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Search our portfolio of 200+ past programs delivered at venues city- and nationwide. Browse our track record and find inspiration for your next Chicago film history event. Chicago Film History Speaker: Past Programs Every program I deliver is backed by over 15 years of academic research , peer-reviewed publications , and university teaching . Below, you can search a comprehensive history of my guest speaking engagements—featuring over 300 presentations for historical societies, libraries, and community organizations. To see current topics available for booking, visit Talks Catalog . Filter by Program(s) Filter by Venue Filter by Host Type Filter by Delivery Reset Filters We're Fixing a Glitch! A temporary website error is preventing our Film History Talks listings from displaying correctly. We're actively working on a solution and hope to have everything back online shortly. Thank you for your patience.

Discover Chicago’s cinematic history through expert-led walking tours and 50+ film history talks. Led by Kelli Marshall, Ph.D. Explore Chicago movie locations today. Ph.D.-Led Walking Tours and Presentations Book a Tour Step into the frame and explore Chicago’s iconic filming locations with expert-led, on-site storytelling. Book a Talk Bring the cinema to your group with 50+ scholarly and engaging presentations on film history and Chicago culture. Chicago Film. Expert Insight. Hi, I'm KELLI , a Ph.D. film scholar and the founder of Chicago Movie Tours & Talks. I offer expert-led Chicago movie tours and 50+ film history talks that explore how the city’s filming locations connect to its culture, history, and identity. From walking tours to engaging presentations for libraries, senior centers, and groups, each experience brings Chicago’s cinematic story to life. Chicago Movie Tours & Talks: By the Numbers 135 Years of Chicago film history covered 50 Unique movie history talks available 300 Programs and tours presented 15+ Years of teaching and research experience Reviews of Chicago Movie Tours & Talks Guests consistently rate both tours and programs 5 stars for depth, insight, and storytelling. 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. 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! 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. In the News Walking Tours Featured Watch Dr. Kelli Marshall break down Chicago film history on WGN Morning News. Film History Talks Featured Hear about the Windy City's links to The Wizard of Oz with Kelli on NBC 5 Chicago.

See what guests and librarians are saying about Chicago Movie Tours. Explore 5-star reviews for our walking tours and cinema history talks presented by Kelli Marshall, Ph.D. Chicago Movie Tours & Talks Reviews and Testimonials 5-Star Movie Experiences Led by a Film Historian Experience Chicago’s 135-year cinematic legacy through the eyes of a film historian. From the historic grounds of the Midway Plaisance to iconic filming locations throughout the Loop , our Ph.D.-led walking tours and presentations combine scholarly insight with engaging storytelling rarely found in traditional sightseeing tours. Below, explore verified reviews from libraries, cultural institutions, Chicago locals, tourists, and movie lovers who have joined Chicago Movie Tours & Talks for immersive experiences exploring the city’s deep connections to film history, architecture, public art, and popular culture. Browse Reviews by Category Chicago Walking Tours Film History Talks Private Walking Tours Reviews of Walking Tours average rating is 5 out of 5 Immersive experience I thoroughly enjoyed I sincerely recommend Kelli and the Chicago Movie Tours for group events. It was fascinating to hear all the information Kelli had gathered to present in an organized and yet comfortable way. As we toured the Art Institute of Chicago we were given tidbits of background information which led to more in-depth remarks, which prompted questions and discussion. It was an immersive experience I thoroughly enjoyed. Christine Art of Ferris Bueller Verified • ChicagoMovieTours.com May 19, 2026 private tour, walking tour, women's group, Art Institute of Chicago, Ferris Bueller average rating is 5 out of 5 Oz tour is a must-do An exceptional tour. I did the Oz and dark side of Hollywood tour and Kelli was smart, fun and a great guide. Must do, especially if you’re in the Lincoln park area. Jason The Wizard of Oz and Dark Hollywood in Chicago Reviewed on TripAdvisor May 3, 2026 silent film, gangster movies, public art, architecture, film comedy average rating is 5 out of 5 Kelli was very accommodating for our group. Very much recommend this tour for any fans of movies, art, and history, all in Chicago. Kelli was very accommodating for our group and really helped many of us get to know the city of Chicago better. Ferris Fan Art of Ferris Bueller Verified • ChicagoMovieTours.com March 10, 2026 John Hughes, film comedy, Art Institute of Chicago average rating is 5 out of 5 Learned so much! Kelli was great! She was knowledgeable and had plenty of information about the city, the movie, and the art. We learned so much on this tour. Highly recommend! Kris Art of Ferris Bueller Verified • ChicagoMovieTours.com February 2, 2026 John Hughes, film comedy, Art Institute of Chicago, behind the scenes average rating is 5 out of 5 Bueller Bueller Bueller... Bueller Bueller Bueller... Kelli was lovely and the tour was great. Can’t wait to go on another. Kelli was thoughtful and very knowledgeable about the film and Hughes’ inspiration for the art selected in the film. Caleb Art of Ferris Bueller Reviewed on TripAdvisor January 2, 2026 John Hughes, Ferris Bueller, behind the scenes, 1980s movies average rating is 5 out of 5 Save Ferris! 2026 is the 40th anniversary of the beloved film Ferris Bueller's Day Off. This tour is the perfect way to celebrate the film and the city of Chicago. We had so much fun and Kelli is amazing! Learn about John Hughes, the film, the art and how this all comes together in a memorable cinematic experience. Tip: Watch the movie again before the tour. Save Ferris! Pam Art of Ferris Bueller Verified • ChicagoMovieTours.com December 30, 2025 Art Institute of Chicago, Ferris Bueller, art in Chicago, John Hughes Load More Walking Tour Reviews Reviews of Film History Talks & Private Tours Now in Post-Production Reviews for film history talks and private tours are currently being refreshed and curated. Please check back soon for updated audience and host testimonials!

Browse Chicago Movie Tours' FAQs for answers to common questions about public and private walking tours, movie talks, and more. FAQs Get answers to common questions about tours, talks, bookings, and more. Public Tour FAQs Private Tour FAQs Talks FAQs FAQs: Public Tours How do I book a public walking tour? Book quickly by browsing a list of walking tours or our tour calendar. How long are your walking tours? Our walking tours last between 1.5–2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore iconic Chicago film locations and hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories. How much walking is involved? Walking tours cover half a mile to 1.5 miles at a leisurely pace, with plenty of stops for photos and storytelling. Look for specific mileage under each tour description. How many guests are on your walking tours? Most of Chicago Movie Tours' public and private walking tours are capped at approximately 8 guests. Kelli keeps groups small to ensure everyone can easily see the multimedia content she shares on a large iPad. Smaller groups also encourage participation and create a sense of community during the tour! If you have a larger group, Kelli is happy to split it into smaller ones to accommodate your needs. Exception: Provided the property and staffing are available, our tour Chicago and Movies in Old Joliet Prison may accommodate up to 25 people or more. What movies do your walking tours feature? Walking tours cover a range of films and TV series shot in Chicago, including The Dark Knight, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, The Untouchables, and many more. You will also explore lesser-known movies and cinematic connections to the city. For specifics, look for the "Movies/TV Highlighted" section under individual tour descriptions. Are your walking tours family friendly? All walking tours are designed to be enjoyable for all ages. However, some content may be more suitable for older children and adults. For example, our Wizard of Oz walking tour explores the children's story The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, but some content may not be appropriate for guests under age 13. Is there a minimum number of participants required for the tour to run? Yes, most of our public walking tours require a minimum of 4 participants. If the minimum isn’t met, we’ll notify you in advance to reschedule or offer a refund. Get more specifics on our low attendance policy in Tour Terms and Conditions. Do you offer private walking tours? Absolutely! Kelli offers private versions of all walking tours, provided properties and dates are available. She also offers bespoke tours that allow you to customize the schedule and even focus on specific movies or locations. Please contact Kelli at least 2 weeks prior to your preferred tour date for a bespoke tour. Read more about Private Tours. Do you offer any virtual tours? Yes, Kelli offers virtual tours, many free. Learn more about them here. What happens if it rains or snows? Walking tours run rain, shine—or snow (it is Chicago after all)! In the case of extreme weather, Kelli will contact you to discuss rescheduling or other options. Are your tours wheelchair accessible? Kelli strives to make tours as accessible as possible. However, some locations we visit are in or around historic buildings that may not have fully accessible pathways. Please contact Kelli in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs, or look under Tour Specifics > Accessibility under individual tour descriptions for the latest information about accessibility. What is your cancellation policy? You may cancel or amend your reservation 48 hours or more before the tour departs. Cancellations received within 48 hours of tour departure—along with late arrivals and no-shows after a tour departs—are not eligible for refunds. Read more about cancelling or changing reservations on Tour Terms and Conditions. Can I take photos on the tour? Yes! Please take photos—and capture your favorite movie locations along the way. However, video and audio recording any of our tours is prohibited. Can I gift a walking tour to someone? Yes! We offer gift cards for our walking tours, which make a great present for movie lovers or anyone looking to explore Chicago. Why are museum tickets not included in your Ferris Bueller walking tour? Admission to the Art Institute of Chicago is not included in The Art of Ferris Bueller ticket price for three reasons: Direct Admission Pricing: The Art Institute of Chicago sets its own admission prices that can vary depending on factors such as special exhibitions and events. By keeping admission separate, we ensure you pay the most current rate directly to the museum, allowing for flexibility based on your visit. Membership Discounts: Many of our tour guests may have museum memberships or reciprocal admission privileges that provide discounts or free entry. By separating our tour fee from museum admission, we respect those benefits and allow our guests to take advantage of their memberships. Planning Flexibility: This approach allows you to plan your visit according to your preferences. You can arrive early, explore the museum at your own pace before the tour starts, or extend your visit afterward to enjoy additional exhibits. Should I tip the tour guide? While tipping is never expected, it’s always appreciated! If you enjoyed the tour and feel your guide provided a memorable experience, feel free to tip as a gesture of thanks. Our guide invests significant time in researching and delivering high-quality tours to ensure you have a unique and insightful experience. Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation! FAQs: Private Tours Do you offer private walking tours? Yes! All of Chicago Movie Tours' walking tours are available for private tours, provided properties and dates are available. Looking for a customized tour? Please contact Kelli. What is the difference between a private and a customized or bespoke tour? The main difference between a private tour (of our existing walking tours) and a private bespoke tour is the level of customization. Private tours of our existing walking tours follow a set route and itinerary. These tours are ideal for travelers who prefer the convenience of a curated experience without the need for extensive customization. Private tours offer the exclusivity of a private group while still exploring popular attractions or themes. Customized or bespoke tours allow travelers to design a unique itinerary from scratch. A private bespoke tour is a fully customized and tailor-made experience crafted according to your specific interests, preferences, and requirements. Private bespoke tours are ideal for travelers seeking a truly one-of-a-kind and immersive experience tailored precisely to their interests and preferences! Please contact Kelli at least 2 weeks prior to your preferred tour date for a bespoke tour. How many guests are allowed on private tours? Private tours are intended for parties of 8 people or fewer. These options work nicely for families and small social groups. Exception: Provided the property and staffing are available, our tour Chicago and Movies in Old Joliet Prison may accommodate up to 25 people or more. Do your private tours include a guide? Absolutely! All private (and customized) Chicago movie tours include a knowledgeable guide who accompanies your group throughout the experience. In the case of our movie-themed walking tours in Chicago, your guide is Kelli, a seasoned expert with a teaching background and a Ph.D. focused on film studies. Kelli's extensive academic background and passion for cinema ensure that you'll receive in-depth insights into the movies filmed in Chicago, their historical context, and the behind-the-scenes stories that bring them to life. Do you offer private tours by bus, van, or car? No, we only offer walking tours at this time. How much do private tours cost? Private tour pricing starts at $399. Why are museum tickets not included in your Ferris Bueller tour? Admission to the Art Institute of Chicago is not included in The Art of Ferris Bueller ticket price for three reasons: Direct Admission Pricing: The Art Institute of Chicago sets its own admission prices that can vary depending on factors such as special exhibitions and events. By keeping admission separate, we ensure you pay the most current rate directly to the museum, allowing for flexibility based on your visit. Membership Discounts: Many of our tour guests may have museum memberships or reciprocal admission privileges that provide discounts or free entry. By separating our tour fee from museum admission, we respect those benefits and allow our guests to take advantage of their memberships. Planning Flexibility: This approach allows you to plan your visit according to your preferences. You can arrive early, explore the museum at your own pace before the tour starts, or extend your visit afterward to enjoy additional exhibits. How do I book a private tour? Book your private or custom walking tour by completing this short form or contacting Kelli. Should I tip the tour guide? While tipping is never expected, it’s always appreciated! If you enjoyed the tour and feel your guide provided a memorable experience, feel free to tip as a gesture of thanks. Our guide invests significant time in researching and delivering high-quality tours to ensure you have a unique and insightful experience. Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation! Are your private tours wheelchair accessible? Kelli strives to make tours as accessible as possible. However, some locations we visit are in or around historic buildings that may not have fully accessible pathways. Please contact Kelli in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs, or look under Tour Specifics > Accessibility under individual tour descriptions for the latest information about accessibility. FAQs: Talks What types of talks do you offer? Chicago Movie Tours offers a range of in-person and online talks, with most centered on Chicago’s rich film history. Kelli also provides general programs on topics like the representation of gender in Hollywood, film noir, and classic Christmas movies. Each talk is designed to be engaging, educational, and visually immersive! How long do your talks last? Most talks last 1 hour, depending on the content and audience engagement. Longer programs, film series, and deep dives into specific topics are also available upon request. Can I preview a talk before booking? Yes! Watch excerpts from full-length talks here to get a feel for how they run and look. How do I book a talk? You can book by reaching out to Kelli through this Request a Talk form. She will work with you to schedule the program and discuss any specific requests you might have. Who are your talks for? Chicago Movie Tours' talks reach a wide range of audiences, including libraries, schools, nonprofits, social clubs, corporate groups, and film enthusiasts. Explore Kelli's past and current talks and see whom she's worked with. Are the talks interactive? Yes, Kelli purposely designs most talks to be engaging and interactive. Participants often ask questions and discuss their own histories with the films and locations. Additionally, some programs include polls and trivia! How do your talks incorporate HD footage? Many programs include high-definition video footage of Chicago movie locations, placing viewers right where the filming (or historical events) happened. Whether in-person or online, this footage enhances the experience by visually transporting you to the iconic sites from your favorite films. What equipment is required for in-person talks? For in-person programs, Kelli creates and projects all content using her MacBook Pro, with video footage and other media embedded in Apple programs. A projector, large screen, HDMI cable, and audio equipment are required at the venue. Kelli will bring her laptop and adapters to ensure compatibility with your setup. If your venue doesn’t have the necessary equipment, we'll work together to find a solution! How much do talks cost? For 2026, virtual talks are $300, and in-person talks start at $400. Get specifics on pricing. Can I customize a talk for my group? At this time, talks are presented as described, with full program details shared in advance.

Book expert Chicago movie history talks by a Ph.D. and film historian. Virtual or in-person, these 60-minute presentations feature HD location video, rare clips, and interactive maps. Chicago Movie History Talks See what’s included, view past events, check pricing, and explore clients we’ve worked with. Chicago Movie Tours' talks—whether virtual or in person—blend unique visuals , historical media , and expert insight to engage audiences, spark curiosity, and invite discussion. Download 2026 Featured Talks Browse All Talks What's Included Learn what you get when you book a talk with Chicago Movie Tours. Ph.D. Expertise Commentary by Kelli , Ph.D., film historian, and guide Curated Clips Key scenes that highlight Chicago onscreen Newspapers Vintage clippings that add local context Original HD Video Crisp, unique location 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 icon for booking a Chicago movie history presentation Book Your Next Movie Talk 2026 Pricing Talks are available virtually or in person, and they 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! Host a Virtual Talk In-Person Talks $400 per talk Locations over 25 mi. from La Grange, IL, are quoted separately. View map . Schedule In Person 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 Show More Reviews

Want a preview of Chicago Movie Tours' talks? Watch an excerpt from a recorded session. Watch a Talk Want a preview? Watch an excerpt from a recorded session. Play Video Play Video 03:18 Play Video Play Video 02:39 Play Video Play Video 03:19 Play Video Play Video 04:15 Director's Chair Book Your Next Movie Talk

Browse upcoming talks and see where Kelli from Chicago Movie Tours will speak publicly next—online and in person. Upcoming Talks See where Kelli will be speaking next—online and in person. In-Person Talks Virtual Tours and Talks In-Person Talks Jul 14, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Private: Chicago's First Ferris Wheel in Film / Learn more Jul 14, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Anshe Emet Synagogue, 3751 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60613, USA Travel back to the Chicago World's Fair of 1893 and experience the first Ferris wheel through film and virtual reality Jul 22, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM CDT Women and Early Cinema in Chicago: Untold Stories Behind the Silent Screen / Register Jul 22, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM CDT White Oak Library District: Lockport Bra, 121 E 8th St, Lockport, IL 60441, USA Explore hidden stories of women who shaped early Chicago cinema, with HD footage of key locations where they lived and worked Aug 06, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM The Breakfast Club: Chicago, Music, and a Generation Defined / Register Aug 06, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Naperville Public Library - 95th Street, 3015 Cedar Glade Dr, Naperville, IL 60564, USA Discover how "The Breakfast Club" defined a generation through its architecture, music, and ties to Chicago Aug 17, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM The Breakfast Club: Chicago, Music, and a Generation Defined / Register Aug 17, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM White Oak Library District: Crest Hill B, 20670 City Center Blvd, Crest Hill, IL 60403, USA Discover how "The Breakfast Club" defined a generation through its architecture, music, and ties to Chicago Registration links to dates in the far future may not yet be available. Check back, or subscribe to be notified . Virtual Tours and Talks Jun 04, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CDT From Ferris to the Frontlines: Chicago's Art Institute and Grant Park in the Movies / Register Jun 04, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CDT (Zoom) CJE Senior Life From Ferris Bueller to political drama, see the Art Institute of Chicago and Grant Park through the lens of film Jul 28, 2026, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CDT Still Waters, Sudden Death: Chicago’s Deadliest Disaster Onscreen / Register Jul 28, 2026, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM CDT Winnetka-Northfield Library (Zoom) Examine the SS Eastland tragedy through its screen portrayals—from newsreels and documentaries to home movies and a Disney show Registration links to dates in the far future may not yet be available. Check back, or subscribe to be notified .

Featured film history expert for WGN, NBC 5, and The Washington Post. Dr. Kelli Marshall provides expert insight on Chicago’s cinematic legacy. Media inquiries welcome. Chicago Movie Tours in the News With a Ph.D. and more than 15 years in higher education, Dr. Kelli Marshall specializes in the intersection of film history, art, and Chicago culture. She has presented over 200 programs at libraries, nonprofits, and senior centers, bridging the gap between scholarly research and public storytelling. Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Official Chicago Cubs Website May 27, 2026 "Chicago Movie Tours offer[s] walking tours of filming locations across the city. Themed options include The Art of Ferris Bueller, Dark Hollywood in Chicago, and general movie highlights." Read More Chicago Film Experience Feb 17, 2026 Chicago film historian Donte Diesel Williams talks with film professor Dr. Kelli Marshall of Chicago Movie Tours about romantic comedies made in Chicago. Watch Now Block Club Chicago Jan 8, 2026 Lovers of the classic 1986 Chicago film “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” can get an exclusive tour at the Art Institute that guides guests through the iconic art featured in the film. Read More WGN Morning News Dec 17, 2025 Kelli Marshall takes guests through the Art Institute of Chicago on a tour titled “The Art of Ferris Bueller”—it looks at the same artworks as Ferris and his friends in the 1986 teen comedy “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” Watch Now 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

Experience Chicago through a cinematic lens. Join Kelli Marshall, Ph.D., for expert-led Chicago movie walking tours. Explore filming locations for Ferris Bueller, The Dark Knight, and more. Book your scholar-guided tour today! Expert-Led Movie Walking Tours in Chicago Pick Your Tour The first three tours below are currently running to the public . (The other three may resume to the public in summer or fall 2026.) The Art of Ferris Bueller From Fairground to Film Set Wizard of Oz in Chicago Movies and TV in Union Station Chicago and Movies Underground Chicago and Movies in Prison Public Tours FAQs Why Choose These Chicago Walking Tours? Led by a Film Expert Unlike other tours in Chicago, ours are led by an film expert with a Ph.D. 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? Our Chicago walking tours feature iconic locations from The Dark Knight , Ferris Bueller's Day Off , The Untouchables , and more. 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

Every Wednesday, guess the Chicago-based movie or television show from one screenshot. Come back each week to see if you can guess the shot, or 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. Which title is correct? The Boondock Saints The Fugitive St. Patrick: The Irish Legend Leprechaun 3 Answer & Trivia Answer opens in new tab Previous Archive Next

FAQs for Talks Get answers about topics, bookings, tech requirements, and more. Events Past / Filter by Title Lectures on Tap – The Blues Brothers: Dissecting a 1980 Chicago Classic Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at 11:30:00 PM UTC 1893 World’s Fair & Filming Locations: Chicago Midway Walking Tour Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 3:30:00 PM UTC Art of the Diner: Nighthawks in Film, History, and Chicago Culture Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 6:00:00 PM UTC The Art of Ferris Bueller Sunday, May 10, 2026 at 4:30:00 PM UTC How Do Movies Guide Your Eyes? Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at 11:30:00 PM UTC The Wizard of Oz and Dark Hollywood in Chicago Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 3:30:00 PM UTC Inside Gene Kelly's House Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 11:30:00 PM UTC The Art of Ferris Bueller Sunday, April 19, 2026 at 4:30:00 PM UTC From Ferris to the Frontlines: Chicago's Art Institute and Grant Park in the Movies Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 12:00:00 AM UTC On the Run in Chicago: Behind the Scenes of The Fugitive Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 6:00:00 PM UTC