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Explore Chicago Movie Tours' past and current talks, see who we've worked with, and find the perfect program—virtual or in person—for your group. Talks Archive See Kelli's past and current talks—then book one for your group! Explore Kelli's past and current talks , see whom she's worked with, and find the perfect program —virtual or in person—for your group. Filter by Program(s) Filter by Venue Filter by Host Type Filter by Delivery Reset Filters 2026 Cary Area Public Library From Ferris to the Frontlines: Chicago's Art Institute and Grant Park in the Movies BOOK 2026 Helen Plum Library Countdown to the Oscars: Illinois Winners, Scandalous Moments, and Oscar Bait BOOK 2026 Naperville Public Library Women and Early Cinema in Chicago: Untold Stories Behind the Silent Screen BOOK 2026 Homer Township Public Library St. Patrick's Day in The Fugitive BOOK 2026 Orland Park Public Library Black Movie History in Chicago: Cinematic Milestones and Sacred Grounds BOOK 2026 Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District Mardi Gras and Movies in the Midwest BOOK 2026 Morton Grove Public Library The Oscars and Chicago BOOK 2026 World Virtual Tours The First Ferris Wheel in Film BOOK 2025 World Virtual Tours While You Were Sleeping in Chicago: A Holiday Stroll BOOK 2025 Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District Festivus 101: A Celebration for the Rest of Us BOOK 2025 CJE Senior Life Women and Early Cinema in Chicago: Untold Stories Behind the Silent Screen BOOK 2025 Green Hills Public Library District Holiday Chaos: Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" BOOK 2025 Parker Life Festivus 101: A Celebration for the Rest of Us BOOK 2025 Base.club Chicago, Christmas Movies, and Class BOOK 2025 Commonwealth Senior Living Holiday Chaos: Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" BOOK 2025 Clarendale Six Corners Chicago, Christmas Movies, and Class BOOK 2025 World Virtual Tours Movie Makeup and Toupees in 1920s Chicago BOOK 2025 Bridgeview Public Library Chicago and The Wizard of Oz BOOK 2025 Base.club Chicago and The Wizard of Oz BOOK 2025 Skokie Country Club Beyond the Blues Brothers BOOK 2025 Fountaindale Public Library District Horror Movies in Chicago: Child's Play and The Fury BOOK 2025 DePaul University Blues Brothers on Location: Prisons, Malls, and City Halls BOOK 2025 CJE Senior Life Horror Movies in Chicago: Child's Play and The Fury BOOK 2025 Base.club Chicago's World's Fairs and the Movies BOOK 2025 Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District Horror Movies in Chicago: Child's Play and The Fury BOOK 2025 World Virtual Tours From Ferris to the Frontlines: Chicago's Art Institute and Grant Park in the Movies BOOK 2025 Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District The Breakfast Club: Chicago, Music, and a Generation Defined BOOK 2025 Bridgeview Public Library From Ferris to the Frontlines: Chicago's Art Institute and Grant Park in the Movies BOOK 2025 Commonwealth Senior Living Inside Gene Kelly's House BOOK 2025 World Virtual Tours Chicago Movie Houses: Hidden Histories and Lost Glamour BOOK 2025 CJE Senior Life Singin' in the Rain and Chicago BOOK 2025 Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District The Art of Ferris Bueller BOOK 2025 Orland Park Public Library The Art of Ferris Bueller BOOK 2025 Helen Plum Library Comedy in Chicago: The Marx Brothers and Bob Newhart BOOK 2025 Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District Cinematic Canines and Circus Stars in Chicagoland Cemeteries BOOK 2025 CJE Senior Life America's Most Famous Diner, Chicago Style BOOK 2025 Homer Township Public Library Chicago and The Wizard of Oz BOOK 2025 World Virtual Tours Chicago and Movies on the Mississippi River BOOK 2025 Tinley Park Public Library Beyond the Blues Brothers BOOK 2025 CJE Senior Life Gender in Hollywood: Women BOOK 2025 Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District Comedy in Chicago: The Marx Brothers and Bob Newhart BOOK 2025 World Virtual Tours Chicago's World's Fairs and the Movies BOOK 2025 CJE Senior Life Roller Coasters, Racism, and Chicago Home Movies BOOK 2025 Naperville Public Library Beyond the Blues Brothers BOOK 2025 CJE Senior Life A Brief History of Hollywood Film BOOK 2025 World Virtual Tours Chicago Murals and Movie Stars BOOK 2025 World Virtual Tours Chicago and The Wizard of Oz BOOK 2025 CJE Senior Life Women's Fashion, Ferris Wheels, and Film at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair BOOK 2025 White Oak Library District Women's Fashion, Ferris Wheels, and Film at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair BOOK 2025 Palos Heights Public Library St. Patrick's Day in The Fugitive BOOK 2025 Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District St. Patrick's Day in The Fugitive BOOK 2025 Bridgeview Public Library St. Patrick's Day in The Fugitive BOOK 2025 CJE Senior Life Mardi Gras and Movies in the Midwest BOOK 2025 Oak Park Public Library Black Movie History in Chicago: Cinematic Milestones and Sacred Grounds BOOK 2025 Helen Plum Library Mardi Gras and Movies in the Midwest BOOK 2025 Fountaindale Public Library District Black Movie History in Chicago: Cinematic Milestones and Sacred Grounds BOOK 2025 CJE Senior Life Countdown to the Oscars: Illinois Winners, Scandalous Moments, and Oscar Bait BOOK 2024 CJE Senior Life Chicago, Christmas Movies, and Class BOOK 2024 Elmhurst Public Library Holiday Chaos: Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" BOOK 2024 White Oak Library District Holiday Chaos: Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" BOOK 2024 Bridgeview Public Library Holiday Chaos: Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" BOOK 2024 Homer Township Public Library Holiday Chaos: Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" BOOK 2024 Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District Holiday Chaos: Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" BOOK 2024 Helen Plum Library Beyond the Blues Brothers BOOK 2024 Bridgeview Public Library Horror Movies in Chicago: Child's Play and The Fury BOOK 2024 CJE Senior Life Comedy in Chicago: The Marx Brothers and Bob Newhart BOOK 2024 CJE Senior Life Hollywood Bites: From Golden Age Glamour to Rom-Com Delights BOOK 2024 White Oak Library District Beyond the Blues Brothers BOOK 2024 Fremont Public Library Gender in Hollywood: Women BOOK 2024 Homer Township Public Library Beyond the Blues Brothers BOOK 2024 Arlington Heights Senior Center A Brief History of Hollywood Film BOOK 2024 CJE Senior Life Cinematic Canines and Circus Stars in Chicagoland Cemeteries BOOK 2024 Indian Prairie Public Library Gender in Hollywood: Women BOOK 2024 Bridgeview Public Library Hollywood Bites: From Golden Age Glamour to Rom-Com Delights BOOK 2024 Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District The Oscars and Chicago BOOK 2024 CJE Senior Life Black Movie History in Chicago: Cinematic Milestones and Sacred Grounds BOOK 2024 Aurora Public Library District Black Movie History in Chicago: Cinematic Milestones and Sacred Grounds BOOK 2024 CJE Senior Life The Making of Contagion: Chicago as Pandemic Stage BOOK 2023 CJE Senior Life Festivus 101: A Celebration for the Rest of Us BOOK 2023 Wilmette Historical Museum Chicago, Christmas Movies, and Class BOOK 2023 CJE Senior Life Movie Makeup and Toupees in 1920s Chicago BOOK 2023 Elmwood Park Public Library Beyond the Blues Brothers BOOK 2023 CJE Senior Life Film Noir: Hollywood's Darkest Timeline BOOK 2023 Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District Beyond the Blues Brothers BOOK 2023 CJE Senior Life Chicago and The Wizard of Oz BOOK 2023 CJE Senior Life Inside Gene Kelly's House BOOK 2023 Bridgeview Public Library Chicago Murals and Movie Stars BOOK 2023 Round Lake Area Public Library District Beyond the Blues Brothers BOOK 2023 Fremont Public Library Gender in Hollywood: Men BOOK 2023 CJE Senior Life Chicago Movie Houses: Hidden Histories and Lost Glamour BOOK 2023 Homer Township Public Library The Art of Ferris Bueller BOOK 2023 CJE Senior Life Chicago Murals and Movie Stars BOOK 2023 White Oak Library District Gender in Hollywood: Women BOOK 2023 Oak Park Public Library Chicago Murals and Movie Stars BOOK 2023 Deerfield Public Library Mardi Gras and Movies in the Midwest BOOK 2023 Niles-Maine Public Library District The Art of Ferris Bueller BOOK 2023 Elmhurst Public Library Art of Ferris Bueller BOOK 2022 Thompson Coburn LLP Festivus 101: A Celebration for the Rest of Us BOOK 2022 Orland Park History Museum Chicago, Christmas Movies, and Class BOOK 2022 Bridgeview Public Library Chicago, Christmas Movies, and Class BOOK

On a 90-minute guided movie walking tour, uncover Hollywood's dark past in Chicago through The Wizard of Oz, cocaine movies, and gangsters The Wizard of Oz and Dark Hollywood in Chicago On a 90-minute guided movie walking tour, uncover Hollywood's dark past in Chicago through The Wizard of Oz, cocaine movies, and gangsters Read Reviews Book Public Tour Book Private Tour About 1.5 hrs 1.25 mi. 8 guests $39.99 On a 90-minute guided movie walking tour, uncover Hollywood's dark past in Chicago through The Wizard of Oz, cocaine movies, and gangsters Meet up in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood for The Wizard of Oz and Dark Hollywood in Chicago , a 90-minute guided outdoor walking tour on the darker side of the silver screen! A park inspired by The Wizard of Oz , homes designed by Chicago's leading architect, and a theater built for moving pictures seem friendly enough. But a closer look at these three Chicago locations leads you down a destructive path closely tied to Hollywood. You'll start the tour in a neighborhood park devoted to The Wizard of Oz . Here, you'll learn about Chicago's connections to the beloved children's story. But also, brace yourself for untold, darker tales behind the iconic 1939 movie that may leave you shocked. Your adventure with The Wizard of Oz and Dark Hollywood in Chicago continues as you stroll down a tree-lined street, surrounded by houses with a rich history that whisper secrets of Hollywood's scandalous silent era. As you explore these architectural gems, your expert PhD tour guide , will disclose mind-boggling connections to "cocaine comedies." From there, you'll follow a narrow brick road. It's not yellow, alas. But look carefully as you walk, and you'll find written remnants of Chicago's past. On the final stretch, your tour takes a thrilling turn into the heart of Chicago's notorious gangster history, seamlessly interwoven with the glamour of Hollywood's golden era. Along your The Wizard of Oz and Dark Hollywood in Chicago journey, film clips, screenshots, newspaper clippings, and vintage movie magazines will transport you back in time, offering glimpses into the scandalous happenings of yesteryear. Don't miss your chance to be part of this adventure in Chicago. Book your spot! Movies/TV Highlighted Public Enemies (2009) High Fidelity (2000) The Wizard of Oz (1939) Get Out and Get Under (1920) The Mystery of the Leaping Fish (1916) For His Son (1912) The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1910) Public Tour Dates Show More Dates Private Tours Book this tour as a private or group tour! The private tour price listed below is a flat fee for up to 8 guests. If you have more than 8 in your party, please contact us to see if we can accommodate you. Book Private $399 Tour Specifics Start/End Points The tour starts at Oz Park, 2021 N Burling St. next to the Tin Man sculpture (W. Webster/N. Larrabee). The tour ends at 2433 N Lincoln Ave. Waivers Guests must initial a digital general waiver of liability with Chicago Movie Tours when they book. Guardians must sign waivers for children under the age of 18. Low Attendance To ensure we can provide a fun, engaging, and economically feasible public tour, we typically need a minimum of 4 guests. Head over to Tour Terms and Conditions for more on this policy, including reasons behind it and your refund options if, in the rare instance, a tour is cancelled due to low attendance. Parking/Transportation If available, free parking spots run along the residential streets near Oz Park. Public transit : take the Brown Line or Purple Line to Armitage, or take the Brown, Purple, or Red Line to Fullerton. Our starting point is a 0.4 mile-walk from the Armitage 'L' station and a 0.5-mile walk from the Fullerton 'L' station. Accessibility All of our stops on the walking tour have sidewalks and crosswalks. We will travel down an original brick-paved road. What to Bring Please wear weather-appropriate clothing. Tours run rain or shine. Restrooms A Target store with a public restroom is near the start of our tour route. Children While this tour explores the children's story The Wizard of Oz , some content may not be appropriate for guests under age 13. Photography/Video No video or audio recording of the tour, but take as many pictures as you'd like! Cancellations and Refunds You may cancel or amend your reservation 48 hours or more before the tour departs. Read more Tour Terms and Conditions . What's Included Guided 90-min. outdoor walking tour in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, including buildings with National Historic and Chicago Landmark status Expert tour guide commentary from a PhD in film Obscure stories about Chicago's ties to The Wizard of Oz and Hollywood's scandalous past Small group to generate engagement and foster a personalized tour Visual and audio media to enhance your experience Plenty of Instagram opportunities Mini (Oz-themed) goodie bags! 💙 Reviews Michelle Wizard of Oz in Chicago average rating is 5 out of 5 What a gem of a find our tour was! A friend of mine and I did the Dark Hollywood tour today, as it sounded intriguing and something different to do. I had so much fun! Learned a ton about Chicago, Hollywood, The Wizard of Oz and other films, and even some broader history that I never knew, and I found it all fascinating. Also loved the incredible photos that the tour guide brought pertaining to all the relevant history. Tour guide was lovely and welcoming of all my questions. I look forward to taking another Movie Tour at the old Joliet prison in September! July 7, 2024 Todd Miller Wizard of Oz in Chicago average rating is 5 out of 5 Best Chicago tour I’ve been on. Don’t miss it!! November 11, 2023 Sarah Wizard of Oz in Chicago average rating is 5 out of 5 So glad I made the decision to attend my first tour with Chicago Movie Tours (Dark Hollywood and The Wizard of Oz in Chicago at Oz Park). The tour was fun and interactive. Kelli did a fantastic job of presenting and leading! She was a joy! Different mediums were used (book, photo, video, examining statues on the tour, & stories) to share history and movie knowledge. I learned a lot of information that I’ve been excited to share with others! Kelli did a wonderful job bringing Chicago and (multiple) movies together on this tour. Looking forward to attending more tours! November 1, 2023 Load More Reviews

Discover Chicago’s rich movie history through our public guided walking tours, led by a film expert with a Ph.D. Public Tours Discover Chicago’s movie history through public walking tours, led by a film expert Pick Your Tour The Art of Ferris Bueller Movies and TV in Union Station Chicago and Movies Underground From Fairground to Film Set Wizard of Oz in Chicago Chicago and Movies in Prison Public Tours FAQs What Sets These Tours Apart? Led by a Film Expert Unlike other tours in Chicago, ours are led by an film expert with a PhD. She offers you unparalleled commentary on moviemaking and the city's film legacy. Small Group, Personalized Experience Enjoy a more personal, intimate experience with small group sizes to ensure you get the most out of your tour. Behind-the-Scenes Insights Learn how Chicago’s architecture, streets, and skyline shape memorable scenes. Get insider stories about how filmmakers bring those scenes to life. Great for Locals and Tourists Alike Whether you're a long-time Chicagoan or visiting the city for the first time, you'll discover something new about the city’s starring role in Hollywood. Iconic Film Locations Stand in the exact spots where legendary movie scenes were filmed, from Gotham City in The Dark Knight to the marble staircase in The Untouchables . What Movies Are Featured? From Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and The Untouchables to Fargo and South Side , our walking tours will immerse you in scenes from classic and modern Chicago-based movies and TV shows. Looking for a Private Tour? Want to enjoy our popular movie walking tours with just your group? Book a private version of any of our existing tours, and experience Chicago’s iconic film locations at your convenience. Book a Private or Group Tour

Incorporate a private or customized (bespoke) Chicago movie tour into your city visit, convention program, school curriculum, or senior outing. Pricing starts at $399. Private Tours Incorporate a private tour into your city visit, conference program, or senior outing. What Is a Private Tour? A private walking tour is a guided tour designed for individuals or small groups who prefer a more intimate and tailored experience. Unlike group tours that include multiple parties and follow a set itinerary, private tours offer flexibility in terms of timing, pace, and content. Private tours are ideal for families, convention and reunion attendees, school groups, film clubs, and senior outings. All tours may be booked privately, and we also provide customized options. Private tour pricing starts at $399. Private Tour FAQs Why Book a Private Tour? Personalization Immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of Chicago's movie history with a private tour! Explore the iconic film locations that fascinate you the most, at your own pace. Flexibility Can't find the perfect time for a public tour? No worries! With a private tour, you choose the date and time that suits your schedule best. Flexibility has never been so cinematic! Exclusive Attention Get the star treatment! Our private tour ensures you receive the guide's full attention, answering all your questions and sharing insider stories about Chicago's rich film history. Book Your Private Tour First Name* Last Name Email* Phone Tour of Interest* Preferred Tour Date* Secondary Preferred Date How many in your group?* Note: Most tours are designed for groups of up to 8 people. Which best describes your group?* Adults Family (All ages) School Group (K–12 students) College/University Group Corporate/Team Outing Senior Group Other Anything else we should know? (e.g., accessibility needs) Opt in to receive news about future tours and talks. Submit

Learn about Chicago Movie Tours' talks, in-person and virtual, held in surrounding Chicago schools, libraries, and related venues​​.​ ​ About Talks See what’s included, view past events, check pricing, and explore clients we’ve worked with. Chicago Movie Tours' talks—whether virtual, in-person, or hybrid—blend unique visuals , historical media , and expert insight to engage audiences, spark curiosity, and invite lively discussion. View Talks Read Reviews What's Included Learn what you get when you book a talk with Chicago Movie Tours. Expert Insight Commentary from a PhD, film historian, and guide Movie Clips Key scenes that highlight Chicago onscreen Newspapers Vintage clippings that add local context HD Video Crisp, original footage tailored to your talk Screenshots Still images that connect film to location Movie Fan Mags Old-school fan mags with Hollywood flair Archival Photos Historic images that enrich the narrative Interactive Maps Custom visuals that trace film sites and history Animated Slides Dynamic visuals that guide the experience Director's Chair Book Your Next Movie Talk 2025 Pricing Get a breakdown of speaking rates and what's covered. All talks run about 60 minutes, with unlimited time allotted afterward for Q&A. Virtual Talks $300 per talk. Bring Chicago’s film history to your audience—anywhere! Discounts available when booking multiple talks —ideal for monthly or quarterly programs. Reserve Your Virtual Talk In-Person Talks Starting at $300 plus travel. Travel fees from La Grange, IL , cover mileage, time, tolls, and parking. Most venues within 30 miles see an additional $50–$100; farther locations quoted individually. Book an In-Person Talk HOP ON BOARD! Join the thousands of Chicagoans who have rediscovered their city with Chicago Movie Tours. See Who’s Hosted Me Reviews of Talks Jeanne Jesernik Adult Services Librarian, La Grange Public Library average rating is 5 out of 5 Film Noir: Hollywood's Darkest Timeline Hosting Kelli Marshall’s Film Noir presentation for the public was an exceptionally entertaining and informative experience! Marshall’s ability to engage all audience members, novices and enthusiasts alike, is impressive! Book This Talk Deborah Adult Services Librarian, White Oak Library District average rating is 5 out of 5 Beyond the Blues Brothers Thank you for an absolutely wonderful webinar presentation. I learned so much about The Blues Brothers and about filmmaking. Book This Talk Nancy Clark Facebook Live average rating is 5 out of 5 Comedy in Chicago: The Marx Brothers and Bob Newhart I don't get to travel into the City, so I truly enjoy the views while Kelli shares lots of information. She's well organized and engaging. Thanks for doing these Chicago Tours! Book This Talk Jane Facebook Live, Lifelong Learner average rating is 5 out of 5 Chicago, Movies, and the 1918 Pandemic I'm always impressed at the amount of research you do to make these presentations possible. Book This Talk Bob Gassel Marx Bros. Council Podcast average rating is 5 out of 5 Comedy in Chicago: The Marx Brothers and Bob Newhart I want to commend you on a great job with [your virtual program] on The Marx Brothers and Chicago. Usually these things are riddled with errors and urban myths, but you did your homework! Book This Talk Frequent Guest Mount Prospect Public Library average rating is 5 out of 5 Gender in Hollywood: Women Loved the event, one of my faves yet! Really enjoyed the different concepts of women in Hollywood!! Book This Talk Show More Reviews

Chicago Movie Tours offers guided walking tours and movie history talks that inspire you to discover Chicago through film. Led by a PhD, our public and private tours and our in-person and virtual programs will always teach you something new about Chicago and movies, guaranteed. (Yes, guaranteed!) The Art of Ferris Bueller Take This Tour Chicago Film. Expert Insight. Hi, I'm KELLI , a PhD and the founder of Chicago Movie Tours. After years of teaching film, I launched Chicago Movie Tours to bring my expertise beyond the classroom and into the city streets. Drawing on my background as an educator and PhD, I lead tours and talks that reveal how Chicago’s onscreen locations connect to its culture and history. Whether you're a local or a visitor, with me, you'll always discover something new about the city—and its ties to film! Guest Reviews Tommy From Fairground to Film Set average rating is 5 out of 5 As knowledgeable as I thought I was about movies (especially those with Chicago connections), I learned so much more from my recent Chicago Movie Tours event with host Kelli. Even with things I kind of knew before, I was able to look at them in a new light. Engaging, detailed presentations and an eagerness to answer questions made this a top-notch experience. Highly recommended. Mitchell Szczepanczyk Hollywood on the Rails average rating is 5 out of 5 Kelli at Chicago Movie Tours gave a fantastic tour of Union Station for her tour "Hollywood on the Rails." She didn't just teach us about movies and TV shows, which were plentiful (I didn't realize that "The Sting" was filmed in part at Chicago Union Station); the tour also touched on points from a variety of fields, including architecture, art and design, history, technology, and of course, Chicago. It was a wonderful way to spend two hours, very informative and engaging, and very much worth your time, whether your interests lie in film, pop culture, history, architecture, or the Windy City! Sherman Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 Kelli was awesome! Clear instructions on where and when to meet, then prompt start of the tour. She clearly knows art so that was the one aspect I did not expect. It was wonderful to hear about the background of the artists to give some context to the painting/sculpture. Definitely more and better than I expected. Thank you. In the News

Explore guest reviews for Chicago Movie Tours! Read firsthand accounts from visitors who have discovered Chicago through Kelli's walking tours and movie talks. Reviews Curious about our guided tours and talks? See what others have to say! Filter by Event Leave Your Review Katherine Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 Great tour - very accessible even if you are just a casual fan of the film or of art. It was a fun new way to experience the Art Institute. Nov 22, 2025 Sherman Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 Kelli was awesome! Clear instructions on where and when to meet, then prompt start of the tour. She clearly knows art so that was the one aspect I did not expect. It was wonderful to hear about the background of the artists to give some context to the painting/sculpture. Definitely more and better than I expected. Thank you. Oct 4, 2025 Don From Fairground to Film Set average rating is 5 out of 5 A very interesting tour of the Midway area and early Chicago film history - especially the unforgettable Lorado Taft. Sep 21, 2025 Kristina Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 “Life moves pretty fast, if you don’t stop and take this tour with Kelli you could miss it!” We loved this tour and learned so much from Kelli. As big fans of Ferris Bueller it was even more amazing and as locals to Chicago it was a great way to enjoy the Art Institute from a different perspective. Nov 8, 2025 Carole Hollywood on the Rails average rating is 5 out of 5 I learned so much about the history of this landmark building and the many movies filmed here. Sep 26, 2025 Melissa Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 John Hughes film lovers unite. Great insight to why he included art in a film about teenagers. And what it meant to each character. Save Ferris! Aug 31, 2025 Rachel Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 We loved this tour—we could take it NINE TIMES! We had a fantastic time with Kelli seeing all the familiar art sites from the movie we know and love. Her breadth of knowledge about art and film was evident and she was so well prepared with video clips, quotes from various people involved with the movie, and efficient move through the building ending with the Chagall windows. Highly recommend for fans of the movie or newbies—a great quick move around the museum! Nov 8, 2025 Alan Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 I took Kelli's tour as part of an academic conference and I was impressed. She knew Chicago history and the Ferris Bueller film quite well. She made me stop and consider art works I would not have given a second glance. This tour was well worth the time and the next time I am in Chicago, I'll definitely take another Chicago Movie Tour. They are both knowledgeable and fun celebrating popular culture through movies. Sep 25, 2025 Fanni Art of Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 Kelli is a very knowledgeable, engaging, and fun guide. This tour is really well organized, paced, and generally enjoyable, it is such a great way to explore the film more through its art, all the while discovering the Chicago Art Institute!! 100% recommend. Aug 10, 2025 Show More Reviews

Read about Chicago Movie Tours in the local, national, and international press. Press Read about Chicago Movie Tours in the local, national, and international press. Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Chicago Tribune Nov 19, 2025 “In this instance, you’re discovering Chicago through a very specific part of a very specific film,” Marshall said. Read More NBC 5 Chicago May 4, 2025 Marshall gives tours at Union Station, and her customers always ask about that infamous scene [in The Untouchables]. “We know this scene was improv’d. It was not in the original script, which I find fascinating. It’s about nine and half minutes, so it’s lengthy.” Watch Now Patch Mar 1, 2025 "Through the use of original photographs, vintage newspaper articles, and a virtual reality Ferris Wheel experience, Kelli Marshall explores how women's fashion at the time had to balance both practicality and style." Read More NBC 5 Chicago Nov 21, 2024 "As 'Wicked' heads to theaters across the country, NBC Chicago’s Lexi Sutter takes a look at the city’s connection to 'The Wizard of Oz.'” Watch Now Chicago Symphony Orchestra Oct 23, 2024 "Chicago Movie Tours has offered a virtual walking tour (not currently available) that allows viewers wander (via HD video) through Oz Park, which pays tribute to the Tin Man, Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion, Dorothy and Toto." Read More Off Topic Podcast Aug 12, 2024 "In this episode I had the chance to discuss the rich history of movie making in Chicago with Kelli from Chicago Movie Tours. Check out the episode, go follow her on all of the social media sites, and, more importantly, book a tour and learn something about cinema in Chicago." — Tom Powell, Jr. Listen Now WBEZ Chicago Jun 17, 2024 “From Fairgrounds to Film Set: Chicago’s Midway, Movies, and the 1893 World’s Fair” starts from the Midway Plaisance, whose ties go back to the World’s Fair, then winds along the tree-lined streets of Hyde Park to showcase five stops tied to the movies." Read More SHRM Apr 9, 2024 "Fans of the movie “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” can even follow in the footsteps of Ferris and his pals through a special tour at the Art Institute of Chicago." Read More WGN Spotlight Chicago Nov 28, 2023 "You can walk in the footsteps of Ferris Bueller to see the Art Institute of Chicago through the eyes of the characters in the movie." Watch Now ABC 7 Chicago Oct 27, 2023 "The Brewster Building in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood catches the eye, inside and out." Watch Now Choose Chicago Oct 9, 2023 "Take a Chicago movie guided tour. Go 'on location' at various Chicago movie hotspots with Chicago Movie Tours. You’ll hit the highlights and even learn some unexpected history." Read More Chicago Mag Oct 9, 2023 "Step into Ferris’s shoes at the Art of Ferris Bueller tour, put on by Chicago Movie Tours." Read More Yahoo Jul 21, 2023 "Someone else [hey, that's us!] shared a photo of a mural painted on the side of a building in his birth city of Chicago..." Read More WBEZ Chicago Jun 22, 2023 "Build your own bucket list with our customizable guide to 250+ events and happenings around the city." Read More CNN Brazil Apr 2, 2023 "Those who go to Chicago will also be able to find special tours that involve famous locations and make movie lovers know the city from another perspective. One of them is Chicago Movie Tours." Read More The Points Guy Nov 18, 2022 "Scan the internet and you’ll find tour companies that have crafted '80s-movie-themed itineraries paying homage to the city’s famed landmarks and magical moments of movie lore: the demolition derby of "The Blues Brothers," the underbelly of Gotham City and, of course, the cultural touchstones and museums of "Ferris Bueller’s Day Off." — Caroline Lascom Read More Chicago Reader Oct 25, 2022 "If you’ve ever strolled through Woodlawn Cemetery in suburban Forest Park (which, given the season, might apply to some of you) you might have happened upon a section that features five elephant-shaped monuments...Learn more tonight from Chicago Movie Tours as they offer a free 20-minute online presentation on their Facebook page that will tell you more about the plots and their place in both Chicago and circus history." Read More Forgotten Hollywood Podcast Sep 19, 2022 "Doug Hess from Forgotten Hollywood discusses the impact Chicago has on the movies and Kelli's passion for Gene Kelly." Listen Now Washington Post Sep 16, 2022 "The director featured 40 works in that segment, notes Kelli Marshall, founder of Chicago Movie Tours. Marshall leads a 75-minute The Art of Ferris Bueller tour, which focuses on how the artwork relates to the characters and Hughes himself." Read More Chicago Reader Aug 23, 2022 "Chicago Movie Tours offers a free and entirely online look at the S.S. Eastland disaster, the 1915 shipwreck that resulted in the loss of over 800 passengers and crew after the ship rolled over onto its side while tied to a dock on the Chicago River. The tour company will offer a virtual presentation including insight from a cigar maker who lost family in the disaster, as well as recently unearthed film documenting the tragedy. It’s viewable on the Chicago Movie Tours Facebook page tonight at 7 PM." Read More Riverside-Brookfield Landmark Sep 21, 2021 "This presentation, which showcases Union Station and the special way it connects us all, is Part One of the library’s 'All Aboard!' series." — Riverside/Brookfield Landmark Read More Patch Jun 4, 2021 "Movie lovers can dive into three new classes by Chicago Movie Tours." Read More Chicago History Podcast May 20, 2021 "Tommy Henry from Chicago History Podcast and Kelli sat down with the screenwriter of Backdraft to discuss his experience with the fiery action thriller, shot in Chicago and released 30 years ago May 2021." Listen Now Moraine Valley Community College May 1, 2021 "Students who take Marshall's class will learn how to analyze specific subjects or film types. 'I always try to situate the material within the time frame it was created,' she says. 'After all, art, including cinema, isn’t created in a vacuum. There are reasons a film exists when it does, why it looks like it does, and why it affects who it does.'" Read More Chicago Reader Mar 5, 2021 "Chicago Movie Tours hosts a virtual tour of Union Station with an emphasis on its role in the movies." Read More Patch Feb 25, 2021 "On Tuesday, March 9, Kelli Marshall of Chicago Movie Tours leads a presentation about how Hollywood portrays women." Read More WBEZ Chicago Feb 8, 2021 "A local tour company is highlighting Chicago's historic connection to Mardi Gras." WBEZ Chicago Read More Patch Dec 29, 2020 "Explore the movie’s backstories, mix of Hollywood genres, and impact on Chicago-based film making. This program will be presented LIVE on Zoom by movie historian Kelli Marshall." Read More The UCSD Guardian Oct 4, 2020 "Watch tutorials by Chicago Movie Tours on how costumes, make up, and hair were put together for movies in the 1920s." Read More Riverside-Brookfield Landmark Jul 28, 2020 "Film scholar Kelli Marshall will explore the movie’s backstories, mix of Hollywood genres and impact on Chicago-based film-making." Read More Chicago Tribune May 28, 2020 "In April 2020, film scholar Kelli Marshall was ready to launch her new business, Chicago Movie Tours. 'I had a tour lined up for April 5 at Old Joliet Prison and it was actually sold out,' she said. 'But then the pandemic hit...'" Read More Washington Post "Could Ferris Bueller’s Day Off really be done?" "The director featured 40 works in that segment, notes Kelli Marshall, founder of Chicago Movie Tours. Marshall leads a 75-minute The Art of Ferris Bueller tour , which focuses on how the artwork relates to the characters and Hughes himself." Keep Reading

Meet Kelli Marshall, PhD, a public speaker, tour guide, and educator who helps visitors and residents discover Chicago through the movies. Meet Kelli KELLI MARSHALL is a public speaker, educator, tour guide, and small business owner who helps visitors and residents discover Chicago through film. Before starting Chicago Movie Tours , Kelli spent more than a decade as a professor of film and media studies. With hundreds of lectures, presentations, and invited talks under her belt, Kelli has honed her ability to present complex material in an engaging, straightforward manner. This skill—combined with memorable stories, humor, relaxed participation opportunities, and plenty of visual and aural aids—has earned Kelli several teaching awards and positive reviews . Kelli’s writings on film and television have been featured in books, peer-reviewed journals, and the popular press. Her expertise has also been highlighted on podcasts, local TV, and international radio programs, covering such topics as The Wizard of Oz , Singin’ in the Rain , Ferris Bueller’s Day Off , and Seinfeld . For fun, Kelli runs and walks local races, renovates her Chicago bungalow (c. 1924), wrangles her two rescue pups, and curates a Gene Kelly fansite. Kelli holds a PhD in Humanities, an M.A. in English, and a B.A. in English with minors in history and French.

Every Wednesday, join us in guessing the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. Visit our archive to play the ones you missed! One-Shot Wednesday On Wednesdays, guess the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. The Fugitive Much of The Fugitive (Andrew Davis, 1993) is filmed in and around Chicago. But this scene, the dam jump, was shot in North Carolina at the Cheoah Dam. In this short video, Harrison Ford and the stunt coordinator (I assume?) recount how the scene was conceived and shot. Welcome to One-Shot Wednesday! Think you’re a Chicago screen buff? On Wednesdays, we post one still from a movie or TV show filmed or set in the Windy City. Your mission? Guess the title! You've already seen this week’s image above. If you're feeling nostalgic, explore the full archive of past challenges to keep the fun rolling. Psst: you're on screenshot: 84 Access Archive

Every Wednesday, join us in guessing the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. Visit our archive to play the ones you missed! One-Shot Wednesday On Wednesdays, guess the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. Harry and Tonto Harry and Tonto (1974) follows widowed retiree Harry Coombes (Art Carney) and his faithful cat, Tonto, on a cross-country journey. As the pair travel from NYC to LA—stopping in Chicago—they encounter interesting characters and experiences that challenge Harry’s perspectives on life, love, and aging. In this medium shot, Tonto cleans himself on the back dashboard of Harry’s car. The 1970s Chicago skyline is visible in the background. Harry and Tonto filmed for 2.5 weeks in Chicago before cast and crew headed west to the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, and finally Los Angeles (Greeley Daily Tribune , 24 Oct 1973). During production, Art Carney grew quite fond of the cat who played Tonto, a 4-year-old stray off the streets of LA. “The cat’s in love with Art,” said his trainer, Betty Schumacher in a 1974 interview with the St. Louis Post-Dispatch . In fact, after Harry and Tonto wrapped, Carney tried to buy the cat actor. But alas, he was not for sale. ⚠️ Warning for sensitive viewers: the cat dies in the film. Welcome to One-Shot Wednesday! Think you’re a Chicago screen buff? On Wednesdays, we post one still from a movie or TV show filmed or set in the Windy City. Your mission? Guess the title! You've already seen this week’s image above. If you're feeling nostalgic, explore the full archive of past challenges to keep the fun rolling. Psst: you're on screenshot: 84 Access Archive

Private Tours Private Tours Private Tours Title Title Private Tours Incorporate a private tour into your city visit, convention program, or senior outing Available Tours Available most weekdays and weekends. Customized tours require two weeks’ notice. Request your preferred date and time! What Is a Private Tour? A guided tour designed for individuals or small groups who prefer a more intimate and tailored experience Ideal for families, convention and reunion attendees, school groups, film clubs, and senior outings. All tours may be booked privately, and Kelli also provides customized options. Private tour pricing starts at $399. Why Book a Private Tour? Exclusive Attention Get the star treatment! Our private tour ensures you receive the guide's full attention, answering all your questions and sharing insider stories about Chicago's rich film history. Flexibility Can't find the perfect time for a public tour? No worries! With a private tour, you choose the date and time that suits your schedule best. Flexibility has never been so cinematic! Personalization Immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of Chicago's movie history with a private tour! Explore the iconic film locations that fascinate you the most, at your own pace.