Returns Spring 2024
About
Uncover Hollywood's sinister past in Chicago through The Wizard of Oz, "cocaine movies," and gangsters
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 us down a destructive path closely tied to Hollywood.
Join Chicago Movie Tours in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood for a 90-minute guided outdoor walking tour on the darker side of the silver screen.
Itinerary
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 will leave you shocked.
Your adventure continues as you stroll down a tree-lined street, surrounded by houses with a rich history that whispers secrets of Hollywood's scandalous silent era. Uncover the intriguing connections to "cocaine comedies" as you explore these architectural gems with our expert tour guide.
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. It's a story that will captivate you, leaving you with a deeper understanding of the city's enthralling—and disturbing—past.
Don't miss your chance to be part of this adventure in Chicago. Book your spot now!
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 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.
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.
Movies/TV Highlighted
Public Enemies (2009)
High Fidelity (2000)
The Lady in Red (1979)
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)
Returns Spring 2024
What's Included
Expert tour guide commentary, including little-known facts and stories from Hollywood's and Chicago's pasts
Visual and audio media to enhance your experience
Plenty of Instagram opportunities
Mini goodie bags!
Reviews
Todd Miller
November 11, 2023
Krista
October 15, 2023
Sarah
November 1, 2023
Robert Bender
October 15, 2023
Kathy
October 29, 2023
