English| EUR
Suggested for you
More currencies
Choose a language
Chicago's hop-on hop-off buses operate on a duration-based pricing model rather than per-ride fares. Understanding what each ticket tier includes—and how operating hours affect your access window—helps you choose the right pass and maximize the value of your investment.
Quick answer
The Chicago hop on hop off price begins at $49 per person for a 24-hour Discover ticket, valid from first boarding. Buses run daily from 10:00 to 17:00, so starting early in the day ensures you utilize the full duration of your pass within operating hours. Multi-day tickets and combination passes with attraction entry are also available at higher price points, though specific tier pricing varies by season and booking channel.
Chicago's double-decker sightseeing buses measure time in calendar hours, not loops. A 24-hour ticket purchased at noon on Monday remains valid until noon on Tuesday, but since buses stop running at 17:00 each day, late-afternoon boardings forfeit evening and early-morning access built into the pass duration. The Chicago hop on hop off price structure reflects this operating model. The entry-level Discover ticket covers one full calendar day of unlimited boarding across all routes, with departures from the main hub at 98 E. Wacker Drive every 20 to 30 minutes during service hours. Extended passes—48-hour and 72-hour options—suit visitors planning multi-day itineraries who want flexibility to explore neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Millennium Park, and the Museum Campus across several mornings without repurchasing access. All tickets include recorded commentary in multiple languages and the freedom to disembark at any of the designated stops along the loop. Route coverage spans downtown landmarks, the Magnificent Mile shopping corridor, Navy Pier, and the historic architecture district where the city's skyscraper legacy began. Winter months see reduced frequency and occasional route modifications when weather affects upper-deck safety, though the base fare remains consistent year-round. Booking directly through the operator's website often yields lower rates than third-party resellers, and advance online purchases eliminate the need to queue at the departure kiosk during peak summer and holiday weekends. Children under a certain age typically ride at discounted rates, and family packages bundle multiple tickets at a reduced per-person cost. The sightseeing bus model works best for first-time visitors prioritizing breadth over depth—covering maximum ground in minimal time—and for travelers with limited mobility who benefit from narrated transportation between distant attractions without navigating the CTA train system or hailing rideshares at every stop.
“A 24-hour ticket purchased at noon remains valid until noon the next day, but buses stop running at 17:00—late starts forfeit built-in access.”
The Chicago hop on hop off bus service operates daily throughout the week. Visitors may access the service during the established morning and afternoon hours.
To maximize the utility of your 24-hour ticket, the best arrival window is 10:00–14:00. Arriving early ensures you have sufficient time to navigate the route and utilize the bus service during the daily operating hours.
Mild, 60–75°F; pleasant for open-air seating.
These months offer comfortable temperatures for touring the city loop without extreme heat or cold. Early departures are recommended to secure preferred seating on the upper deck.
Warm, 75–85°F; peak tourist season.
Expect higher foot traffic and frequent stops. Start your tour at 10:00 to experience the route before midday peak congestion occurs.
Cool, 50–70°F; crisp air.
The weather is often mild and stable during this period. Arriving between 10:00 and 12:00 allows for optimal sightseeing conditions throughout the afternoon.
—
Tuesday through Thursday mornings typically see lower passenger volumes. This timing provides a more relaxed pace for boarding and hopping off at designated stops.
Verdict: The best time to visit is Tuesday through Thursday between 10:00 and 12:00 during the months of May or September.
The primary departure point for the Chicago hop on hop off tour is located at 98 E. Wacker Drive. This central location in the Loop is highly accessible via public transit and walking.
CTA Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, or Purple Line to State/Lake station
CTA Bus route 2, 22, or 29 to Wacker & Michigan
From Millennium Park via Michigan Avenue
Drop off at 98 E. Wacker Drive
The departure point is situated along the Chicago Riverwalk area; we recommend arriving at the 98 E. Wacker Drive address early to locate the bus stop signage easily.
Prepare these essentials before your hop-on hop-off tour to ensure a smooth boarding experience and maximize your time on the route.
Everything you need to know about chicago hop on hop off price
The chicago hop on hop off price starts at 49 USD for a 24-hour Discover ticket per person. This base fare provides access to the bus loop allowing you to see major urban sights across the city.
Official pricing structures for the Chicago bus tour are maintained on the operator's website. We recommend checking the booking widget on this page to see if any seasonal offers are currently available for your travel dates.
The service operates daily from 10:00 to 17:00 throughout the week, including weekends. Since your ticket is valid for 24 hours, you have flexibility to explore the Magnificent Mile and other iconic destinations during these hours.
To make the most of your travel time, the best arrival window is between 10:00 and 14:00. Starting your day early ensures you can maximize the duration of your pass while the open-top deck is in operation.
All tours depart from 98 E. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601. This central location serves as the primary hub for the transit loop and provides easy access to nearby waterfront views and skyscrapers.
Yes, the flexible nature of this service allows you to alight at any stop to visit local landmarks or museums. You can then board the next available vehicle to continue your journey through the city.
The current chicago hop on hop off price covers your seat on the bus and the guided transit experience. It does not include separate entry fees for individual attractions, though it remains a convenient way to navigate between them.
Chicago Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours
Read more GuideChicago Hop On Hop Off Bus Stops
Read more GuideChicago Hop On Hop Off Map
Read more GuideChicago Hop On Hop Off Bus Times
Read more Tickets & toursChicago Hop On Hop Off Tickets
Read more GuideChicago Hop On Hop Off Route Map
Read more