Chicago: Tea Around Town With Curated Teas & Iconic Sights

If you’re craving a different perspective on Chicago, this Tea Around Town tour might just be your cup of tea. While I haven’t taken this particular trip myself, I’ve seen enough reviews and descriptions to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a relaxed, indulgent experience that blends sightseeing with the pleasure of sipping curated teas in a charming setting.

What really catches the eye is the unique combination of scenic city views and the comfort of a floral-themed double-decker bus. Plus, the inclusion of live entertainment and gourmet bites sounds like a delightful way to enjoy the city from a different angle. That said, this isn’t necessarily a high-energy, fast-paced tour — it’s more about savoring the moment.

One potential consideration is the price point of $79 per person for 1.5 hours — which might seem a bit steep if you’re looking for a more extensive or traditional sightseeing experience. But if you’re someone who appreciates a slower, more indulgent way to take in Chicago’s sights, this could be perfect. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy tea, light bites, and a cozy atmosphere with a touch of elegance — and perhaps for visitors looking for a memorable, Instagram-worthy moment.

Key Points

• Relaxing experience: A plush, floral-themed double-decker bus turns sightseeing into a comfortable, leisurely activity.
• Scenic views: Expect to see Chicago’s iconic landmarks like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Magnificent Mile from a new perspective.
• Curated teas and bites: Sample three premium teas paired with sweet and savory snacks, including scones with cream and jam.
• Live entertainment: Enjoy music or entertainment that adds a special touch to your journey.
• Convenient location: The meeting point at 200 E Randolph St near the Aon Center makes it accessible.
• Weather considerations: Tour operates rain or shine, so dress smart casual and be prepared for the weather.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect on Your Tea Tour

Imagine settling into a stylish, floral-themed double-decker bus that feels more like a cozy lounge on wheels. As you do, you’ll be greeted by attentive staff who serve three carefully curated teas—each with its own flavor profile—paired with a variety of light bites. Whether you prefer sweet pastries or savory treats inspired by local flavors, there’s a little something to satisfy your palate.

This isn’t just a tasting session; it’s a scenic cruise through Chicago’s most recognizable sights. As you sip your tea and nibble on your snacks, you’ll glide past landmarks like Millennium Park, with its famous Cloud Gate sculpture, the gleaming Wrigley Building, and bustling Navy Pier. The views are complemented by the city’s architecture and lakefront scenery, which you can admire from your comfortable spot aboard.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of sights, taste, and entertainment. Many reviews mention the live music or entertainment, which elevates the mood and makes the experience more engaging. The cozy, plush interior creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation, making it feel less like a hurried sightseeing hop and more like a special occasion.

The Route and Landmarks

The tour’s route is designed to showcase Chicago’s most iconic sights from a vantage point that you might not typically experience on land. Starting from the meeting point near Aon Center, you’ll begin your gentle glide through downtown, passing Millennium Park, where you can catch glimpses of the famous Cloud Gate, or “The Bean”.

Next, you’ll cruise past the Wrigley Building, a stunning example of historic architecture, and continue to Navy Pier, a lively hub of entertainment and lakeside fun. From there, the route takes you along the Magnificent Mile, with its high-end shops and towering skyscrapers, offering plenty of opportunities for photo ops.

Throughout the ride, you’ll also see architectural wonders and historic neighborhoods, giving you a taste of Chicago’s diverse urban landscape. With live entertainment, the atmosphere remains lively, turning this sightseeing tour into a leisurely, enjoyable experience.

Food and Beverage Details

One of the tour’s highlights is the premium tea service. You’ll sample three different teas, each selected to provide a variety of flavors, giving you a chance to discover new favorites. The light bites that accompany your teas are thoughtfully prepared, including sweet pastries, scones with clotted cream and jam, and some savory bites inspired by local flavors.

From the reviews, many guests appreciate the quality of the bites and teas, noting that they add a special touch to the tour. The pairing of flavorful snacks with scenic views makes for a memorable sensory experience.

Live Entertainment and Atmosphere

Adding to the charm is the live entertainment onboard. Whether it’s music or some other form of live performance, it’s intended to create a relaxed, cozy environment. Guests have mentioned how this entertainment enhances the overall vibe, transforming a simple sightseeing tour into a more memorable, immersive experience.

The interior of the bus is described as plush and floral-themed, which aligns with the idea of a “sanctuary” where you can unwind amid the sights and sounds of Chicago. Attentive service ensures that your experience feels personalized and comfortable, making it suitable for a variety of travelers.

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Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is a solid choice if you’re looking for a relaxing way to see the city without the hustle of traditional sightseeing tours. It’s especially appealing if you love tea, light bites, and a cozy environment, or if you’re an avid fan of scenic views combined with entertainment.

While not a typical family-oriented tour, it could work for older children or teens who enjoy a relaxed, indulgent outing. However, if you’re after more active or extensive sightseeing, you might find this tour a bit limited in scope.

The price of $79 might seem high for some, but considering the scenic views, gourmet teas, bites, and entertainment, many guests find it fair value — especially for a short, memorable experience that mixes indulgence with sightseeing.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meet at 200 E Randolph St, so plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early.
• The tour lasts about 1.5 hours and usually takes place in the afternoon.
• Dress smart casual — the interior is cozy, but Chicago’s weather can vary.
• The tour operates rain or shine, so bring an umbrella if needed.
• Wheelchair accessibility is available, which is a nice plus for those with mobility needs.
• No hotel pick-up or drop-off is included, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• No additional food or drinks are included outside the curated bites, so bring your own if desired.

The Sum Up

For anyone who enjoys a laid-back, sensory-rich way to experience Chicago, this Tea Around Town tour offers a charming blend of sights, flavors, and entertainment. The scenic views of Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Magnificent Mile from a plush, floral-themed double-decker bus create a picturesque setting that’s perfect for capturing photos and making memories.

While the price might seem a bit steep for a short tour, many find the quality of the tea service, the cozy ambiance, and the scenic route make it worthwhile. It’s a wonderful choice for tea lovers, those seeking a relaxing respite from busy sightseeing, or anyone wanting to add a touch of elegance to their Chicago trip.

If you’re after a unique, leisurely way to see the city with a little indulgence, this experience might just suit you. Just prepare for the weather, arrive on time, and enjoy a truly charming slice of Chicago.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While all guests, including children, need a ticket, it’s generally more suited for older guests who appreciate a relaxed, adult-style experience. Very young children might find the setting less engaging.

Does the tour operate regardless of weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather, especially if rain is forecast.

Can I bring extra food or drinks?
No, outside food and drinks are not included in the tour, and guests are expected to enjoy the curated bites provided.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, usually scheduled in the afternoon.

Where exactly do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at 200 E Randolph St, near the Aon Center.

Is there a refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility can help if your plans change unexpectedly.

This Tea Around Town journey offers a cozy, scenic, and flavorful way to see Chicago — perfect for those who want to indulge a little while discovering the city’s highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here: