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The 9 best crime tours of Chicago

Explore the seedy underbelly of Chicago on these fascinating crime tours

Chicago is well known for its towering architecture, amazing restaurants  and beautiful beaches , but the city also has a notorious history of Prohibition-era organized crime and violence. Some of Chicago’s most beautiful streets have dark pasts, and you can explore the oftentimes grisly history on a Chicago crime tour. Guides unearth the city’s darkest stories, and some of them even make stops at local restaurants and bars to help set the scene. While the tours may be a bit eerie, some can be experienced on your own schedule, whether in-person or virtually. Experience Chicago's history hidden in plain sight on the best Chicago crime tours.

RECOMMENDED: Check out the full guide to the best Chicago tours

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our   affiliate   guidelines .

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Best Chicago crime tours

1.  Chicago crime and mob tour

Follow in the footsteps of infamous gangsters like charming bank robber John Dillinger and Polish mobster Hymie Weiss on this bus tour. You’ll hear stories about the who’s who of Chicago organized crime, drive by a few murder locations and spot the historic courthouse where many criminals were thrown in the clink. 

Time Out tip:  Brush up on your crime knowledge for the post-tour quiz. 

2.  Untouchable Tours' original gangster tour

For more than 30 years, Untouchable Tours has been driving tourists back and forth across the city to see Chicago's more unconventional sights, including the staircase in front of a church that’s covering up bullet holes, and the empty lot where the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre took place. The two-hour tour features guides that take on the persona (and snappy garb) of ’20s gangsters. Guides tell the tales of prohibition-era Chicago and what it was like when gangsters like Al Capone, Bugs Moran and Hymie Weiss walked the streets.

Time Out tip:  One to book in advance for. 

3.  Gangsters and ghosts tour in Chicago

The towering skyscrapers and shining facade of Cloud Gate might make the Loop seem glitzy and glamorous, but it was once a hotspot for vice. In the ’20s and ’30s, this nabe was the epicenter of bootlegging and gangbanging in Chicago. Take a walking tour through the area to spy speakeasies, secret underground tunnels and maybe even a ghost or two.

Time Out tip: The meeting point is just outside the Wyndham Hotel – take that as our accommodation suggestion. 

4.  Vice, crime and gangsters in Chicago: A self-guided audio tour

There are endless upsides to taking tours of a city, but there are downsides as well—most notably, not being able to explore at your own pace. That’s not the case with the self-guided Vice, Crime and Gangsters in Chicago tour. The 31-stop audio tour starts at the Dusable Bridge and winds its way through notorious locations in the Loop and River North, including Chicago’s first vice district and the site of the Lager Beer Riot. It’s narrated by professor, urban historian and former journalist Richard Junger.

Time Out tip:  If you want to get familiar with your guide before the tour, have a skim-read of the books he's written on Chicago history. 

5.  Chicago night crimes tour

See the sites of grisly killings under the dark of night on this evening bus tour. You’ll visit the Biograph Theater where Dillinger met his end, the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre and other infamous locations. The bus even stops at a few historic watering holes like Harry Caray's so you can raise a glass to the city's dearly departed criminals.

Time Out tip: Don't worry about trying to snap pics from the window of the bus – photo stops will be granted. 

6.  Lincoln Park hauntings ghost investigation tour

On the surface, ghost tours and crime tours are two separate entities. But how does one become a ghost? Death. And how does someone’s death become notable enough to end up on a tour? It’s got to have some sort of criminal element, right? This ghost investigation tour is led by a paranormal investigator who takes guests through some of the eeriest locales in Lincoln Park, including the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. It also offers an opportunity to use paranormal activity-detecting equipment to help you determine if you just saw a ghost or a very exhausted DePaul student.

Time Out tip:  Keep your eyes peeled for the Victorian woman in white at Lincoln Park Zoo. 

7.  Private Al Capone gangster tour

Al Capone’s trademark look – thick eyebrows, jaunty hat, heavy overcoat and a cigar hanging from his lips – became the basis of the stereotype of the mafia man. Capone got his start in New York as a member of the Five Points Gang before founding the Chicago Outfit and wreaking havoc on the Midwestern city. Follow in his nefarious footsteps on this tour around the city in a private town car – in true mafioso style.

Time Out tip: Get a team of five together to get the best value group ticket. 

8.  Private Chicago Mafia and Blues Evening Tour

After a long night of making dirty deals and plotting the downfall of their enemies, Chicago mobsters used to unwind with some booze and live music at a mafia-friendly bar. You’ll do the same on this private guided tour that hits several historic landmarks before stopping for a drink at a bar formerly owned by Capone himself.

Time Out tip:  Plan this tour around a big night out, as it's a great way to get the party started before hitting the town when everyone's parted ways. 

9.  The Devil in the White City Tour

In addition to a thriving mob community, Chicago was also home to one of the country’s first known serial killers: H. H. Holmes. The insurance scammer and con man lured hundreds of people to the three-story hotel that would later be known as the Murder Castle: a labyrinth of trap doors, peepholes, dead-end stairways, gas chambers and crematorium that he used to murder his victims and dispose of their remains. To this day, authorities still don’t know how many people he might have killed. Learn the disturbing facts of the case on a Weird Chicago walking and bus tour.

Time Out tip: There's a restroom on board – always a win. 

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Chicago's Original Gangster Tour

Celebrating over 35 years of showing visitors a bang-up time in chicago.

Experience the original Gangster tour in the comfort of a climate controlled Limo Bus!

• Bus pickup is outside on Clark street between Ohio and Ontario Streets
• Meet the bus 10 minutes prior to tour for check-in. Bus departs on time
• Click on  BOOK NOW  to view daily schedule
• Advance reservations are strongly recommended
• Tours take place on the Gangster bus and are 1.5 – 2 hours in duration
• Ask about our children 12 and under discount
• Hour Glass 2 Hours

The Original Chicago Gangster Tour

Take a trip back in time to Prohibition-era Chicago to see the hotspots made famous by Al Capone and his enemies and allies.

About Untouchable Tours

Our guides are actors and take on the persona of a 1920’s gangster. Our gangster guides present an accurate account of the crimes and activities that were going on in Chicago during the 1920s and ’30s (Prohibition Era).

You will hear the exploits of Capone, Moran, Dillinger and the rest of the boys on this unforgettable Chicago crime tour ! Some sites included are: the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, the Biograph Theatre, and ​Holy Name Cathedral. The tour is educational but very entertaining with prizes at the end!

Visit iconic stops on the “Untouchable Tour”

Paul Gerke of 12 News Arizona spent the morning with the Gangster Guides Friday, May 3 with his piece “Where is Gerke Going.”

The Gangster Guides at Untouchable Tours worked with The Smithsonian Channel™ on the documentary  Drinks, Crime, and Prohibition,  a two-part series that aired June 11 and June 18. Check with your cable provider for the Smithsonian Channel in your area.

See us featured in Kayak.com's recommended attractions!

Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Tours

Chicago Tours | Gangster Tour and Ghost Tour

THE GANGSTERS AND GHOSTS TOUR

Chicago’s #1 gangster and ghost tours, click here to reserve online, 2 tours in 1.

Four tours run daily at 11 AM, 1 PM, 4 PM and 8 PM

Interested in exploring Chicago from the perspective of ghosts and gangsters? Want to really immerse yourself in the history of this great American city, right from the locations that started it all?

You can get the best of BOTH worlds with this 2 in 1, history-based guided tour of Chicago’s gangsters and ghost stories, right from the famous Chicago Loop Vice District!

Chicago’s Gangster History

Chicago is known worldwide for a colorful gangster past, starting during the 1920s and 30s with murder and mayhem down every alleyway. Gangster interactions became an everyday occurrence, with gangland shootings dominating news headlines from Chicago’s finest hotels, speakeasies, and mysterious sidewalks. Although the activity has since quieted down… it’s still alive, whether you want to believe it or not.

Best Chicago Gangster Tour

Our customized, historically enriched gangster tour will cover much of the history behind these famed murders, while we take you through the modern day haunted crime scene locations that are still frequented by the famous actors.

Do you believe in ghosts of gangsters past?

Call now to reserve your spot: 708-239-8542, adult (18-64) = $35, senior (65+) = $25, youth (7-17) = $17, child (0-6) = free, kids permitted; children under 6-years-old go free, click here to purchase a gift certificate, about the tour.

Ready to learn about Chicago’s haunted past? Four tours run daily at 11 AM, 1 PM, 4 PM and 8 PM One of the best ways to really acquaint yourself with the infamous city of Chicago is to do it from the streets, through a guided Chicago Gangster Tour or Ghost Tour, detailing the crimes,… Continue reading ABOUT THE TOUR

Contact and Meeting Location

Tour Time and Meeting Location Four tours run daily at 11 AM, 1 PM, 4 PM and 8 PM next to the Royal Sonesta Hotel at 71 E. Wacker Drive on the corner of Wacker Drive and N. Wabash. Contact Information By Phone: (708) 239-8542 or

Book Online Now

Four tours run daily at 11 AM, 1 PM, 4 PM and 8 PM Click Here to Check Availability! Adult (18-64) = $35 Senior (65+) = $25 Youth (7-17) = $17 Child (0-6) = Free Click Here to Purchase a Gift Certificate

The 11 Best Crime Tours in Chicago

Chicago is one of the best cities in the US for people who love dark history. But, at the same time, Chicago is known for its music scene, stunning art deco architecture, delicious deep-dish pizza and the bean! 

However, Chicago is also known for its dark past during the prohibition and is tied to some of the most infamous mobsters and gangsters, including Al Capone and John Dillinger.

Head out on the town and take one go on a Chicago Mob Tour to learn all the seedy details about Chicago’s Prohibition era. Then, visit some of Chicago’s most iconic areas that Chicago’s gangsters frequented during the roaring ‘20s by taking one of the best crime tours in Chicago.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Please see my  Privacy Policy  for more information.

Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago

Step back in time by following a historian tour guide on the Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago . The tour takes you back to the 1920s when the Chicago Loop was the hangout of the infamous gangster Al Capone.

During the prohibition, The Loop was the breeding ground for criminal activities, including illegal speakeasy saloons, secret underground tunnels, bootleggers and the headquarters for gangsters.

The Chicago gangster tour will take you to sites that gangsters frequented, including the Congress Hotel, Millennium Park, Death Alley, and the Palmer House, Chicago’s oldest hotel rumoured to be haunted.

The tour is one of the best Crime tours in Chicago, as it has a great mix of Gangsters and ghosts, so it is perfect for people who love both. I took the tour with tour guide Alan, and he was incredibly engaging and enthusiastic.

This tour is perfect for locals and visitors to Chicago. You will leave learning something new! I highly recommend taking this tour if you want to learn more about Chicago’s dark history and all about Chicago’s prohibition era.

Book here: Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago

Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

The Chicago Crime and Mob Tour carts you around areas frequented by Chicago mobsters like Al Capone, The Untouchables, Hymie Weiss, and John Dillinger.

The Chicago mob tour visits the Holy Name Cathedral, Biography Theatre, and the site where the Bloody St. Valentine’s Day Massacre occurred. If you are interested in Chicago’s mob history, this is the tour for you as you will hear thrilling stories about gangsters, violence and crime as you are taken around Chicago.

This tour is one of Chicago’s best Mafia and prohibition tours as it visits Frank Nitti’s vault hideout. In addition, you will visit a mob museum and historic bootlegging tunnels, where you will see safes used by mobsters in the 1920s.

Book here: Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

Chicago: Gangsters and Ghosts 2-Hour Walking Tour

The Chicago: Gangsters and Ghosts 2-Hour Walking tour is a history-based Chicago gangster tour that is perfect for people who love all things spooky! The tour is all about ghosts, gangsters and their perspective of Chicago.

This tour takes you through the Chicago Riverwalk, The Chicago Theatre, Palmer House, Cloud Gate, the Art Institute of Chicago and the Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center. You will hear tales of Chicago’s dark history at each stop from a historian guide.

You will find out how Al Capone ran his empire and learn about all of the crazy happenings that occurred at Al Capone’s headquarters. In addition, you will visit all of the haunted places in Chicago and hear about the ghosts that still haunt each site.

This is a family-friendly tour, and the tour guides are fun, enthusiastic and ensure the tour is exciting and unforgettable!

Book here: Chicago: Gangsters and Ghosts 2-Hour Walking Tour

Chicago Night Crimes Bus Tour

Explore the dark side of the windy city by taking the Chicago Night Crimes Bus Tour . The Chicago mob tour explores the lives of monsters and gangsters such as Frank Nitti, Bugs Moran and Al Capone. The tour has a great pace as you are taken around Chicago’s gangster-related locations.

The tour visits local pubs like the Burwood Tap and Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse. The Chicago Night Crimes Bus Tour passes by places like Water Tower Place, North Avenue Beach, Lincoln Park, Biograph Theatre, Oz Park, Marina City, and Holy Name Cathedral. You will visit some of the sites where the most infamous criminal acts took place back during the prohibition.

What makes this one of the Best Gangster Tours in Chicago? You get to relax on a warm bus heading to the following location, which is perfect on those cold Chicago nights. 

Book here: Chicago Night Crimes Bus Tour

Untouchable Tours Chicago’s Original Gangster Tour

Take a minibus back in time on the Orginal Gangster Tour to Chicago in the 1920s by visiting the hangouts of mobsters like Moran, Dillinger and Capone. 

You will hear all about the details of their haunts at sites like the Biograph Theater, Holy Name Cathedral, and St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. The tour takes you to about 10 locations connected to Chicago’s most infamous gangsters.

This tour is loads of fun and definitely one of the best Crime tours in Chicago because you will hear lots of history and comedy from a costumed guide. 

The Untouchable Tours Chicago’s Original Gangster Tour is excellent for older kids and adults. The guides are absolutely fantastic and super engaging.

If you are looking for a small group sized Chicago gangster tour, this is the crime tour for you as they have a max of 8 travellers!

Book here: Untouchable Tours Chicago’s Original Gangster Tour

1920s Chicago Walking Tour: Art Deco, Flappers, Gangsters, and Prohibition

Step back to the roaring 20s on the 1920s Chicago Walking Tour and see some of Chicago’s gorgeous hidden gems. You will explore all of the Art Deco architecture that lines the city now and shows you how glitzy and glamorous Chicago was during the prohibition.

The walking tour explores the exteriors and interiors of buildings that were once the hotspots for flappers, jazz musicians, speakeasies and the notorious gangsters who would spend time in each location.

You will also visit an old gangster headquarters where you will see photos, newspaper clippings and a vault that Al Capone and other gangsters used. You will also visit “The Loop,” which is in downtown Chicago and the site of Chicago’s spectacular art deco buildings.

Book here: 1920s Chicago Walking Tour: Art Deco, Flappers, Gangsters, and Prohibition

Vice, Crime and Gangsters in Chicago: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Do you want to go on all of the Crime tours in Chicago but don’t want to spend time with other people? Same. You can do that by taking the Vice, Crime and Gangsters in Chicago Self-Guided Audio Tour !

The self-guided tour takes you to sites like the DuSable Bridge, Chicago River, Franklin-Orleans Street Bridge, Chicago Riverwalk, and Wrigley Building. 

In addition, you can take your time exploring Chicago’s local haunts of the prohibition era’s infamous gangsters. If you want to do the whole tour in real-time, it will take at least 75 minutes.

The audio tour provides you with tales of Chicago’s dark history and the opium trade with the sweet sounds of urban historian Richard Junger’s voice.

Book here: Vice, Crime and Gangsters in Chicago: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Lincoln Park Hauntings Ghost Investigation Tour

Do you love ghost tours but want to dig a little bit deeper? Spend the evening with a paranormal investigator looking for all the ghosts haunting Chicago’s dark streets on the Lincoln Park Hauntings Ghost Investigation Tour .

You will visit the old City Cemetery, Couch Tomb and Lincoln Park, where you will hear about the history of the Great Fire of 1871 and more.

This is the perfect tour for people who want to go on one of the Crime tours in Chicago but want a paranormal twist. Plus, you will get the chance to use paranormal equipment and try to contact the spirits yourself!

Tour guide Tony is phenomenal and will go into great detail about all things Chicago during the prohibition and beyond.

Book here: Lincoln Park Hauntings Ghost Investigation Tour

Sin and Suds Chicago Beer Tour

Do you want to spend a few hours exploring Chicago on a gangster-themed beer tour? Then, head out on the town with the Sins and Suds Chicago Beer Tour . 

You will visit Chicago’s Loop and South Loop neighbourhoods sipping on the best beer and pizza Chicago offers while hearing the tales of the mafia scene of the 1920s.

You will visit up to four local bars, and samples of beer and pizza are included in the tour price. If you want a bit more to drink, be sure to bring some cash with you.

Book here: Sin and Suds Chicago Beer Tour

The Devil in the White City: A Haunting History Tour

Do you want to go on more Crime tours in Chicago but want to hear about more than Al Capone? The Devil in the White City explores the history surrounding the legend of the notorious H.H. Holmes.

The tour carts you around Chicago by bus for three hours of the insanity surrounding the 1893 Chicago World Fair. In addition, you will visit sites hit by H.H. Holmes, including Jackson Park, Midway Plaisance Park and the elusive Murder Castle of H.H. Holmes!

If you love Chicago crime tours and have done the rest, I highly recommend this tour.

Book here: The Devil in the White City: A Haunting History Tour

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Chicago: Crime and Mob Tour

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Chicago Crime Tours: Chicago Crime and Mob Tour

Among its many claims to fame, Chicago is notable for having at one time or another been home to, or the base of operations for, a long list of history’s most infamous criminals and mob figures. Notable criminals who at one time or another passed through the Windy City include Al Capone, John Dillinger, Hymie Weiss, and more. For all those visitors interested in learning more about the history of organized crime in the city of Chicago, Chicago Crime Tours offers the Chicago Crime and Mob tour. This guided tour runs throughout the near North Side of Chicago, taking guests to multiple historic crime locations and murder sites.

Chicago Crime and Mob Tour Details

The Chicago Crime and Mob tour is Chicago Crime Tours flagship tour. Its distinctive yellow crime-scene tape-wrapped coach buses bear the faces of Al Capone and John Dillinger, and depart from the corner of Michigan Avenue and Pearson Street. From there the tour takes you to a number of famous crime scenes located throughout the near North Side of Chicago, while your entertaining guide regales you with stories about Chicago’s history as a hub for mobsters and the activities of organized crime. Along the way you’ll see Biograph Theater, where John Dillinger was killed; Holy Name Cathedral, where Hymie Weiss was murdered; and the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, a case that to this day has never been definitively solved, but is linked to Al Capone and his associates. The Chicago Crime and Mob tour usually lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours; during the week it typically runs 3 times a day, while on weekends it often goes 4 times a day. Tickets cost approximately $40 per person.

True crime fans might also be interested in checking out Chicago Crime Tours’ special Night Crimes tour. The Night Crimes tour is a somewhat expanded version of the Chicago Crime and Mob tour that lasts between 2 and 2.5 hours. You’ll see many of the same highlights, but dig even deeper into Chicago’s criminal history. The Night Crimes tour runs Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings at 8:00pm. Advance reservations for this tour are highly recommended, and tickets cost about $45 per person.

Chicago Crime and Mob TourMajor Highlights

Michigan Avenue: Your Chicago Crime and Mob tour departs from 163 E. Pearson Street, a prominent corner right in the midst of some of Chicago’s most exclusive real estate. This is just steps away from the “Magnificent Mile” of Michigan Avenue, as well right nearby such tourist attractions as Water Tower Place, John Hancock Center , and the Museum of Contemporary Art , to name only a few.

Biograph Theater: The Biograph Theater is famous for being the site where infamous bank robber John Dillinger was shot and killed by FBI agents in 1934. Known today as Victory Gardens Theater, and located in the lively Lincoln Park neighborhood, it is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Holy Name Cathedral: This beautiful Gothic cathedral was dedicated in 1875 and still serves today as an active place of worship. However, during this tour the focus will be on looking at the bullet holes that remain visible from when Al Capone’s rival Hymie Weiss was gunned down nearby in the fall of 1926.

Courthouse Place: Today this historic structure is known as Courthouse Place, and serves as a mixed-use office building. However, once upon a time it was the Cook County Criminal Court Building, and was the setting for numerous legendary trials, including cases like the Leopold and Loeb trial, the Black Sox scandal trial, and others.

Is Chicago Crime and Mob Tours for You?

Obviously, the Chicago Crime and Mob tour is a special tour serving a very specific set of interests. However, if you are in fact interested in learning more about Chicago’s history as a center of organized crime, or just want to see for yourself in-person several of the most famous crime sites around, the Chicago Crime and Mob tour is a can’t-miss experience. It consistently receives strong reviews from customers, and the majority of individuals who go on this guided tour report back it having been well worth their time and money.

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Chicago Crime Tour: 5 Ways to Save Up to 38% Off

Dive into the underbelly of Chicago’s history, where mobsters once ruled the streets, murder was a chillingly common occurrence, and the echoes of massacres still linger.

If you have an insatiable curiosity about the realm of crime and gangsters or a desire to enter the shadowy underworld of the 19th century, then look no further. Follow along to discover the secrets of The Windy City’s notorious past as we list down some of the best Chicago crime tours!

These killer Chicago crime tours are tailor-made for you, promising an unforgettable journey through the city’s most infamous true crime stories and landmarks.

From interactive crime scene explorations to immersive storytelling, these tours offer a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of criminals and law enforcement alike.

So, unleash your inner detective, put on your finest fedora, and brace to unearth the hidden corners of the city’s dark side by embarking on these haunting crime tours in Chicago!

Chicago Crime Tours

Step aboard a mesmerizing bus tour through the world-renowned and famous Chicago Crime Tours ! Join this spine-tingling journey, which will depart from the meeting point at 163 E. Pearson Street , just across from Water Tower Place.

Plunge into the mysterious depths of Chicago’s history as you immerse yourself in the frightening tales of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, and dig deep into the notorious exploits of John Dillinger and Hymie Weiss. And traverse the enigmatic neighborhoods bearing the remnants of the city’s sinister past at:

• River North
• Lincoln Park
• and Magnificent Mile

This Chicago crime and mob tour starts and ends outside 163 E. Pearson St. (SE corner of Pearson and Michigan Ave). Arrive at least 10 minutes early to check in with the tour guide of this Chicago mob tour.  

Be forewarned, for the Chicago Crime Bus Tour is in high demand, and tickets vanish into the night supernaturally fast. Don’t fret, though! Rest assured that it would not be a crime if you reserve your Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour tickets with Tripster in advance!

Related Post: A Weekend in Chicago – How to Make the Most of 2 Days

Pro Tip: Chicago’s climate can be unpredictable, so dress accordingly. Bring a light jacket as you’ll hop aboard a climate-controlled bus. While on this crime bus tour Chicago, get ready to step off the vehicle at select stops for an immersive experience.

In addition, take your Chicago visit to a whole new level with Big Bus Chicago: Hop-On Hop-Off Tours ! Hop on and off at over ten convenient stops, including popular attractions like the Magnificent Mile, Field Museum, Adler Planetarium , and even the historic Criminal Courthouse.

Chicago Phobition Tour

Step back in the Prohibition Era, a time of rebellion and defiance against the constraints of the law, as you board the bus through the Chicago Phobition Tour. From the moment you step inside each speakeasy, you’ll be transported to a time of clandestine meetings, illicit deals, and roaring jazz.

Related Post: Famous Restaurants in Chicago – A Foodie’s In-Depth Guide

The Chicago Prohibition Tour starts at 27 N Wacker Dr #126 and ends at Harry Caray’s 33 W Kinzie Street in the River North neighborhood.

At this Chicago crime tour, your knowledgeable tour guide will talk about the rise of organized crime, the battles for control over bootlegging and speakeasies, and the consequences of unlawful trade.

Plus, you’ll gain insight into the lives of both infamous gangsters and ordinary people caught in the web of the prohibition era.

This true crime tour Chicago is a must-do for history buffs, crime enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an immersive and educational experience.

And if you’re eager to explore more of the city’s awe-inspiring attractions and activities, Tripster offers the perfect companion for your adventures: the Go Chicago Explorer Pass .

With the Go Chicago Explorer Pass, you can save time and money while experiencing the best of what Chicago has to offer. Simply select the number of attractions you want to visit and enjoy the convenience of skipping the ticket lines at your chosen destinations.

Crime and Pizza Walk

Does the thought of solving crime make you hungry? If so, get ready to satisfy your appetite for mystery and pizza with one of the best Chicago tours: the Chicago Crime and Pizza Walk!

Embark on an exciting 2-hour walking tour that starts at Pizzeria Uno on E. Ohio Street , where you’ll fuel up with a mouthwatering pizza that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Related Post: Nightlife in Chicago – 13 Unexpected Things to Do After Dark

Explore the historic River North and Gold Coast neighborhoods, where secrets of the past come alive with every step. Walk the same streets where these legendary figures once walked, and immerse yourself in the intriguing world of Chicago’s underworld.

The Chicago Favorites Walking & Food Tour starts at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, located at 410 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA .

Please note that the Chicago Crime and Pizza Walk is available exclusively on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Alternatively, you may also opt for the quintessential Chicago Favorites Food and Walking Tour to savor Chi-town’s favorite eats and visit some iconic landmarks.

Night Crime Tours

Leave the kiddos at home and prepare for an evening of intrigue, scandal, and a touch of mischief as you join Night Crime Tour Chicago . This adults-only true crime Chicago tour will take you through the moonlit streets of Chicago. Where you’ll visit historic bars that have witnessed the whispers of mobsters and the clinking of glasses in secret rendezvous.

Immerse yourself in the ambiance of the very bars that once catered to the city’s underworld elite. The legendary Burwood Tap and the iconic Harry Caray’s are just a glimpse into the alluring world you’ll explore at Chicago Night Crimes Tour.

The tour starts and ends outside 163 E. Pearson St. (SE corner of Pearson and Michigan Ave). Be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes early to check in with your tour guide.

Pssst…how many people can say they’ve set foot in a famous crime scene before? Earn some bragging rights by making sure to fully charge your smartphone or bring a camera to capture one-of-a-kind moments of your tour!

Related Post: Things to Do in Chicago – 32 Must-Try Activities

While this bus tour brings you to renowned bars and venues, it’s important to note that drinks are not included in your ticket. However, the unforgettable experiences and memories you’ll create are worth every moment as they offer an extraordinary blend of history, entertainment, and excitement.

Pro Tip: Before booking, checking out Chicago crime tour reviews is essential. Explore firsthand accounts praising the captivating narrations and knowledgeable guides, ensuring an unforgettable journey through the city’s underworld history.

Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago

Gangsters, ghosts, and ghouls. Are you ready to confront these elements of the past?

Stop scouring the Internet for the best Chicago gangster tour or Chicago mobster tour because the Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago has got you covered.

But beware, as this is a Chicago true crime tour that’s not for the faint of heart! Visit the authentic hangouts of notorious gangster Al Capone, where he plotted his schemes, and revel in the stories that bring the roaring 1920s to life.

Related Post: Things to Do with Teens in Chicago – Exciting Activities

As you pause at the legendary Palmer House Hotel, rumored to be haunted, you may encounter restless spirits that are said to roam the halls. Feel an unsettling tingle in the air as you continue your journey through Death Alley, an infamous location associated with gangland violence.

You will depart from the meeting location next to the Royal Sonesta Hotel at 71 E. Wacker Drive on the corner of Wacker Drive and N. Wabash. With this C hicago Al Capone tour , you’ll discover a side of Chi-town that few have witnessed and tales that will send chills down your spine.

Pro Tip: While the killer tours are family-friendly, it may be worth considering whether your little ones would fully appreciate the content. Due to its nature, these tours are generally recommended for ages six and up.

Book Chicago Crime Tours and Experiences – Gangsters, Mobsters and Criminals History Awaits

Prepare to be captivated, intrigued, and transported back in time as you roam the very streets where history was made and delve into the mysteries that will captivate your imagination.

Whether you’re a true crime aficionado or simply seeking a unique and thrilling adventure, these killer Chicago crime tours will not disappoint.

Immerse yourself in the gritty world of the eerie and wicked past of Chicago with Tripster! Book your Chicago hotels , attractions , and vacation packages with us today so you won’t miss your chance to explore the dark side of The Windy City like never before.

Don’t let your chance slip away into the night like a phantom, but only if you dare!

Chicago Crime Tour FAQs

Is the chicago crime tour worth it.

The Chicago Crime Tour is worth it for history buffs fascinated by the city's notorious Prohibition-era organized crime.

Dive into the world of infamous gangsters like Al Capone and John Dillinger on this immersive experience, featuring stops at historical sites and significant locations.

How Long is The Chicago Crime Tour?

The Chicago Crime Tour typically lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours, immersing participants in the fascinating history of the city's underworld.

With engaging narration and notable stops, this tour offers an insightful glimpse into Chicago's criminal past within a compact timeframe.

Does Chicago Have a Crime Museum?

Yes, Chicago hosts various crime museums and attractions delving into its infamous history of organized crime and violence.

These include the Chicago History Museum, the Medieval Torture Museum, the Field Museum, and the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio.

Tell us, What Other Crime Tours Chicago Did We Miss?

What’s your favorite crime tour Chicago? Let us know in the comments below!

Written by Archie Villaflores

Over the years, he has won numerous national contests for news and editorial writing, but he has recently discovered that his true passion...

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Escape into Chicago’s underworld on a crime and mob tour with Chicago Crime Tours. Some of the world’s most famous criminals, mobsters and gangsters bamboozled their way through Chicago. Sit comfortably on a climate controlled bus and enjoy sightseeing famous Chicago crime scenes from the 19th century through modern times. Investigate Al Capone, The Untouchables, The Chicago Mob, John Dillinger, H.H. Holmes, George Streeter, Leopold & Loeb, and more. See the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, one of Chicago’s most notorious murder scenes. Stakeout crime scenes like the Biograph Theatre, Holy Name Cathedral and other Chicago landmarks. Grab your camera for a drive-by shooting of the historic criminal courthouse, a Chicago architectural landmark where some of Chicago’s most notorious cases were tried. Escape into the criminal past of Chicago’s River North, Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, Old Town, Loop and Magnificent Mile neighborhoods. Get off the bus and explore where Chicago gangsters John Dillinger and Hymie Weiss stood just before their deaths.

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Chicago Crime & Mob Bus Tour: Criminals, Mobsters and Gangsters

⭐ Embark on the Chicago Crime & Mob Bus Tour: Criminals, Mobsters and Gangsters , a thrilling and distinctive adventure in Chicago, tracing the paths of some of the globe's most renowned criminals and gangsters.

Tickets for Chicago Crime & Mob Bus Tour: Criminals, Mobsters and Gangsters 🎫 General Admission

Highlights 🕵️ Learn about globally renowned criminal incidents like the St. Valentine's Day massacre 🚍 Visit well-known crime locations as the bus makes multiple stops 📜 Read a brochure containing valuable information with images

General Info 📅 Dates: select your date and time directly in the ticket selector ⏳ Duration: 2 hours. Please arrive 10 minutes earlier than your scheduled time 📍 Location: Chicago Crime Tours ❓ For this event, all sales are final and tickets can’t be refunded, changed or modified. 

Description Hop aboard the Chicago Crime & Mob Tour and immerse yourself into the gritty realm of Chicago's notorious criminals! Explore authentic crime scenes, listen to captivating anecdotes, and step into the past with interactive commentary, historical footage, and even a quiz. With stops at infamous crime sites both on and off the bus, this is your chance to discover the Windy City in a whole new light. Don't miss out on this unforgettable, adrenaline-pumping adventure if you crave excitement and intrigue—get your tickets for the Crime & Mob Bus Tour: Criminals, Mobsters and Gangsters in Chicago!

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Chicago Crime & Gangster Tour

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Free Chicago Walking Tours Chicago Crime & Gangster Tour takes you on an incredible journey through Chicago's storied past. You will learn how the Chicago Mafia came to power and visit some well-known and not-so-well-known Chicago Mob hangouts all while seeing the beautiful River North and Loop neighborhoods. And the best part - this Chicago Crime & Gangster tour is FREE!

The Characters

You have heard all of the household names before - Al Capone, Boss Dean O'Banion, George "Bugs" Moran, The North Side Gang & "Machine Gun" Jack McGurn. But do what the Beer Wars was? Or where the infamous Florist Shop was located? Let our resident Crime and Gangster expert tour guide take you on a walk through Chicago's storied criminal past on this fun and educational walking tour through River North and Chicago's Loop.

Starting at the picturesque Historic Old Water Tower at the corner of Chicago & Michigan Avenue our Chicago Crime & Gangster tour will clear the air on what really went down in Chicago during the roaring 20s and after.

Wind your way through the River North area learning about the multiple gangs and their leaders that were vying for a piece of the prohibition pie. Stops at Marina City Towers and the Lasalle Street Bridge will help explain how all of these characters crossed paths and shaped the future of Chicago.

And is there a more fitting end to the tour than Chicago's Federal Plaza - a place that represents law and order. The site of Al Capone's trial and conviction and now home to one of Chicago's most iconic pieces of public art - Calder's Flamingo.

Meeting Point:  Old Water Tower - Corner of Chicago & Michigan Avenue.  Google Maps

Distance:  2.1 miles walking distance

Time:  2 hours from start to finish

Cost:  FREE! Our guides work off the generosity of our guests. If you felt your guide has done a good job you can show your appreciation at the end of the tour by leaving a tip .

What you will see: 

• Old Chicago Water Tower
• Holy Name Cathedral
• Levi's Store - the former location
• Marina Towers
• Lassie Street Bridge
• Chicago Crime Commission Headquarters
• Federal Plaza

Stories you will be told: 

• The start of gangs in Chicago
• Boss Dean is shot at the Florist Shop
• The Story of "Machine Gun" Jack McGurn
• The Office gets bugged
• How the business changed from bootlegging to loans & gambling
• Peace talks break down
• Al Capone's Trial & Conviction

More Free Chicago Walking Tours

We know you will love the Chicago Crime & Gangster tour, so why not plan ahead and book another tour? If your group is larger than 6 people contact us regarding a Private Chicago Walking Tour .

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Offering bus guided and walking tours rooted in Chicago’s most notorious era.

Visit the speakeasies that made the famous, infamous. Become a "scofflaw" on our tours that tell stories of gangsters, politicians, and beyond in the spaces where it happened.

#1 Prohibition Tour In Chicago

Customers love us.

What a great tour to learn the history of famous Chicago speakeasies while enjoying a few drinks a long the way! The history given was thought provoking, we are delighted we booked the tour – it was the highlight of our recent visit to Chicago.

Sonia, International Traveler

From The Blog “The Hush” (Shh Speak Easy)

A Prohibition Conspiracy Theory That Might Actually be True?

A Time To Drink

What do you write about when it’s time to start the new blog for your new company do you write about the idea behind the company maybe, do you write about the start up process maybe, the research process  read more.

A Toast to the Prohibition Movement and Its Epic Failures

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Discover Chicago's Secrets with Magnifico Tours

At Magnifico Tours, we’ve reimagined Chicago exploration, intertwining the city’s mysteries and tales into our adventures. While our specialty lies in crafting detective intrigue within our Chicago Walking Tours, we embrace the rich tapestry that is Chicago’s history, from its notorious gangsters to its spectral legends, and from its architectural marvels to its vibrant cultural districts like Old Town.

The Chicago Murder Mystery Tour invites you to step into a detective’s shoes, solving mysteries as you navigate the city’s landmarks. And alongside the sleuthing adventure, our Private Chicago Magnifico Tour offers a unique Spanish-language journey through Chicago’s cultural wonders.

With Magnifico, every tour is a story, every moment a clue in the grand narrative of Chicago.

Our Chicago Walking Tours

The Chicago Murder Mystery Tour

Embark on a thrilling journey through Chicago’s Gold Coast with our Chicago Walking Tours. Not only will you delve into the city’s mysteries and legends from Al Capone to the Playboy Mansion. A must-experience for every true-crime aficionado.

Schedule: Daily

Start Time: 2 PM, 4:30 PM, 7 PM

Language: English

Duration: 2 Hours

View Highlights

The Private Chicago Magnifico Tour

Embark on a 2-hour journey through Chicago’s vibrant history with our expert guides. Dive into tales of Al Capone, architectural wonders, and our city’s rich Latin culture. Spoiler Alert: You’ll also get to know where NOT get Deep Dish Pizza!

Start Time: Customizable

Language: Spanish

Duration: Customizable

Testimonials

Our guests often find themselves immersed in the rich and varied tales of Chicago, exploring narratives that span from the spectral to the criminal, from the architectural to the historical. Whether it’s the allure of Chicago Gangster Tours, the spine-chilling tales reminiscent of Chicago Ghost Tours, or the architectural marvels that might be explored in a Chicago Architecture Tour, our adventures touch upon diverse threads of stories that make up the fabric of the city.

Mi parte favorita fueron las historias.

Muchas Gracias!

It’s the highlight of our trip to Chicago.

This tour was amazing.

Excellent fun!

Why You Should Go For Magnifico Tours

Our tours, while specializing in mystery and detective-themed experiences, also provide glimpses into other fascinating aspects of Chicago. Whether it’s the notorious past explored in Chicago Gangster Tours, the spectral stories you might find in Chicago Haunted Tours, or the architectural wonders celebrated in Chicago Architecture Tours, Magnifico ensures a rich and varied exploration of the city

Expert Guides

Our guides are Chicago enthusiasts and history buffs, blending historical knowledge with local insight.

Immersive Tours

Immerse yourself in an intriguing experience blending historical facts with captivating storytelling.

Exclusive Access

Our tours enter places not accessible to the general public so you can experience gems of Chicago.

Customizable

Personalize your journey! Tailor the tour to fit your unique interests and comfort level.

Inclusive Fun

Everyone – families, couples, friends, and solo travelers – is welcome for a memorable experience.

All-Weather

Regardless of rain or shine, our tours proceed. Plus, we offer easy rescheduling options.

Whether you’re exploring the city on foot with our Chicago Walking Tours, delving into the city’s notorious criminal past akin to Chicago Gangster Tours, or exploring the spectral stories similar to those in Chicago Ghost Tours, we ensure your adventures with Magnifico Tours are seamless and memorable. Find answers to common queries below, and prepare to step into the multifaceted stories of Chicago with us.

The closest parking garage to the Murder Mystery tour is located at 110 E Pearson St. And for the Magnifico Chicago Private Tour, the closest parking can be found at 505 N Michigan Ave.

Yes, it is a walking experience! The Chicago Murder Mystery is an interactive game that takes you through the city, revealing thrilling stories and showing you sites as you also solve a crime. The crime-solving bit is an interactive experience; if you don’t feel like taking part, you can opt out!

No worries, you are not obligated to perform. We often have families come where some wish to participate and others play as encouraging audience members. In the event where everyone is shy and less interested in playing, your tour can take on a more typical walking tour experience.

Our team is 100% responsive within a 24 hour period, and can be best reached by email [email protected] and Phone/Text/Whatsapp at 872-310-7645. Tickets are 100% refundable until 24 hours before a tour. If you need to cancel within 24 hours of the tour, you may reschedule onto any future tour. Again, please reach out by email or phone/text/Whatsapp.

• The St. Valentine's Day Massacre Site
• The famous alleyway from a legendary crime
• The haunted Chicago theatre

And a whole lot more!

Summer Safety Analysis: Chicago Crime Trends

These data visualizations present our summer safety analysis on Chicago crime trends.

As we head into the summer months, we expect to feel Chicago’s gun violence challenge even more acutely. By analyzing historical data, we hope to provide Chicago’s violence prevention stakeholders with insights about how to focus scarce resources and interventions toward the people and places most likely to be impacted.

Main findings:

• During the summer months, shooting incidents reach their peak, accounting for 38% of the total annual incidents, with July alone contributing to 12% of these tragic incidents.
• The surge in summer shootings is highly concentrated both spatially and temporally. Approximately a quarter of all 1000 x 1000 ft. grid cells in Chicago (1736 of 6942 total cells) observed 93% of all summer shootings from 2019 – 2023. Notably, over half of the summer shootings occurred between the late evening and early morning hours, from 8 PM to 3 AM, especially on weekends.

Interactive Map

Our analysis reveals that summer exacerbates the geographic concentration of shooting violence across the city. The upside is that we have a mapping tool that stakeholders can use to focus on the top 5% and 10% of grid cells where shootings occurred most frequently over the past 5 years. These areas are expected to account for a substantial share of violence this upcoming summer, approximately 30% for the top 5% and 50% for the top 10% of ranked cells.

Analytics Manager

See All Resources

2023 End-of-Year Analysis: Chicago Crime Trends

These slides present our end-of-year analysis on Chicago crime trends.

Violence Reduction Dashboard

Violence reduction dashboard – resource guide.

Webinar: Overview of the City of Chicago’s Violence Reduction Dashboard

Launched in May 2021 by the City of Chicago, with design and technical support from the Crime Lab, the Dashboard is a first-of-its-kind comprehensive tool that allows unfettered public access to city violence trends categorizable by victim type, date, and geographic area.

Latest Updates

See All Updates

The U.S. saw a big drop in shootings in 2023

Crime Lab Director of Programs Kim Smith spoke with WBEZ’s Patrick Smith about the Crime Lab’s end-of-year analysis of crime trends in Chicago. This conversation was featured on NPR’s All Things Considered.

Chicago ends year with fewer shootings, but more robbers use guns as overall crime remains high

The Crime Lab’s Director of Programs Kim Smith is interviewed by the Chicago Sun-Times’ David Struett to discuss end-of-year analysis of crime trends in Chicago.

How the Johnson administration plans to prevent Chicago crime

Kim Smith, the Crime Lab’s Director of Programs, joins WBEZ’s Reset with Sasha-Ann Simons to discuss end-of-year analysis of crime trends in Chicago.

The Rundown: A year-end look at crime in Chicago

Good afternoon! Thousands of copyrighted works from 1928 are now in the public domain , including the original version of Mickey Mouse that appeared in “Steamboat Willie.” Here’s what else you need to know today.

1. Chicago ended 2023 with fewer shootings, but more robbers used guns

Let’s talk about the good news first: The city followed a national trend of lowered gun violence in 2023, with shootings and homicides dropping for the second year in a row.

And driving this decline is a decrease in the number of victims in their 20s, the age range of people who are historically most likely to be wounded or killed, my colleague David Struett reports.

“That’s something we didn’t expect to see,” said Kim Smith, a director of the University of Chicago Crime Lab. She suggested the city’s efforts to support men in their 20s are paying off.

At the same time, Chicago stood nearly alone nationally in facing a spike in robberies — 40% more victims than the year before.

And more robbers are carrying guns, according to the University of Chicago Crime Lab. In 2019, about 40% of robberies involved a gun. That surged to 60% in 2023.

Other violent crime was also up in the city the past year: a 17% increase in aggravated battery and an almost 7% rise in assaults.

“Experts have theories for 2023’s trends: criminals turning to other crimes, more potential victims on the street after the pandemic, continued proliferation of firearms,” Struett writes. [ Chicago Sun-Times ]

2. Chicago Police officers may no longer be stationed at public schools this fall

Chicago Public Schools officials have quietly been telling principals to prepare for the possible removal of police officers stationed in school buildings by next fall, my colleague Sarah Karp reports.

The news comes as Mayor Brandon Johnson’s appointees to the Chicago Board of Education seek to reshape the city’s public schools to align with the mayor’s vision.

The board, which serves as the governing body for the school district, will vote this summer on whether to renew the $10.3 million police contract.

In their private meetings with principals, CPS officials indicated board members have already made up their minds to remove police officers, according to a principal who was present.

Social justice advocates and the Chicago Teachers Union have criticized police officers in schools, pointing to studies showing they lead to the criminalization of student misconduct and contribute to the school-to-prison pipeline.

But Troy LaRaviere, the head of the Chicago Principals & Administrators Association, said several of his members are worried about removing police officers from their schools. [ WBEZ ]

3. Another plane carrying migrants arrived in the Chicago area

A plane carrying 355 migrants arrived in suburban Rockford early Sunday, marking the latest example of how Texas officials are sidestepping Chicago’s crackdown on buses bringing asylum-seekers to the city.

The plane landed about 1 a.m. at Chicago Rockford International Airport, and migrants were immediately put on buses chartered by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, local officials said.

A Chicago spokesperson said the buses then dropped migrants off in surrounding suburbs, and they are now making their way to Chicago via trains and other means, my colleague Kaitlin Washburn reports.

The Chicago City Council recently approved new rules that allow officials to fine bus companies that disregard the city’s drop-off protocols. Only two buses can arrive each hour at a designated landing zone between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. [ Chicago Sun-Times ]

4. Should a portrait of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan be displayed at the state’s Capitol?

Michael Madigan was one of the most powerful men in state politics until federal authorities accused him of abusing his position to enrich himself and his allies.

Now, a Republican state lawmaker wants to ban any portrait of Madigan from being hung at the statehouse, my colleague Dave McKinney reports.

“With indictments delivered for former Speaker Madigan and a trial underway coming up this spring, I thought it was very important that we say no portrait of Speaker Madigan should be hung in the House of Representatives until such time that he may be acquitted,” said the resolution’s sponsor, state Rep. Ryan Spain, R-Peoria.

But Madigan’s successor, House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, isn’t embracing Spain’s attempts to bar recognition for the ex-speaker and needled his GOP colleague for hypocrisy.

That’s because a portrait of Republican George Ryan, who went on to serve time in federal prison after leaving the governor’s office 20 years ago, hangs in an upper-level gallery directly above the House speaker’s rostrum. [ WBEZ ]

5. Let’s talk about New Year’s babies

Elise Grace Garcia was always meant to be a holiday baby, my colleague Mariah Rush reports.

She was originally due on Christmas Eve. But Elise didn’t come, and parents Jaime and Monsserrat Garcia decided to go ahead and make New Year’s Eve plans.

The couple decided to go to church on Sunday morning, and contractions began during Mass.

The Garcias then headed to Rush University Medical Center, and Elise was born at 12:39 a.m. Monday.

“This is truly an amazing blessing,” Jaime Garcia said. “A new life on the new year.” [ Chicago Sun-Times ]

Here’s what else is happening

Half of Gaza’s population faces the risk of starvation, the U.N. warned. [ New York Times ]

A Japan Airlines plane collided with a smaller coast guard aircraft at a Tokyo airport, killing five people on the coast guard plane. [ BBC ]

Here are four ways that artificial intelligence could help with climate change. [ NPR ]

Jonathan, a 400-pound tortoise and the world’s oldest living land animal, celebrated his 191th birthday. [ Washington Post ]

Oh, and one more thing …

If you have broken string lights from your holiday decorations, you don’t have to throw them away.

Reduce Waste Chicago, a nonprofit organization aimed at tackling climate change, has more than 20 locations across the city to drop off broken lights, Block Club Chicago reports.

“The first year we collected 1,300 pounds of string lights from six locations on the North Side. Last year, we expanded to 12 drop-off locations and collected 1,500 pounds of string lights,” said Sherry Skalko, the group’s founder. [ Block Club Chicago ]

Meanwhile, got a Christmas tree and don’t know what to do about it? Chicago has a recycling program where you can drop off your tree at one of 27 locations around the city. The trees will be used as mulch for local parks and forests. [ City of Chicago ]

Tell me something good ...

Over my holiday break I watched Rebel Moon on Netflix and woof. But it got me thinking, what’s a bad movie you love to watch? Or a movie that flopped but you thought was amazing?

I’ll give you a couple, which all happen to be sci-fi.

There’s Jupiter Ascending , which features space rollerblades and a villain with unresolved mommy issues, followed by Moonfall (the moon is literally going to crash into Earth) and Congo , because Amy is a good gorilla and “stop eating my sesame cake.”

Feel free to email me, and your responses might be shared in the newsletter.

11-year-old boy robbed 62-year-old aboard a CTA train, Chicago police say (His accomplice was 14)

Chicago police have charged an 11-year-old boy with robbing a man nearly six times his age on a CTA train. He worked with a 14-year-old girl to commit the crime, police said.

The pair robbed the 62-year-old inside a Red Line train car at State-Lake around 7:30 p.m. on May 24, according to police.

CPD said the girl also robbed a 41-year-old man at the Clark-Division station about 40 minutes later. This victim was also on a Red Line train.

Both juveniles are charged with robbery of a victim over the age of 60. The girl faces an additional charge of robbery.

No additional information is available about the teens because their cases were filed in juvenile court.

Original reporting you’ll see nowhere else, paid for by our readers. Click here to support our work.

© 2024 CWBChicago LLC. All rights reserved.

Watch CBS News

Secret Service tours Chicago DNC venues; CPD officers to train for unrest

By Megan Hickey

Updated on: June 4, 2024 / 5:25 PM CDT / CBS Chicago

CHICAGO (CBS) -- "Make no mistake, we are ready" – that was the message Tuesday from the Chicago Police Department about the upcoming Democratic National Convention.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Secret Service director toured key Chicago venues on Tuesday. But the Secret Service is staying tight-lipped about the convention perimeter—and an expert said the agency will not discuss it until absolutely necessary.

The perimeter is a big deal—because it will impact road closures and where people will assemble.

U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle did say Tuesday that the agency is looking at a footprint that will have as *minimal an impact as possible on Chicagoans."

Cheatle, who grew up in the Chicago suburbs, said she does not want locals to think they need to flee the city for the Democratic National Convention.

"We've made very sure that the footprint that we have for security is as minimal an impact to residents, businesses, neighborhoods as possible," Cheatle said.

Director Cheatle and Chicago Police Supt. Larry Snelling spoke to reporters during a break from two days' worth of closed-door tours of the United Center and McCormick Place ahead of the DNC, which is set for Aug. 19-22.

"There's a myriad number of issues to address," said former Orland Park police chief and retired Secret Service agent Tim McCarthy.

McCarthy said one of the important tasks during the Secret Service's current visit will be setting up a central communication center. He said he is not surprised that organizers have been closed-mouthed so far about the exact perimeter of the convention.

"It's good operational security not to put out the perimeter until you absolutely have to," said McCarthy, "so let's not give anyone who might have some bad intentions any more information than they need."

Training for Chicago Police officers also took center stage at the briefing Tuesday morning.

Supt. Snelling said all officers will undergo training—but about 2,500 to 3,000 will be trained to respond directly to civil unrest and the possibility of riots.

"If you're protesting peacefully, and you're not breaking the law, then you have First Amendment protections," Snelling said. "But the minute you start to break the law, you're not protected under the First Amendment at that point."

Snelling estimated another 400 officers from outside agencies will come in to help with security, but CPD officers are the ones who will be trained to specifically handle unrest.

"There is a possibility for vandalism, there is a possibility for violence - and we're prepared to deal with that," Snelling said.

The Secret Service director was asked about the possibility of Russian interference at the DNC. While she said she could comment on specifics, she said such a possibility is one of many scenarios for which her agency and the FBI are planning

• United Center
• United States Secret Service
• Democratic National Convention
• Chicago Police Department

Megan Hickey is a member of the 2 Investigator team, focusing on topical investigative stories.

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• chicago violence

Chicago shootings: At least 16 shot, 1 fatally, in weekend gun violence across city, police say

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Our coverage of this story has moved here .

At least 16 people have been shot, one fatally, in gun violence across Chicago so far this weekend, police said.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

A 41-year-old man was fatally shot Friday in Auburn Gresham on the South Side.

At about 7 p.m., he was in the 8700 block of South Loomis Street when two gunmen approached him and fired shots, Chicago police said.

The man suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his body and was pronounced dead at the scene, police said. No arrests were reported.

Hours later, a concealed-carry license holder shot three people outside his home in the city's Belmont Cragin neighborhood, police said.

The shooting happened at around 11:23 p.m. in the 4700 block of West Wrightwood Avenue, police said. A war of words turned into an all-out brawl, ending with shots fired.

The 43-year-old male victim was arguing with three men who he knew when police said the men attacked him.

"He's my cousin, the one that they beat up," Andres Salgado said. "I don't really know the whole story, but my cousin's a hardworking man... he has two kids. His wife is a teacher in public schools."

According to police, the victim pulled out a handgun and fired it, striking all three alleged attackers. The homeowner is a concealed-to-carry license holder.

"They tried to go into my cousin's house," Salgado said.

A 29-year-old man sustained five gunshot wounds to the torso and was transported to Mt. Sinai Hospital in critical condition, police said. A 22-year-old man was shot in the chest and taken to Illinois Masonic Hospital in critical condition. A 55-year-old man was shot in the neck and is in critical condition at Illinois Masonic Hospital.

Police said the victim sustained blunt force trauma to the head and body and transported to Mt. Sinai Hospital in critical condition.

The victim's gun was recovered at the scene, police said.

"He's a hardworking man, doesn't deserve this," Salgado said.

A motive and the circumstances behind the attack are still under investigation by Area Five detectives. No information has been released by police about any possible criminal charges.

Minutes later, two men were shot and critically injured in the University Village neighborhood, police said.

The men were on the street in the 1300-block of West 13th Street when someone fired shots.

A 23-year-old man, shot four times in his leg, was dropped off at Stroger Hospital in critical condition.

Another man, 26, was also shot in his leg. He was transported to the same hospital in good condition.

Police said both victims refused to answer any questions about the shooting. No one is in custody and Area Three detectives are investigating.

One Sunday, a man was shot while trying to break into a home on the city's South Side, Chicago police said.

The shooting happened around 12:53 a.m. in the 8100-block of Champlain Avenue in the Chatham neighborhood.

A 50-year-old man was trying to break into the house when he was shot by the homeowner, who is a concealed-carry license holder.

The suspect was taken to the hospital in critical condition was a gunshot wound to the back. Chicago police area detectives are investigating.

Over Memorial Day weekend , at least 41 people were shot, nine fatally, in gun violence across Chicago, police said.

INTERACTIVE SAFETY TRACKER Track crime and safety in your neighborhood

The Sun-Times Media Wire contributed to this report.

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Transportation

Transportation | from decay to dazzling, ford restores grandeur to detroit train station that once symbolized decline.

The interior of the Michigan Central Station is seen, Monday, May 13, 2024 in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

The ceiling of the Michigan Central Station is seen, Monday, May 13, 2024 in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

A newly crafted clock above the former ticket windows at the Michigan Central Station is seen, Monday, May 13, 2024 in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

Ford Motor Co., executive chairman Bill Ford is photographed at the Michigan Central Station, Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

Ford Motor Co., executive chairman Bill Ford is interviewed at the Michigan Central Station, Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

The entrance to the Michigan Central Station is seen, Monday, May 13, 2024 in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

FILE- The exterior of the Michigan Central Station is seen, Thursday, Jan. 21, 2010 in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio_File)

FILE- The interior of the Michigan Central Station is seen, Thursday, Jan. 21, 2010 in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio_File)

The interior of the Michigan Central Station is seen, Wednesday, May 15, 2024 in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

FILE- The interior of the Michigan Central Station is seen, Saturday, July 18, 2013 in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio_File)

FILE- The exterior of the Michigan Central Station is seen, July 13, 2023 in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio_File)

FILE- The abandoned Michigan Central Station is seen, Thursday, Jan. 21, 2010 in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio_File)

A photograph showing the scavenger-ravaged ticket booth area is displayed at the Michigan Central Station, Monday, May 13, 2024 in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

Michigan Central Station Head of Place Melissa Dittmer, right, and CEO Josh Sirefman give a tour of the train station, Monday, May 13, 2024 in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

Michigan Central Station Head of Place Melissa Dittmer, left, and CEO Josh Sirefman give a tour of the train station, Monday, May 13, 2024 in Detroit. A once hulking scavenger-ravaged monolith that symbolized Detroit's decline reopens this week after a massive six-year multimillion dollar renovation by Ford Motor Co., which restored the Michigan Central Station to its past grandeur with a focus squarely on the future of mobility. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

The once-blighted monolithic Michigan Central train station — for decades a symbol of Detroit’s decline — has new life following a massive six-year, multimillion-dollar renovation to create a hub for mobility projects in the rebirth of the Motor City.

The hulking, scavenger-ravaged structure that ominously shadowed the city’s Corktown neighborhood is now home to Ford Motor Co. and the centerpiece of a sprawling 30-acre mobility innovation district.

The building’s first tenant, Google’s Code Next Detroit computer science education program, is expected to move in by late June. Grand opening ceremonies include an outdoor concert on Thursday, with tours for the public starting Friday.

“The train station … it is perhaps the most powerful story in Michigan of the power of historic renovation,” Detroit Regional Chamber President and Chief Executive Sandy Baruah said. “To turn something that was blight into something that is hugely attractive and is an anchor as opposed to a deficit is huge.”

The restoration effort — part of the automaker’s more than $900 million project to create a place where new transportation and mobility ideas are nurtured and developed — was just as massive as the size of the more than century-old, 500,000-square-foot  building.

In numbers:

• More than 3,100 workers spent about 1.7 million hours of labor on the station and its surrounding public spaces
• 29,000 Gustavino tiles were restored in its Grand Hall
• 8.6 million miles of new grout was laid across the 21,000-square-foot ceiling
• 8 million bricks, 23,000 square feet of marble flooring and 90,000 square feet of decorative plaster were restored or replicated
• 3.5 million gallons of water was pumped from the basement
• Installation of 300 miles of electrical cable and wiring and 5.6 miles of plumbing

“It was always my hope that this project would be a catalyst for moving the city and our industry together into the future,” Bill Ford, the automaker’s executive chair and great-grandson of its legendary founder, Henry Ford, told The Associated Press last week. “It’s always the future. We’re just getting started, now. Took a long time for us to get here and a lot of hard work and a lot of blood, sweat and tears to get to this point.”

The train station’s history reflects the city’s fortunes during its heyday as the world’s car capital and later misfortunes as thousands of auto workers and other residents fled Detroit for life in the suburbs.

Michigan Central Railroad started purchasing land around 1908 in Corktown, the city’s oldest neighborhood, for the new train station, according to HistoricDetroit.org . The depot opened in late 1913. But as traveling by train gave way to commuter air travel and as more Americans chose to use the nation’s interstates, the numbers of people coming through Michigan Central steadily dropped.

The last train pulled out in 1988 and for years after the building fell into disrepair, neglect and abandonment. It became a destination for the curious and urban adventurers seeking out such places. Other buildings in Detroit, particularly factories, suffered the same or similar fate, but due to Michigan Central’s size it became a symbol of the city’s decline.

Redevelopment by its former owner never materialized. Then in 2018, Ford announced it was buying the 18-story building and adjacent structures as part of its plans for a more than 1 million square foot campus focusing on autonomous vehicles.

“There’s a lot of innovation going on here,” said Jim Farley, Ford chief executive. “Very much the future of the company is going to be housed here and on the campus. It represents our future revenues.”

The project is expected to bring with it thousands of tech-related jobs. Restaurants, new hotels and other service-industry businesses already are moving into and near Corktown.

In December, state officials announced three proposed housing development efforts intended to meet housing needs around Michigan Central and the innovation district.

Michigan Central and several other efforts around Detroit are expected to accelerate southeastern Michigan’s innovation economy, said Baruah, who added that the building and the surrounding campus will help draw the best and most innovative minds to the area.

“It’s really an attraction play. It’s about talent,” he said.

The reopening of the train station also comes as Detroit apparently has turned the corner from national joke to national attraction. Nearly a decade from exiting its embarrassing bankruptcy, the motor city has stabilized its finances, improved city services, staunched the population losses that saw more than a million people leave since the 1950s, and made inroads in cleaning up blight across its 139 square miles.

Detroit now is a destination for conventions and meetings. Last month, Detroit set an attendance record for the NFL draft after more than 775,000 fans poured into downtown last month for the three-day event.

The buzz about Detroit “is very different nationally,” Bill Ford said.

“I think when people see a project like this it’ll really put an exclamation on that,” he added. “And when we’re trying to recruit people from around the country and around the world, wouldn’t you say to them then ’come to Detroit and let me show you where you can work and play and live, and also live affordably.’”

The significance of Michigan Central’s rebirth is not lost on Mayor Mike Duggan, whose administration has guided Detroit back to respectability since the city’s 2014 exit from the largest municipal bankruptcy in U.S. history.

“I’ve been waiting 40 years for this day and so have all long-time to Detroiters, so it’s going to be very special,” Duggan said last week. “It’ll be a very emotional day.”

“The abandoned train station was the national symbol of Detroit’s decline and bankruptcy,” he explained. “So the fact that not only has the city come back, but that the train station has come back in such a spectacular way and the place where we’re going to be designing the automobiles of the future. It’s now about the future, not about the past.”

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