We believe are tour model is the best. Sometimes called a “pay-what-you-want” tour, our guides are incented to go out and deliver the best tour they possibly can – every single time.
There is no cost to joining a tour and you’re not required to tip.
Tour guides are not paid by the company for our free scheduled tours. Instead, they are compensated by our guests who leave a tip. At the end of the tour, if you felt the guide did a great job, you’re encouraged to leave a tip. You are not required. Please keep in mind these are how our guides get paid.
This is a question we get all the time. Tips vary greatly from person to person and group to group. We think that you should tip what you believe the tour was worth. Did the guide go above and beyond? Did you have a chance to ask the guide questions after the tour? (perhaps the most valuable part of all!) You should take all of this into consideration when deciding on what tip amount you want to leave.
The majority of paid walking tours in Chicago will cost at least $25 per person (some are as high as $80!) and it’s common practice to leave a tip on those tours as well. There is no doubt that our tours are one of the best tour values in all of Chicago.
We recommend tipping your tour guide between $15 – $20 per person in your group.
Free Chicago Walking Tours has been delivering exceptional tours to guests since 2015. We’re the only locally-owned and operated pay-what-your-want tour company in Chicago. Here is what makes our tours and company so special.
Cost. One of the most obvious reasons is cost. Free Chicago Walking Tours is a great option for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience Chicago without breaking the bank. Instead of paying a high fee for a guided tour, our model allow you to see the city and learn about its history and culture for free.
Local knowledge. Free Chicago Walking Tours are led by local guides who have an intimate knowledge of Chicago and its neighborhoods. Our guides can provide insider tips on the best restaurants, shops, and attractions to visit, and they can offer a unique perspective on Chicago’s history and culture.
Community building. We have designed our tours to foster a sense of community among travelers. They offer the opportunity to meet and interact with other travelers who share your interests and love of travel. This can lead to new friendships, travel tips, and even future travel companions.
