Sip happens: Chicago’s Tea Trolley is the sweetest ride in town

Chicago has always been a city that loves a good tour. Architecture cruises glide down the river, double-decker buses circle the skyline and food tours celebrate every deep-dish slice. But one of the city’s most charming sightseeing experiences invites guests to slow down, sip, and enjoy the ride with a teacup in hand.

Welcome aboard Tea Around Town Chicago, a whimsical afternoon tea experience that transforms a double-decker bus into a rolling tea room traveling through the heart of the Windy City.

A Moving Tea Party Through the Skyline

Operated by TopView Sightseeing, Tea Around Town blends classic afternoon tea tradition with Chicago sightseeing. Guests board a bright pink, flower-filled double-decker bus designed to feel like a cozy lounge on wheels, complete with table service and live entertainment.

As the bus glides through downtown, passengers enjoy sweeping views of Chicago landmarks including Millennium Park, Navy Pier and the Magnificent Mile while sipping curated teas and sampling sweet and savory bites.

Think of it as part sightseeing tour, part afternoon tea, and part Instagram dream.

What the Experience Is Like

Inside, the bus feels more boutique hotel than city transport. Floral décor, plush seating, and a three-tiered tea service create a “Bridgerton-meets-Chicago” vibe that’s playful, romantic and ideal for celebrations.

Guests are served:

• A selection of premium teas
• Freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam
• Savory sandwiches and bites
• Pastries and sweet treats

Live entertainment adds to the experience, turning the ride into a moving tea party rather than a traditional tour.

Tour Length, Departure Point & Logistics

Here are the details readers always want to know:

Duration:
About 90 minutes total (approximately 75 minutes touring and 15 minutes boarding/disembarking).

Departure location:
200 E. Randolph Street near the Aon Center in downtown Chicago.

Arrival tip:
Guests are asked to arrive at least 15 minutes early because the tour departs promptly.

The tour begins and ends at the same location, making it easy to plan dinner or shopping afterward.

Ticket Pricing & Where to Book

Typical pricing:

• Classic tea experience tickets generally start around $69 per adult (pricing may vary by date and package).

Where to buy tickets:

• Official booking site:
  Book Tea Around Town Chicago
• Tourism listing:
  View listing on Choose Chicago

Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekends and special occasions.

Why It’s Becoming a Go-To Chicago Experience

Afternoon tea has long been a beloved tradition in Chicago hotels, but Tea Around Town adds a playful twist by putting the tea room on wheels.

It’s an experience that appeals to:

• Visitors looking for something unique beyond standard tours
• Locals celebrating birthdays, bridal showers, or girls’ day out
• Couples seeking a romantic daytime date
• Anyone who wants to see the city in a slower, sweeter way

In a city known for its bold architecture and bustling streets, Tea Around Town offers a rare invitation to sit back, sip slowly, and watch Chicago roll by.

You may also like these Chicago Star articles:

         • Exciting cultural stadium plan reimagines downtown Chicago

         • The magic returns: First details on HBO’s Harry Potter reboot

         • Chicago film visionary Michael Kutza scores another global honor