Private and Luxury

Private and luxury tours in Illinois cover more than half of all available experiences, with 330 options out of 620. These tours are designed for travelers who want a more personalized, in-depth look at the state's highlights—often with exclusive access, skip-the-line entry, or a guide focused just on your group.

Most people booking these tours are looking for something beyond the standard group outing: a deep dive into Chicago's art scene, a private boat on Lake Michigan, or a food tour with a local expert. With 90% of these tours rated 4 stars or higher, satisfaction is high, and the variety means there's something for every interest and budget.

Private and luxury tours are the largest category in Illinois, making up 53% of everything on offer. With 330 tours to choose from, this is where you’ll find the broadest range of experiences—from walking tours and museum visits to private sailing and food adventures.

Prices start at $35 and reach over $500 for the most exclusive options. The median price is $63, matching the typical cost for most other categories like walking, cultural, and food tours. However, private and luxury tours include both affordable small-group walks and high-end private outings, so the range is wider than in other categories.

Compared to bus tours (median $125), private and luxury options can be a better value for small groups or those seeking flexibility. Most travelers pay between $35 and $120 per person, but private charters, like sailing, can run much higher.

Travelers who want a tailored experience or privacy will find plenty to choose from. Walking tours like the Chicago Murder Mystery Tour or the Workers Cottages of Oldtown Triangle offer engaging stories and access to neighborhoods you might miss on your own, with prices starting at $35. For art lovers, skip-the-line guided tours of the Art Institute of Chicago ($90) consistently earn near-perfect ratings and are praised for knowledgeable guides who bring the collection to life.

If you want to see the city from the water, the Small-Group Sightseeing Boat Tour ($89) and Private Sailing on Lake Michigan (from $567 per boat) both deliver memorable views, but the sailing option is best for groups who want the boat to themselves and are willing to pay a premium.

Food-focused travelers can opt for the Private Chicago Food Tour ($225), which includes deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and more, guided by a local expert. This is one of the pricier per-person options but stands out for those who want a deep dive into Chicago’s culinary scene.

While 90% of tours in this category are rated 4 stars or better, some disappointments do come up. On walking tours, a few reviewers mention guides who seemed inexperienced or inattentive, and some felt that parts of the route were less interesting or padded for time. On museum tours, a handful of guests expected more for the price or more official verification. These complaints are the exception rather than the rule, but if you have specific expectations, check recent reviews before booking.