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Hollywood on the Rails: Movies and TV in Chicago's Union Station

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About

90 min

0.5 mi.

10 guests

$39.99

Stroll through Chicago's Union Station and discover its connections to movies and TV

Step into the glamour of Hollywood on our 90-minute guided walking tour of the iconic building and marvel of modern transportation that is Chicago's Union Station!


Led by a knowledgeable Ph.D. guide, Hollywood on the Rails: Movies and TV in Chicago's Union Station unveils fascinating connections between Chicago's 100-year-old train station and the silver screen. 


From The Untouchables and My Best Friend's Wedding to Fargo (FX) and Run (Max), Chicago's Union Station has served as a backdrop for countless narratives of drama, suspense, and romance. Retrace your favorite's stars' footsteps as you uncover secrets behind their movies and television series!


You'll also delve into stories that even most Chicagoans don't know about Union Station's Hollywood history. Hear about the building's ties to a glamorous dining haunt of celebrities past and a 1930s magazine contest, where dreams came true for lucky movie fans aboard the rails.


And fear not, history buffs. Hollywood on the Rails: Movies and TV in Chicago's Union Station also uncovers Union Station's own story. From its awe-inspiring architectural design to its pivotal role in shaping Chicago's identity, there's a wealth of tales waiting to be discovered within these marble halls. 


Finally, exclusive to this Union Station tour, you will gain access to areas not available to the public. NOTE: If private events are scheduled during our tour time, these spaces may not be available.


So, whether you're a film enthusiast, history buff, or simply curious to explore one of Chicago's most iconic landmarks, join us for a leisurely (mostly indoor) walking tour filled with lights, camera, and action! 

Movies/TV Highlighted

  • The Killer (2024)

  • Fargo (2020, FX)

  • Run (2020, HBO Max)

  • Man of Steel (2013)

  • Public Enemies (2009)

  • Flags of Our Fathers (2006)

  • Derailed (2005)

  • My Best Friend's Wedding (1997)

  • Love Jones (1997)

  • The Untouchables (1987)

  • The Sting (1973)

  • Movie stars: Judy Garland, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Errol Flynn

Public Tour Dates

Friday

Nov 15, 2024

4:00 PM

Friday

Dec 13, 2024

4:00 PM

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 so we can accommodate you.

Tour Specifics

Start/End Points

The tour starts just outside Chicago Union Station's Jackson St. entrance, next to Corner Bakery. The tour ends at 225 S Canal St.


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

By Car: Use Union Station's driving directions. Public Transit: Use the CTA's Plan-a-Trip guide.


Accessibility

Guests will need to climb up/down 2 sets of stairs. Escalators and elevators are available in some areas. 


Restrooms

Public restrooms are available inside the head house and concourse.


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.

What's Included

  • 90-minute guided walking tour of Chicago's Union Station

  • Guided access inside locations where movies and TV series have filmed 

  • Exclusive access to spaces typically off-limits to the public

  • Tour guide commentary from a passionate Ph.D.

  • Small group to generate engagement and foster a personalized tour

  • Insights into Union Station's Hollywood history, architectural design, and historical significance

  • Visual and audio media to enhance your tour experience

  • Plenty of Instagram opportunities 

  • Mini (movie-themed) goodie bags! 💙

Reviews

Lily

Hollywood on the Rails

average rating is 5 out of 5
This is one of the best tours I’ve ever been on! Some friends and I took the tour of Union Station film history and loved every second of it! I’ll definitely be going on another tour in the future :)

September 11, 2024

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