Registration is now closed!
Explore Downtown Chicago:
Wednesday Guided Excursion
Are you looking to tour Chicago, but don't even know where to start? Let us be your tour guide and show you all Chicago has to offer. Using our pre-selected Wednesday Excursion tour will give you the peace of mind you need when exploring a new city and includes optional tour guide pathways you can follow along with so you won't get lost. Minimize headaches and maximize fun. Come join us and enjoy the highlights of Chicago!
Wednesday Excursion Timeline
8:00 AM and 8:15 AM
8:40 AM
9:32 AM
10:00 AM
10:00 - 6:30 PM
6:30 PM
6:35 PM
7:19 PM
7:30 PM and 8:00 PM
Free Hotel Shuttle to Train Station (2 shuttles running)
Train Departure from Northbrook
Arrive at Chicago Union Station
Hop on the Bus - Skydeck Chicago & Willis Tower
DISCOVER CHICAGO: Opportunity to explore Chicago (guided or on your own)
Meet back at Union Station
Depart from Union Station to Northbrook
Arrive at Northbrook Train Station
Free Shuttle back to hotel from train station (2 shuttles running)
Getting Around On Your Tour Day
All guided excursions will utilize Hotel Shuttle (included in registration), the Metra train (tickets purchased separately, see below) and the Big Bus Tour Chicago (included in registration).
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Metra: The Metra is the primary commuter rail system in the Chicago metropolitan area serving the city of Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. The Metra line closest to the hotel is the Northbrook station on the Milwaukee District North (MD-N) line that ends at Union Station in Chicago. Individuals will be responsible for purchasing one round-trip ticket, which can be purchased at the Metra station kiosk via credit card ($11.00), on the Metra train ($16.00), or on the Ventra app.
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Ventra App: The Ventra app is a fare payment system that allows users to manage and pay for transit in the Chicago area. It is a safe and convenient way to buy and display Metra tickets on your smartphone with a credit or debit card or a Ventra account, and can also be used to purchase tickets on CTA Rail Lines (subway or the L) in Chicago. Download the app for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Then use it to buy any kind of Metra (or CTA) ticket on the go, anytime, anywhere. Purchasing early in the app will save you money and time, so you can make the most of your excursion on Wednesday!
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Big Bus Tour Chicago (included in registration): The Big Bus Tour Chicago is the easiest way to see Chicago's top views, from its iconic skyscrapers to Lake Michigan. We will be taking the Red Route bus tour which allows you to hop off and explore 11 different stops, conveniently located close to the best Chicago landmarks and attractions. Then hop back on the bus and continue listening to the entertaining audio guides. Using Big Bus Chicago: Discover is a great way to see the top sights in Chicago without spending too much on expensive Ubers or waiting for a public bus.
Discounted tickets for Big Bus Tour and shuttle service can be purchased in advance via the GlueUp Registration Portal (secure your spot now through March 15)!