Chicago’s Ragtime & Jazz Eras Self-Guided Audio Tour
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Explore Chicago’s vibrant past through the eyes of iconic figures like Al Capone and the Everleigh Sisters with the Chicago’s Ragtime & Jazz Eras: A Self-Guided Audio Tour. This affordable walking experience lets you discover the city’s lively history at your own pace, whether you’re strolling through historic districts or listening from home.
Walk in the footsteps of gangsters, bootleggers, and crooked officials who shaped Chicago’s notorious reputation. The tour features insights from Richard Junger, an urban historian and author passionate about Chicago’s colorful past. Choose to complete the tour in about 45 minutes or linger longer at your favorite stops—it's entirely up to you.
Enjoy unlimited access to the tour before your booking date and even after. With the virtual tour option, you can explore Chicago’s jazz and ragtime eras from the comfort of your home, making it perfect for any schedule or location.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the tour take?
The self-guided Chicago’s Ragtime & Jazz Eras tour lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you spend at each stop.
What do I need to participate?
You’ll need a smartphone with the VoiceMap app installed, along with headphones. The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels and can be enjoyed solo or in a small group.
Can I do the tour at home?
Yes! The virtual tour option allows you to explore Chicago’s jazz and ragtime history from your own living room, with offline access to all audio and maps.
Are there any additional costs?
No, the tour price includes access to the VoiceMap app, offline audio, maps, and geodata. However, tickets to museums or attractions along the route are not included.
Is this a group tour?
This is a private, self-guided experience designed for individual exploration or small groups up to 15 people.
What if I want to cancel?
All sales are final. Cancellations are not refundable once booked, so be sure of your plans before purchasing.
Non-refundable
All sales are final. No refunds are available for cancellations once booked.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 45 minutes – 1 hour
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- VoiceMap App for Android and iOS
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- Lifetime access to this self-guided tour in English
Not included
- Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
- Smartphone and headphones
- Transportation
- Food and drinks
Itinerary
This self-guided tour takes you through Chicago’s jazz and ragtime eras, highlighting key districts and historic sites.
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Stop 1
The tour explores Chicago's rich history during the ragtime and jazz eras.
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Stop 2
Pass through Chicago's Motor Row district, built between 1905 and 1936 by notable architects.
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Stop 3
Visit Chicago's Prairie district, once the site of the Battle of Fort Dearborn and later a fashionable residential area after the Great Fire.
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Stop 4
Drive past The Four Deuces while learning about its history and significance in Chicago's jazz scene.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point in Chicago.
Before you arrive, install the VoiceMap app and use the unique code provided on your booking confirmation. This self-guided tour can be started, paused, or restarted at any time, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Detailed instructions for the starting point are available after download.
Open in Google MapsHow to get there
Download the VoiceMap app, enter your code, and follow the directions to the start location. Once there, put on your headphones, tap start, and enjoy your tour.
Cancellation & confirmation
Non-refundable
All sales are final. No refunds are available for cancellations once booked.
- 0% refund if canceled at any time after purchase
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $6.99 per person
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
