The Art of Ferris Bueller
Experience the artwork and hear the backstories that inspired one of the most famous scenes in Chicago-based cinema.
About Tour
In Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, three suburban teenagers skip school, drive into Chicago, and explore well-known sites like Sears Tower, Wrigley Field, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
The scene that takes place inside the Art Institute of Chicago lasts only 2 minutes. But it is one of Ferris Bueller’s most memorable, in part, because it:
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Showcases a whopping 40 pieces of art
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Distinguishes the movie from other hedonistic teen comedies of the time
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Speaks volumes about the film's characters and its director, John Hughes, even though it contains no dialogue
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Represents a beautiful tribute to the power of art
Are you ready to experience firsthand the artwork and hear behind-the-scenes stories that inspired one of the most famous scenes in Chicago-based cinema?
*This tour does not include admission to the Art Institute of Chicago.
PRICE
$35/person*
DURATION
Approx. 75 min.
CAPACITY
Approx. 10 guests
DISTANCE
Approx. 1 mi.
"With Ferris Bueller's Day Off, I really wanted to capture as much of Chicago as I could. Not just in the architecture and landscape, but the spirit."
— John Hughes, director
Tour Itinerary
Quick History
You'll start with a 5-minute history of the Art Institute of Chicago, including the building's connections to the 1893 World's Fair and the 1909 Plan of Chicago, the latter of which we'll see on view.
Ferris Bueller 101
Then, you'll spend the rest of your tour moving in and out of galleries, looking at the artwork featured in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and hearing facts, stories, quotes, and theories about the 1986 teen comedy.
Show Me the Art
In total, you'll visit 3 floors of the museum, see 16 pieces of art shown in Ferris Bueller's Day Off, and leave with an appreciation of the works, their relationship to characters, and their placement in the camera's frame.
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What's Included
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Expert tour guide commentary
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Visual and audio media to enhance your experience
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Plenty of Instagram opportunities
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Mini goodie bag! 🤍
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Discount off your next Chicago Movie Tour
Tour Specifics
Start/End Points
The tour starts in Griffin Court (Modern Wing) by the staircase/chairs. Please arrive about 10 min. before the tour begins.
COVID-19 Guidelines
Masks are currently not required in the Art Institute, but guests who want to wear them are welcome to do so.
Also, proof of vaccination is no longer required to visit.
Accessibility
Elevators are located throughout the museum for access to all levels.
Cancellation and Refunds
You may cancel or amend your reservation 48 hours or more before the tour departs. Read more Tour Terms and Conditions.
Other Questions?
Please contact us!
Museum Admission
This tour does not include the price of admission to the Art Institute.
For ticket prices, please refer to the museum's ticketing chart. Admission to the Art Institute is free for members and children under 14.
Parking/Transportation
By Car: The Millennium Garages are located underground, below the parks adjacent to the museum.
Public Transit: The Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple “L” train lines all stop above ground at Adams/Wabash, one block west of the museum. The Red and Blue lines stop underground at Monroe, just a few blocks away.
Photography
Non-flash photography is permitted in all permanent galleries. Tripods, selfie sticks, and video are not permitted.
Restrooms
Restrooms are located throughout the museum on each level.
Waivers
Guests must initial a digital general waiver of liability with Chicago Movie Tours when they book.
What to Bring
The museum's checkrooms are closed, so guests are encouraged to pack lightly. Large bags and backpacks are not allowed in galleries.
Water bottles are allowed, but they must be stowed in a bag when guests are in spaces that house art.
Children
Guests ages 10 and up can attend.
Private Tours
Yes! This tour may be booked as a private tour. Please contact us for more specifics.