About
2 hrs
1.25 mi.
8 guests
$39.99
Visit 10 locations above and below street level as you discover their ties to movies
Step into the highlights of Chicago's cinema history with our guided walking tour Beneath the Big Screen: Chicago and Movies Underground.
Led by a knowledgeable guide with a Ph.D. in film, this 2-hour journey takes you through—and beneath—the heart of downtown Chicago. Yes, prepare to venture underground while traversing the city's film locations!
As you navigate the secret nooks of the Pedway and bustling streets of the city, expect to encounter familiar themes like gangster films and the caped crusader himself. But the true magic of Beneath the Big Screen lies in its exploration of lesser-known film subjects—like the first virtual reality movie and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of department store Santas.
On the 1.25-mile route, you'll encounter landmarks like historic City Hall, Chicago Cultural Center, and Millennium Station, where the Dark Knight once roamed with his Batpod. You'll also make stops below Daley Plaza and other notable sites, each with its own fascinating ties to Chicago's longstanding film scene.
Finally, as with all of our guided movie tours, your experience will be enhanced with a variety of media: videos, photographs, screenshots, soundbites, maps, and/or vintage movie fan magazines.
Whether you're a seasoned film buff or just looking for a new way to explore the city, Beneath the Big Screen: Chicago and Movies Underground promises to inform, entertain, and leave you with a newfound appreciation for Chicago's cinematic legacy.
Don't miss your chance to go underground and behind the scenes of Chicago's film world. Book your tickets now!
NOTE: There is a passing reference to suicide as we discuss Bill Murray's early career here in Chicago.
Movies/TV Highlighted
Southside with You (2016)
The Dark Knight (2008)
The Lake House (2006)
Barbershop 2 (2004)
What Women Want (2000)
The Fugitive (1992)
Child's Play (1988)
The Untouchables (1987)
The Blues Brothers (1980)
Medium Cool (1968)
Tarzan and His Mate (1934)
Stars: Bill Murray, Oprah Winfrey, Dorothy Lamour, Rock Hudson
Private Tours
Book this tour as a private or group tour! The private tour price listed below is a flat fee for up to 8 guests. If you have more than 8 in your party, please contact us to see if we can accommodate you.
Tour Specifics
Start/End Points
Depending on the season, this tour starts either at the Palmer House Hilton (Dec–Mar) or outside Walgreens on State St. (Apr–Nov). The tour ends at Daley Plaza, 50 W Washington St. Check your confirmation email for your exact meeting location.
Waivers
Guests must initial a digital general waiver of liability with Chicago Movie Tours when they book. Guardians must sign waivers for children under the age of 18.
Low Attendance
To ensure we can provide a fun, engaging, and economically feasible public tour, we typically need a minimum of 4 guests. Head over to Tour Terms and Conditions for more on this policy, including reasons behind it and your refund options if, in the rare instance, a tour is cancelled due to low attendance.
Parking/Transportation
By Car: Nearby Millennium Garages are located at Grant Park North Garage (25 N. Michigan Ave), Grant Park South Garage (325 S. Michigan Ave) and Millennium Park Garage & Millennium Lakeside Garage (5 S. Columbus Dr). Public Transit 'L': Red Line train to Monroe or Purple/Brown Line to Washington/Wabash.
Accessibility
Guests will need to climb up/down 2-5 sets of stairs. Escalators and elevators are available in some locations.
What to Bring
Please wear weather-appropriate clothing. Tours run rain, snow, or shine.
Restrooms
Public restrooms are available at several stops on this tour route.
Children
Guests ages 10 and up can attend.
Photography/Video
No video or audio recording of the tour, but take as many pictures as you'd like!
Cancellations and Refunds
You may cancel or amend your reservation 48 hours or more before the tour departs. Read more Tour Terms and Conditions.
What's Included
2-hour journey through Chicago's Loop, including underground and historic locations
Expert tour guide commentary, including little-known stories from Hollywood's and Chicago's pasts
Guided access inside locations where movies and TV series have filmed
Small group to generate engagement and foster a personalized tour
Visual and audio media to enhance your experience
Plenty of Instagram opportunities
Mini goodie bags! 💙
Reviews
Charles and Judy
Chicago and Movies Underground
August 2, 2024
Saya
Chicago and Movies Underground
July 28, 2024
Carol
Chicago and Movies Underground
July 26, 2024
