What is the Chicago Explorer Pass?
The Chicago Explorer Pass allows its user to visit either 3, 4, or 5 of Chicago’s most popular attractions, museums, tours, and more.
The pass can be purchased for a flat rate (see below for cost information). After the first use, you have 30 days to visit the remaining number of attractions on your pass.
Depending on the attractions you visit, the Explorer Pass can save you up to 40% off the cost of buying the tickets individually.
For select attractions that frequently have long lines (like the SkyDeck or 360 Chicago), the Chicago Explorer Pass gives users skip-the-line access.
When you purchase the Chicago Explorer Pass, you’ll receive a Guide Book that includes information on the 25+ attractions you can choose from. The book includes cost information and skip-the-line access availability. Make sure the things you choose are worth the savings in cost and/or time.
How much does the Chicago Explorer Pass cost?
| Number of Attractions | Cost for Adults/Children (3-12) |
| 3 | $79 adults/$49 children |
| 4 | $104 adults/$69 children |
| 5 | $119 adults/$79 children |
You can occasionally find deals on the Chicago Explorer Pass on sites like Groupon, so be sure to shop around!
Which attractions are included in the Chicago Explorer Pass?
Attractions included with Chicago Explorer Pass:
- Adler Planetarium (skip-the-line entry included)
- Brookfield Zoo
- Frederick C Robie House (walking tours available; closed Tue and Wed)
- 360 Chicago (skip-the-line entry included)
- LEGOLAND Discovery Center (skip-the-line entry included)
- Lincoln Park Zoo (including passes for Carousel and Children’s Train)
- Navy Pier (including Ferris wheel, miniature golf, lighthouse, wave swinger ride, & carousel)
- SkyDeck Chicago, Willis Tower (express entry)
Museums included with Chicago Explorer Pass:
- Art Institute of Chicago (skip-the-line entry included)
- Chicago Children’s Museum
- Chicago History Museum
- Field Museum
- Museum of Contemporary Art
- Museum of Science and Industry, plus Omnimax (express entry included)
Tours included with Chicago Explorer Pass:
- 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Pass
- Chicago Architecture Foundation walking tour
- Chicago Theatre Marqee Tour
- Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio Tour
Activities included with Chicago Explorer Pass:
- Architecture River Cruise (seasonal)
- Navy Pier or Millennium Park Half-Day
- Bike Rental
- Classic Lake Cruise (seasonal)
- Tall Ship Cruise (seasonal)
The Chicago Explorer Pass is a great way to see your favorite attractions without the hassle of waiting in lines and purchasing tickets separately. Do some quick research on the activities you’re interested in and add up the costs/benefits. Then decide if the Chicago Explorer Pass is a worthwhile investment for you.
Keep in mind, the Guide Book is available in multiple languages. It includes all the information you need (opening hours, costs, etc.) on every attraction/activity offered with the pass.
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