Returns Spring 2024
About
Join the only walking tour that explores the Midway's 130-year history with movies!
Take a leisurely stroll down Chicago's historic tree-lined Midway, site of the famed World's Fair of 1893! On our 0.5-mile route, you'll hear about the first cinema, the first female action star, and a murderous cinematographer. (Yes, murderous!) You'll also experience firsthand how vintage moving picture devices enthralled early audiences.
Whaddya waiting for? Join the only tour in Chicago that explores the Midway's century-long relationship to the movies!
Itinerary
On this hour-long walking tour, you'll visit 5 spots on the Midway (as well as part of University of Chicago's campus) as you hear about their history and connections to early cinema and modern movies:
Midway Studios
Taft House
Recording Angel
the Midway's green space
Fountain of Time
Private Tours
Yes, you may book this tour as a private or group tour!
The private tour price listed below is a flat fee for up to 10 guests. If you have more than 10 in your party, please contact us so we can accommodate you.
Tour Specifics
Start/End Points
The tour starts at 6016 S. Ingleside Ave, Chicago, IL. Please arrive at least 10 min. before the tour begins. The tour ends at 6000 S. Cottage Grove Ave.
Waivers
Guests must initial a digital general waiver of liability with Chicago Movie Tours when they book.
Parking/Transportation
If available, free parking spots run along the Midway, Best Drive, and Payne Drive. For public transit: the Green Line runs from Chicago's Loop to S. Cottage Grove. Our starting point is about a 10-minute walk from the Cottage Grove "L" station.
Accessibility
All five locations we visit have sidewalks, crosswalks, and ramps. The road we cross to visit Fountain of Time does not have a crosswalk designated for pedestrians.
What to Bring
Please wear weather-appropriate clothing. Tours run rain or shine.
Restrooms
A Jewel-Osco grocery store with a public restroom is near the end of our tour route. A restroom may also be available in Logan Center for the Arts, next to Midway Studios.
Children
Guests ages 10 and up can attend.
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.
Movies/TV Highlighted
Flatliners (1990)
The Package (1989)
Sunset Boulevard (1950)
Chicago the Beautiful (1948)
Sue (1915)
The Hazards of Helen (1914-1917)
The Horse in Motion (1880)
Returns Spring 2024
What's Included
Expert tour guide commentary
Clips and vintage photos that enhance the Midway's film history
Demonstration of 19th-century moving picture devices
Plenty of Instagram opportunities
Free parking
Mini goodie bag!
Reviews
Ellen B
May 22, 2022
Tommy
October 1, 2021
Robert
November 1, 2021
Sarah Braden
September 9, 2021
Robin S
October 1, 2021
