Chicago's Midway, Movies, and the 1893 World's Fair Walking Tour
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Join Chicago Movie Tours on the Midway, and discover the city's film history in an entirely new way!
On this leisurely 75-minute walking tour led by a Ph.D. in film, you'll visit 5 spots on the historic Midway Plaisance, once the heart of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. As you walk the now-grassy strip (0.5 mi.), you'll discover its many connections to early and modern cinema.
Guests must digitally sign a general waiver of liability either before or when they arrive. Guardians must sign waivers for children under the age of 18.
Note: This limited Chicago movie tour is available on Sunday mornings to give you the most accurate and unobstructed view of the Midway's monumental sculpture Fountain of Time.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
What To Expect
Lorado Taft's Midway Studios
At Midway Studios and Taft House, get acquainted with Lorado Taft: sculptor, teacher, writer, and early adopter of moving pictures. And in the presence of 'Recording Angel,' see Hollywood's first female action star in motion.
Midway Plaisance
On the Midway's green space, hear about the amusements arm of the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, including the first commercial movie theater!
What‘s Included
Demonstration of 19th-century moving picture devices
Expert tour guide commentary
Clips and photos that enhance the Midway's film history
Plenty of Instagram opportunities
Mini goodie bag!
Private transportation
Options
Public guided walking tour
Public guided walking tour
Reviews
5 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A very smart tour ! Tour guide was very informative and great communicating with people !
halleamelia,,May 6, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A very smart tour ! Tour guide was very informative and great communicating with people ! We were a few minutes late and she communicated well with us to make sure we caught up with the group!
Great movie knowledge and presentation
CindyM302,,Apr 1, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fun walk through Chicago learning about the city, movies, and history. Kelli had great visuals and kept us warm and dry in Feb with knowing how to navigate underground walkways.
An outstanding opportunity to learn and be entertained!
AddingtonThomas,,Jul 9, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I've actually done two walking tours so far - this one and the prison one, but this one surprised me by teaching me so much about the area and the people and events that had such an impact on Chicago.
Wonderful and Unique Tour
I2189ABellenb,,May 22, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Really enjoyed Chicago Movie Tour @ Midway! Kelli does a terrific job of bringing history to life with the Chicago movies as her back drop. Our family toured old Joliet prison with her yesterday and really enjoyed this one as well! Very well worth the time. Kelli knows her stuff and is a terrific host!
Chicago's Midway - Ready for Its Close-Up!
Robin Sez,,Oct 1, 2021
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour was very interesting and informative! I lived in Hyde Park for 2 years and had never seen most of the places Kelli took us to and talked about. Great linking of the sites to Chicago and to its role in the history and development of film. I enjoyed Kelli's virtual programming before and now look forward to attending more in-person experiences!
Related Experiences
Operated by Chicago Movie Tours