You booked this experience
Make your trip unforgettable

Iconic Action Film and Movie Locations 1 Day Tour in Chicago

3 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 3 reviews collected by Key West Private Charters and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Chicago, USA
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 28 (0) days in advance.

9 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Overview

From the Gotham chaos in The Dark Knight to the explosive battles of Transformers, Chicago’s skyline has played a starring role in countless blockbusters. On today’s Chicago Film and Television Tour, you'll explore the city through the lens of movie magic. Begin at one of Chicago’s most iconic theaters, seen in The Blues Brothers and Transformers. Stroll through downtown streets flanked by skyscrapers featured in the Joker’s money truck chase scene in The Dark Knight. At Union Station, relive the dramatic staircase sequence from The Untouchables, where Kevin Costner’s character battles criminals as a baby carriage tumbles down. Visit the University of Chicago, whose Gothic architecture and academic prestige have made it a popular filming location. Along the way, admire Chicago’s rare mechanical lift bridges and architectural wonders that make the city a perfect backdrop for filmmakers. In Chicago, every corner holds a scene, and every street tells a story—waiting for you to explore.

What's Included

  • Professional transportations (Type of vehicle used based on the number of guests attending that day)
  • Gratuities for the driver and tour guide
  • Professional Driver and Guide (or Driver-Guide)
  • Meals Meals, Food and Drinks
  • Personal expenses
See 2 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

201 East Randolph Street
Chicago, IL 60601, USA

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Chicago

The tour duration already includes lunch and rest stops, traffic delays, and driving hours between each location throughout the day. Please note that the total duration may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.Itinerary:The Blues Brothers Location: Chicago Theater (Outside visit, 60 mins) → The Dark Knight Location: LaSalle St Bridge / Wacker Dr (40 mins) → Men in Black II Location: Chicago Federal Building (Outside visit, 30 mins) → The Untouchables Location: Chicago Union Station (45 mins) → Transformers: Dark of the Moon Location: Museum Of Science Industry: Coal Mine (Outside visit, 10 mins) → Olympus Has Fallen Location: The University of Chicago (45 mins) → Chicago P.D Location: Adler Planetarium (Outside visit, 20 mins) → The Divergent: Chicago Water Tower & John Hancock Center (Outside visit, 15 mins) → Divergent Location: Chicago Navy Pier (30 mins) → Harry Potter Shop Chicago (45 mins)
Read more

3 hours Admission Ticket Free

The Chicago Theatre

Outside Visit Opened on October 26, 1921, the Chicago Theatre was once hailed as the "Wonder Theatre of the World" for its stunning architecture, elegant lobby, sweeping staircase, and opulent auditorium. Designed by architects Nelius and George Rapp, it holds the distinction of being the first grand, luxurious movie palace in the United States. After a major restoration, the theater reopened on September 10, 1986, with a performance by Frank Sinatra. Since then, it has welcomed some of the biggest names in entertainment, from the Allman Brothers Band and Blues Traveler to Ellen DeGeneres, Aretha Franklin, Kathy Griffin, the Gipsy Kings, the Indigo Girls, and many more.
Read more

1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Chicago River

Chicago River and Bridge District LaSelle St Bridge / Wacker Dr Now we arrive at the Chicago River, often referred to as the "Manhattan Canyon of Chicago" for its dramatic skyline of towering buildings flanking both sides. This cinematic corridor has served as the backdrop for major Hollywood productions, including the iconic money truck chase in The Dark Knight, as well as scenes from Spider-Man 2 and Transformers. The surrounding architecture offers filmmakers a perfect urban setting, while Chicago’s distinctive lift bridges—engineering marvels rarely seen elsewhere—add a unique mechanical charm to the cityscape.
Read more

40 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Kluczynski Federal Building

Outside Visit, Chicago Federal Center The Chicago Federal Center is a striking complex of modernist architecture located in the heart of downtown Chicago. Designed by famed architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, the center includes the Kluczynski Federal Building, the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse, and a post office, all unified by a sleek black steel-and-glass design and a shared open plaza. At the heart of the plaza stands Alexander Calder’s bold, red Flamingo sculpture—an iconic contrast to the minimalist architecture and a favorite photo spot for visitors. The Federal Center’s clean lines, imposing presence, and government atmosphere have made it a go-to filming location for action and spy thrillers, serving as the perfect backdrop for scenes involving surveillance, covert operations, and high-stakes drama. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or a movie buff, the Chicago Federal Center offers a unique blend of design, culture, and cinematic intrigue.
Read more

30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Union Station

Chicago Union Station, located in the heart of downtown, is more than just a major transportation hub—it’s also a cinematic landmark. Its grand architecture has made it a favorite filming location for Hollywood. One of its most iconic moments appears in the 1987 film The Untouchables, featuring the unforgettable staircase scene where Kevin Costner’s character pursues a criminal as a baby carriage tumbles down the steps—a sequence etched into film history. The station also served as a backdrop in Batman v Superman, standing in for Gotham during Bruce Wayne’s arrival.
Read more

45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

Outside Visit The Chicago Museum of Science and Industry is not only one of the largest science and technology museums in the U.S., but also a popular filming location for movies and TV shows. Its neoclassical exterior and high-tech interior make it ideal for scenes set in both futuristic and historical scientific settings. In Transformers: Dark of the Moon, the museum’s main hall and underground passages were featured as part of a secret military and research facility. Its dramatic spaces have also served as the backdrop for scenes involving space capsule research and other high-stakes scientific storytelling.
Read more

10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

University of Chicago

Founded in 1890 by oil magnate John D. Rockefeller, the University of Chicago is a prestigious institution and a founding member of the Association of American Universities. Consistently ranked among the top ten universities in the world, its main campus is located in the Hyde Park and Woodlawn neighborhoods of South Chicago. The campus is known for its striking Gothic architecture, reminiscent of Oxford University. The historic heart of the university, known as the Main Quadrangle, was designed as part of a "Master Plan" by architect and trustee Henry Ives Cobb. It features six interconnected quadrangles, each surrounded by architecturally significant academic buildings.
Read more

45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Adler Planetarium

Outside Visit Adler Planetarium in Chicago is a captivating public museum dedicated to astronomy and astrophysics. Founded in 1930 by philanthropist Max Adler, its mission is to inspire curiosity and deepen understanding of the universe. Beyond its educational exhibits and cutting-edge astronomy programs, Adler offers one of the most stunning views of the Chicago skyline against the backdrop of Lake Michigan, making it a favorite spot for photographers and visitors alike.
Read more

20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Historic Water Tower

Outside Visit The Chicago Water Tower is a historic Gothic-style stone landmark located at 806 North Michigan Avenue in the Near North District. Remarkably, it is one of the few structures to survive the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, symbolizing the city’s resilience and spirit of rebuilding. Nearby stands the iconic John Hancock Building, famous for its rooftop scenes in The Dark Knight and Transformers: Dark of the Moon. Together, their soaring heights and distinctive outlines make Chicago the perfect setting for thrilling cinematic “air battles.”
Read more

15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

John Hancock Center

Outside Visit The John Hancock Building is famous for its dramatic rooftop battle scenes in The Dark Knight and Transformers: Dark of the Moon. Its towering height and distinctive silhouette, along with Chicago’s skyline, make the city a perfect backdrop for thrilling aerial action sequences.
Read more

15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Navy Pier

Navy Pier, nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, is a historic Chicago landmark with nearly a century of history. Today, it’s a vibrant destination where locals and visitors alike enjoy leisure and entertainment. The pier’s distinctive U-shape features a central plaza lined with shops and a scenic walkway along the water’s edge, perfect for taking in stunning views of Lake Michigan. At the pier’s end, where the Chicago River meets the lake, you’ll find a plaza marked by a large iron anchor—a memorial gift from the cruiser USS Chicago, honoring the pier’s rich heritage.
Read more

30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Harry Potter Shop Chicago

This spot is the birthplace of Chicago’s underground bar scene and home to the largest Butterbeer bar in the United States. Visitors can enjoy classic Butterbeer drinks alongside Chicago-exclusive Butterbeer popcorn. The venue also offers a unique selection of Harry Potter merchandise and movie-inspired designs available only in Chicago.
Read more

45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 11 more stops

Additional Info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant travelers may join if they are under 24 weeks pregnant by the end of the trip.
  • Children under 6 may require a booster seat by law. Most tours operate with coach buses where booster seats are not required. However, for certain winter departures that may use vehicles such as minivans or vans, booster seats may be needed. Please contact the tour operator in advance if needed. Rental service is also available upon request.
  • For a comfortable and enjoyable experience, we recommend bringing comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, cash, and drinks for hydration.

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Iconic Action Film and Movie Locations 1 Day Tour in Chicago?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CST).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-132218P636

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
3 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 3 traveler reviews collected by Key West Private Charters and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
3
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 28 (0) days in advance.

Similar Tours & Activities

Embers of the Windy City: Chilling Chicago Ghost Tours

Come on our chilling ghost tour presented by US Ghost Adventures! Windy City Ghosts walking Ghost Tour provides a look into the darkness that lurks …More

Come on our chilling ghost tour presented by US Ghost Adventures! Windy City Ghosts walking Ghost Tour provides a look into the darkness that lurks...

1 hour Free Cancellation
4.6 (137)
from
$26

Chicago Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

Discover Chicago at your own pace with Big Bus. Travel aboard an open-top, double-decker bus and enjoy panoramic views of the city's most famous landmarks, …More

Discover Chicago at your own pace with Big Bus. Travel aboard an open-top, double-decker bus and enjoy panoramic views of the city's most famous landmarks,...

2 hours Free Cancellation
4.1 (2,189)
from
$49

Intro to Chicago Architecture

Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of how a muddy Midwestern outpost transformed into the global capital of architecture. Experience everything from early, classically inspired …More

Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of how a muddy Midwestern outpost transformed into the global capital of architecture. Experience everything from early, classically inspired...

1 hour 45 minutes Free Cancellation
5.0 (26)
from
$35

Chicago Highlights Running Tour

Join us for the most memorable experience you will have while visiting Chicago! For runners from around the world, this is definitely a “bucket list” …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out

Join us for the most memorable experience you will have while visiting Chicago! For runners from around the world, this is definitely a “bucket list”...

1 hour 15 minutes Free Cancellation
from
$44

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Chicago River 90 Minute Architecture Tour

Be inspired by the captivating, visual art that is Chicago’s legendary architecture, and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing, dynamic legacy for all to …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out

Be inspired by the captivating, visual art that is Chicago’s legendary architecture, and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing, dynamic legacy for all to...

1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.8 (11,096)
from
$45

Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

An authentic Chicago tradition since 1935, this is the tour that started it all. This unique excursion tells the story of more than 200 years …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out

An authentic Chicago tradition since 1935, this is the tour that started it all. This unique excursion tells the story of more than 200 years...

1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.8 (2,424)
from
$45

Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

Escape into Chicago's underworld on a crime and mob tour with stops on-and-off the luxury, climate-controlled bus. Explore historic crime scenes with great photo opportunities. …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.6 (3,568)

Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

4.6 (3,568)

Escape into Chicago's underworld on a crime and mob tour with stops on-and-off the luxury, climate-controlled bus. Explore historic crime scenes with great photo opportunities....

90 to 120 minutes Free Cancellation
4.6 (3,568)
from
$49

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out

Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich...

45 minutes Free Cancellation
4.8 (3,587)
from
$28

What's Included

Activity name

  • Professional transportations (Type of vehicle used based on the number of guests attending that day)
  • Gratuities for the driver and tour guide
  • Professional Driver and Guide (or Driver-Guide)
  • MealsMeals, Food and Drinks
  • Personal expenses

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • For safety and communication purposes during the trip, a valid and reachable phone number is required for participants.
  • Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant travelers may join if they are under 24 weeks pregnant by the end of the trip.
  • Children under 6 may require a booster seat by law. Most tours operate with coach buses where booster seats are not required. However, for certain winter departures that may use vehicles such as minivans or vans, booster seats may be needed. Please contact the tour operator in advance if needed. Rental service is also available upon request.
  • For a comfortable and enjoyable experience, we recommend bringing comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, cash, and drinks for hydration.
  • Please double-check your booking details (name and contact info), as any errors may result in additional personal costs.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 55 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name