Exploring the Chicago French Market
A few weeks back the Chicago Detours staff had a night out at the Chicago French Market. It’s a European-inspired market located near the Ogilve Transit Center in the West Loop, just a few blocks from where our Fulton Market Food Tour runs. We were invited as part of a VIP event to celebrate the unveiling […]
The History of Four Chicago Lighthouses
When one thinks of architecture in Chicago, lighthouses might not come to mind. But Chicago, long a preeminent American port, has an extended history with these vital, vertical structures. We research stories from Chicago history, architecture and culture like this while developing our live virtual tours, in-person private tours, and custom content for corporate events. You can join […]
Three Winter Beer Festivals in Chicago Area
Beer festivals in Chicago are numerous. A few days ago, we shared an overview of Chicago’s craft beer history. To further explore you need to taste the beer, of course! This winter brings a few beer festivals in Chicago to wet your whistle. You can always sign on for one our winter tours before one […]
Chicago Craft Beer History
Some cool beer festivals are coming up this winter. So before we talk about the party, let’s talk about the brew. There are over 60 microbreweries, nanobreweries, and brewpubs around town. Considering that, its hard to believe that less than a decade ago Chicago had only a handful of local breweries. For one, Chicago has […]
What To Do in Chicago at Christmas
Chicago at Christmas has a magical atmosphere with the holiday lights and people bustling by on the sidewalks. There is no lack of fun holiday events and activities that are great for family visiting from out of town. Here are a few ideas of things to do from Christmas through the end of December. The […]
Gifts for Curious People: Gift Cards Now Available
Our blog is primarily for giving our dear readers new insights into Chicago architecture, history and culture. But every once in a while we will indeed use it to toot our own horn. Consider this some tooting. We now have gift cards for people you love who love Chicago! You can buy these gift cards […]
Things to Do in Chicago Thanksgiving Weekend
Around the holidays in Chicago, a lot of the transplants head out and an influx of families come in. While things to do in the neighborhoods may shut down, downtown lots is left for fun activities. A few great things to do this Chicago Thanksgiving weekend: 1. Avoid Macy’s at all costs. It will be […]
Windy City in Theaters: The Chicago Film Industry
Transformers 3 and The Dark Knight were both recently filmed in Chicago. Indeed, the former’s epic car chase on Lower Wacker Drive is already iconic. Granted these are huge, expensive productions that closed some of the city’s busiest streets, but I always wonder – why aren’t there more movies filmed in Chicago? How big is the Chicago […]
A Summer Guide to Chicago Beaches and History
After two years as an ambitious, over-worked entrepreneur, I have decided this summer to make summertime fun in Chicago a top priority. But I still have history and guidance on my mind, even when relaxing. So here’s a guide to visiting some Chicago beaches. 63rd Street Beach This is the beach of Jackson Park, which […]
Biking In Chicago: A Long History of a Strong Community
I’ve been a proud to be biking in Chicago for almost two years now. Biking, to me, conjures feelings of childhood bliss. Memories of summers riding my purple Huffy, bedecked with psychedelic flowers. I’d ride it in a continuous loop in my parents’ driveway and, if I was daring, a neighbor’s sidewalk. Unfortunately, suburban sprawl […]
