Chicago: Neighborhood Pizza Bus Tour & Historic Pizzerias

Summary

Chicago pizza tour by bus tasting deep dish thin crust coal-fired pies with local guide

You’ll ride through Chicago’s neighborhoods with a local guide, tasting everything from classic deep dish at Pizano’s to caramelized-crust pies at Pequod’s and coal-fired slices near United Center. Expect stories, laughs, and a full stomach as you discover why pizza means so much here — plus bus transport and four generous slices included.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if Chicago pizza is really that different? I did too — so I signed up for this neighborhood pizza tour, hoping to finally settle the debate (at least in my own head). We kicked things off at Pizano’s, where our guide Mike told us about the family’s ties to the original deep dish. The place smelled like warm dough and tomato sauce before we even walked in. I tried not to burn my mouth on the first slice, but… well, let’s just say patience isn’t my strong suit when cheese is involved.

After that, we hopped back on the bus — which was honestly more comfortable than I expected — and headed over to Flo & Santo’s near Grant Park. They do this Polish-Italian fusion thing that sounds odd but actually works. Mike explained how the thin crust “tavern style” became a Chicago staple because it’s easy to share over beers. The owner waved at us from behind the counter; I think she recognized Mike from all his tours. The crust had this crackly edge that made me want another slice right away.

Pequod’s in Lincoln Park was next, famous for its caramelized cheese crust (I still think about that bite). The air outside smelled like rain on pavement — classic Chicago spring — but inside it was all melted cheese and chatter. By the time we got to Coalfire near United Center, I was already full but somehow made room for their coal-forged pie. Mike joked about how these ovens run hotter than most summer days here. He also gave us tips on how locals judge a good slice (hint: it’s not just about toppings).

I didn’t expect Piece Pizza to be such a hit — New Haven style in Chicago? But people on our bus were raving about it. Someone tried to compare it to New York slices and got booed (all in good fun). By then we’d seen Wrigleyville out the window, Cubs flags everywhere, and I realized this city really does take its pizza seriously. The tour ended with everyone debating their favorite stop; honestly, I still can’t pick one.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Chicago neighborhood pizza tasting tour

• Visit Pizano's Pizza deep dish
• Eat thin crust at Flo & Santo's
• Sample burnt cheese crust at Pequod's
• Savor coal forged pies at Coalfire West Town
• Try pizza at Coalfire Southport near Cubs stadium
• Enjoy New Haven style pies at Piece Pizza

Top questions

How long is the Chicago pizza tour by bus?

The tour lasts a few hours and covers several neighborhoods including Lincoln Park and Wrigleyville.

Is transportation included in the Chicago neighborhood pizza tour?

Yes, transport by bus between pizzerias is included in your booking.

Do you get to try different styles of pizza on this tour?

Yes, you’ll sample deep dish, tavern-style thin crust, coal-fired pies, and New Haven style pizza.

Are kids allowed on the Chicago pizza tour?

Children under 6 are free but you need to notify the operator so they can save a seat.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?

The tour runs in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for Chicago weather.

How many slices of pizza are included?

You’ll get four slices of pizza during the tour.

Is there a local guide on this Chicago pizza tour?

Yes, a knowledgeable local guide leads each group and shares stories along the way.

What’s included

Your day includes guided transport by comfortable bus through several Chicago neighborhoods, four distinct slices of pizza from historic or beloved pizzerias (deep dish, thin crust tavern-style, coal-fired), plus stories from your local guide as you travel between stops.