When you visit a Offbeat Places, instead of going to the known places, try finding the lesser-known spots for a change. It would be exciting and thrilling to find new places where you can enjoy calmly without any rush. There are several buses and walking tours which is a great way to find underrated places. Here are a few hidden spots for you to check out.
Top 10 Hidden Gems of Chicago
1. American Writers Museum

If you are a reader or someone who loves to write, you should definitely check this museum out. Moreover, you can learn more about famous journalists or authors. The museum also has interactive timelines which is very interesting. Children under the age of 13 can enter for free but adults need to buy the tickets. You might even enjoy the experience of Word waterfalls and watch videos. It is open on Thursday-Monday from 10 am till 5 pm.
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2. Elevated Train and Station Platforms

While walking near the train station, you can observe beautiful places in Chicago. It is a place where you can see many important sites and they are in a loop. So when you are walking around the loop, you might even learn a thing or two about the history of the bullet train. However, there would be a guide to take you to this place and explain about the surroundings in detail. They will also tell you about the importance of Chicago’s metro station.
3. Criminal History Spots

The most famous gangster in Chicago was Al Capone. However, Vice, Crime, and Gangsters Self-Guided Audio Tour will take you around the places where the earliest criminal bosses, corrupt police officers politicians and saloon owners were once based. You can check the cheap saloons and gambling resorts, which is very thrilling if you are into criminal history and like to know more about it. This is a very interesting self-guided tour and you need to download the VoiceMap app to take part in the tour.
4. Escape Room Adventure
This adventure is for you if you like to solve puzzles and engage in confusing situations. You can spend 1 hour in an escape room. You can decide which escape room you want to take part in out of the 5 rooms. Furthermore, your guide will take you through it. Like shown in movies, you will have to use your brain very quickly and have great communication skills to pass the room. Oh yes, and there is a time limit. Moreover, the players get to eat dinner at River North after the game is finished.
5. Indoor Skydiving
It sounds weird, doesn’t it? It is one of the most Offbeat Places in Chicago and not many people know about it. The iFLY Chicago-Naperville: First-Time Flyer Experience will give you a thrill because this room will let you feel as if you are in the air even though you don’t need a parachute. This is the best and safest activity for kids as they will enjoy it a lot through. A professional will be there to help you out and provide you with all the equipment needed.
6. Underground Donut Tour
People love to eat donuts but have you ever heard of underground donut tours? It is a lane in Chicago where you can find many doughnut shops where you get to taste as well as quality. It is a perfect place to celebrate birthdays or even business gatherings. Moreover, the guide will explain the history of the oldest doughnut shops.
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7. A Minibus Tour
To travel the city comfortably, there are small minibuses that take a group of people around the city. While travelling on the bus, you can see the beautiful Chicago River and The Loop will also be visible.
8. Ride a Segway
Riding a segway in the beautiful Buckingham Fountain while you also watch the beautiful Chicago skyline is a very thrilling experience. While you are on your Segway Lakefront tour, you can also observe iconic buildings in the cities as well as the Field Museum. You will get training before you start with the tour.
9. Underground Tunnels of Downtown Chicago
In North America, downtown Chicago has some great architectural sites. Through the pedways, you can explore these underground tunnels. You will also see an underground swimming pool in the corridors of stained glass hallways. It is a two-hour tour where you might uncover secrets. The guide will discuss different buildings throughout the tour.
10. Craft Brewery tour
Chicago has one of the most famous bar cultures but did you know how these beverages are made? To find it out, you have to board a barrel bus and see for yourself. The bus will take you through the behind-the-scenes of the making of the beer. You will also gain good knowledge about the beer-making process. Moreover, you might also get to taste the famous beers. The commentary will be done by a qualified guide on the bus.
Conclusion
There are several underrated Offbeat Places in Chicago. So if you are planning to visit these places, be ready to have fun and an amazing experience of the city. The underground tour to the doughnuts is great for you if you love sweets and if you are into criminal documentaries, you can experience it in the city as well.
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FAQ
1. Are these offbeat places family-friendly?
Yes, many of these activities, such as the American Writers Museum, indoor skydiving, and underground doughnut tours, are perfect for families.
2. Do I need to book in advance for these activities?
It is recommended to book in advance for activities like escape rooms, indoor skydiving, and guided tours to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Are these locations accessible by public transportation?
Most of these spots are well-connected via Chicago’s public transportation system. Some tours, like the minibus or segway tours, also provide transportation as part of the experience.