The Ferris Bueller Guide to Chicago

By Seren Morris
Published: July 18, 2024

Visiting Chicago and want to experience your very own day off, Ferris Bueller style? We’ve put together a Ferris Bueller’s Day Off Chicago itinerary so you can walk in the footsteps of Ferris, Cameron, and Sloane as they enjoy the best sights and attractions Chicago has to offer. As Ferris said: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” So make the most of your Chicago vacation and visit the best attractions the city has to offer, including...

  • SkyDeck Chicago
  • The Art Institue of Chicago
  • Wrigley Field
  • And more!

Save on admission

Remember, many of these popular Chicago attractions are included with the Go Chicago pass. You could save up to 55% on admission vs gate price.

SkyDeck Chicago

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First up is a visit to SkyDeck Chicago at the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower. Head up to the 1,353-foot high observation deck for 360 views of the city. From SkyDeck, you’ll be able to see famous Chicago sights like the Navy Pier Wheel and the Magnificent Mile, plus four states. This is a great way to start your day off, as a birdseye view is a perfect introduction to Chicago. Check out our guide to SkyDeck Chicago to make the most of your visit. Lean forward and see the streets below, just as Ferris, Cameron, and Sloane did. Or, stand on the Ledge, which has a glass floor. The Ledge was partly inspired by Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, as visitors kept pressing their foreheads against the glass for a view of the city below. Now, you can simply look down for the best, unobstructed view of Chicago. Getting in: Admission to SkyDeck Chicago is included with the Go Chicago pass.

The Art Institute of Chicago

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After visiting the Willis Tower, it’s only a 15-minute walk to the Art Institute of Chicago. Wander around the museum's exhibitions and check out work by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Hopper. Be sure to visit their temporary exhibitions too – they have everything from Manet (until 8 Septemeber 2019) and art from the London Underground (until 5 September 2019.) Read more about what’s new at the Art Institute of Chicago to help plan your visit. For the Ferris Bueller experience, put yourself in Cameron’s shoes as you gaze into the faces of George Seurat’s A Sunday on La Grande Jatte. Then, see Marc Chagall’s America Windows, in front of which Ferris and Sloane had a moment together. Getting in: Admission to The Art Institute of Chicago is included with the Go Chicago pass.

Wrigley Field

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Check ahead of time to see whether the Chicago Cubs are playing at Wrigley Field during your visit for an authentic Ferris Bueller experience. Read our helpful guide on how to get Chicago Cubs tickets before you go! If not, you could instead take a behind-the-scenes tour of Wrigley Stadium. You’ll tour some exclusive areas, including the field, dugout, visitor’s clubhouse, and press box. The tour will last approximately 75-90 minutes and your guide will tell you everything you need to know about the famous stadium. Getting in: Admission to the Wrigley Field Stadium Tour is not included with the Go Chicago pass and tickets must be purchased separately.

Chicago sights

While exploring Chicago, keep an eye out for other famous locations from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, including...

  • Chicago Mercantile Exchange
  • Daley Plaza
  • 22 West Schiller Street

See the Chicago Mercantile Exchange where they watch the trading pit in action. Stroll down Daley Plaza, where Ferris joined the Von Steuben Day Parade. And although the restaurant they go to for lunch doesn’t exist, you can see the exterior at 22 West Schiller Street.

In summary

We hope this guide has helped you plan your very own Ferris Bueller-inspired Chicago day off. Remember, many of these popular Chicago attractions are included with the Go Chicago pass. You could save up to 55% on admission vs gate price.

Share your trip with us

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and share your adventure with us. Tag us at @GoCity and use #GoCityPass on your travel photos to keep us up to date with your vacation!

Seren Morris
Go City Travel Expert

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