history, mystery, and a little theatrical fun—perfect for those who enjoy a bit of drama mixed with their city exploration. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on plenty of glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it sounds like a lively, engaging experience that hits the sweet spot for many travelers.

What we love about this tour is how it combines learning about Chicago’s neighborhoods and notable landmarks with an interactive murder game, making history feel fresh and entertaining. Plus, the fact that they provide costumes and souvenir mugshots adds a playful touch. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that it’s a walking tour, so you’ll want to be comfortable on your feet and prepared for weather conditions—rain or shine.

This tour suits those who enjoy a blend of history, problem-solving, and a good story. Families with kids around middle school age seem to find it especially fun and accessible, thanks to its moderate difficulty level. If you’re a history buff who appreciates storytelling, or a group looking for a memorable way to explore Chicago’s neighborhoods, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Interactive and fun: It’s the only game-and-walking tour in Chicago, making it unique and engaging.
• Great for families and groups: The game level suits a wide age range, including kids around 7th grade.
• Learn local history: Discover Chicago’s neighborhoods, from the Gold Coast to Streeterville, with interesting facts woven into the storyline.
• Expert guides: Several reviews praise the guides, especially mentioning how knowledgeable and lively they are.
• Costume and photo fun: Enjoy playing detective in costume and capture souvenir mugshots.
• Weather-ready: Bring rain gear just in case, as the tour runs rain or shine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Chicago Murder Mystery Tour

This tour clocks in at about two hours and covers roughly a mile of downtown Chicago’s vibrant streets. The meeting point is the iconic Water Tower, a familiar and picturesque spot at 800 N. Michigan Ave., which makes for an easily accessible starting location. From there, your professional guide will lead you through the city’s bustling districts, where you’ll hunt for clues, interrogate suspects, and piece together a compelling murder mystery.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Included in the ticket price of $35 per person are the interactive murder mystery gameplay, costumes for playing and photos, and souvenir mugshots—a fun keepsake to remember the day. You also get to explore the Gold Coast neighborhood, with its stunning mansions and historic buildings, which adds a touch of elegance and visual appeal to the experience. Keep in mind that food and drinks aren’t included, so plan to eat before or after the tour.

The Gameplay and Atmosphere

The game itself is designed to be just the right level of challenge. Several reviews mention how engaging and well-built the storyline is. As you walk through downtown, your guide will introduce suspects, share clues, and keep the suspense alive. The guides are praised for their energy and storytelling skills, with some reviewers calling out specific guides like Andre for their ingenuity and ability to make the story come alive.

Participants don costumes and act out roles, making the experience more immersive. For many, this adds a layer of fun that turns sightseeing into a theatrical adventure. The mugshots add a humorous and memorable element, giving everyone a chance to pose as detectives or suspects.

The Neighborhoods and Landmarks

While solving the murder, you’ll pass some of Chicago’s most notable neighborhoods—like Streeterville—and learn about their history. One reviewer mentioned how the tour sheds light on areas after the Great Fire, which adds a historical depth to the fun. The walking pace is moderate, making it accessible for most people, but comfortable shoes are recommended.

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What Travelers Say

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with all 18 reviews rating it a perfect 5 out of 5. Many highlight the guides’ professionalism and enthusiasm, with Salma saying, “Ariel was amazing and very knowledgeable!” Others enjoyed how the mystery element balanced well with educational tidbits about Chicago’s infamous criminal past and notable districts.

Several reviews mention how suitable it is for families, with Reagan noting, “The murder mystery game was just the right level of difficulty for us and our 7th grader.” People also appreciate the engagement and storytelling, often mentioning how the guide’s personality made the experience memorable.

Practical considerations

• The tour runs every day at 11 am, 2 pm, 4:30 pm, and 7 pm, giving flexibility for scheduling.
• It’s wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal.
• Since it’s rain or shine, bringing rain gear is a smart move. The walk is about a mile, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• The tour ends just a few minutes from where it begins, making it easy to continue exploring or grab a meal afterward.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventure-loving travelers who enjoy puzzles, storytelling, and city tours. Families with kids around middle school age will likely find it particularly fun, but it’s also a good choice for couples or groups of friends who want a different way to explore downtown Chicago. If you’re a history buff with a penchant for crime stories, this tour offers some amusing insights along with a lively game.

It’s less ideal if you’re not comfortable walking or if you prefer a tour with more structured sightseeing rather than interactive gameplay. Also, if you’re traveling during bad weather and don’t want to get caught in the rain, be prepared with rain gear.

Final Thoughts

The Chicago Murder Mystery Tour offers a lively, engaging way to see the city through the lens of a detective story. It combines local landmarks, neighborhood insights, and a fun interactive game that keeps everyone involved. The guides receive high praise for their energy, knowledge, and ability to make the mystery come alive.

For travelers seeking something different from traditional sightseeing—something that mixes history, fun, and a dash of theatrical flair—this tour hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for families, groups, or anyone who enjoys a bit of mystery and storytelling woven into their exploration of Chicago.

While it’s not a sightseeing tour in the usual sense, it adds a memorable layer of entertainment to your visit. The price is reasonable for a two-hour experience, especially considering the included costumes and mugshots. If you’re looking for a tour that’s both fun and informative, and that gives you a chance to step into a story, this option deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the game is designed to be accessible and engaging for families, including kids around middle school age. It’s a fun way for kids to learn about Chicago while participating in an interactive mystery.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately two hours, covering about a mile of walking through downtown Chicago.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet your guide on the steps of the Water Tower at 800 N. Michigan Ave, a well-known Chicago landmark.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, and rain gear is recommended since the tour takes place rain or shine.

Are the guides professional and engaging?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews highlight how knowledgeable, energetic, and lively the guides are, making the experience memorable.

Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is accessible for wheelchairs, making it inclusive for a wider range of travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

If you’re eager to turn Chicago into your own crime scene adventure, this tour offers a delightful mix of entertainment, education, and neighborhood exploration. It’s a clever way to enjoy the city’s streets with a little mystery thrown in—definitely worth considering!

You can check availability for your dates here: