Categories: Chicago Gangsters

Chicago Gangsters: Tours

Author: Molly Ryan

Untouchable Tours

One of the best ways to learn more involved details about the colorful lives of the 1920s Chicago gangsters is to rely on the experts: Untouchable Tours. For $27 you will be led all around the city to old gangster hangouts and shootouts. Upon entry to the black bus (modeled after Capone's black, bullet-proof Cadillac), you will be greeted by well-informed guides dressed in zoot suits, of course. Tap your fingers to the hip blues songs of the 1920s and 1930s while learning about everything from Deanie O'Bannion's passion for flowers to Al Capone's various nicknames. During the drive through many of Chicago's eclectic neighborhoods form the North to the South side, the guides point out and tell the stories of the famous speakeasies, shootouts, and other hot spots frequented by gangsters. Although many of these sights have been remodeled, it is still possible to see that the gangsters have permanently left their mark around Chicago. The crowd-pleasing and joke-cracking guides keep the bus captivated and the two-hour tour flies by.

The bus tour is conveniently located at the corner of Clark Street and Ohio Street right outside of the two-story Rock N' Roll McDonalds. Unfortunately, there is no sign for the bus, but it pulls up about 20 minutes before the scheduled tour. The black bus decorated with fake gunshots and white lettering is unmistakable. Although it is suggested to make a reservation by calling the Untouchable Tours office, there are usually a few free seats for walk-ons. If you happen to miss the bus or plan on having another adventure before or after the tour, you can shop like a high-class gangster on Magnificent Mile, which is mere steps away from the drop-off location. There are also a slew of esteemed restaurants and some staple chains such as the Hard Rock Cafe and the Rainforest Cafe lining the streets up to Magnificent Mile.

Coach American: Chicago Gangster Murder Mystery Tour

Hop on a scenic bus tour of Chicago until the Untouchables raid the vehicle, start a gun fight, and all of a sudden your group of employees, friends, or family is taken back to the days of a full-on gangster fight straight out of the 1920’s. From this point on, travel through historic gangster sites throughout the city, and arrive at one of the gangster’s favorite restaurants before the whole group becomes involved in a murder mystery. Help find clues to solve the mystery of how a member of your group was sent to sleep with the fishes—you could even be the murderer!

Murder Mystery Dinner Parties

Who would have thought that a murder mystery could be fun? At Murder Mystery Dinner Parties, a cast of professional actors set up an interactive 1920’s gangster-themed mystery for the audience to solve. An original option for corporate events, parties, or any group occasion, the scene of the murder can take place anywhere around Chicago from Portillo’s to the Signature Room at the John Hancock Building and dozens of other restaurants. All members of the party are involved in the mystery, and any one of them could be a victim or the killer! Upon entry to “Oh Henry’s Speakeasy and Brothel” all guests are treated to a filling dinner (with “illegal” drinks), a flapper dance contest, a round at the roulette and blackjack tables, authentic 1920’s music, and the thrilling adventure on the race to solve the mystery. Surprises spring up around every corner and it is inevitable that the whole party gets into character while the speakeasy fills up with gangsters and loose gals!

Murders R Us

Experience a professionally simulated murder mystery during a Murder R Us performance. Although a specialty “gangster” themed murder is not usually performed by the world-traveling mystery troupe, the performers are open to any suggestions for their act. Corporations, organizations, and parties are all fond of these interactive murder, jewel, or kidnapping mysteries that are specially crafted for each group.