Private tour in Chicago Johanna W
5.0
(9) reviews
4 hours
1
4 hours
1
Johanna W.
5.0
Guide rating
69
Reviews
Tours delivered
27 hrs
Avg. response time
Hi, my name is Johanna. I was born in the U. S. to Polish immigrants, and they've been flying me back and forth to the motherland since I was barely out of diapers. That ingrained a strong wanderlust in me that has never gone away. I've globe-trotted all around and met countless amazing people during my travels. Allow me to help make your memories as awesome as mine have been. I've lived in Chicago for 28 years, so it's safe to say that I am a Chicago native, and I know a thing or two about this city I call home. My interests are many, as are my jobs. I teach Polish folk dancing, cater pierogi, work at a brewery, participate in a yearly lowrider show and of course, work as a tour guide. . . the list goes on. I also love music, dance and enjoy a great meal (who doesn't). That being said, I can customize a tour that'll satisfy and entertain any type of individual. Let's go to breweries, dance to swing music, visit unique architectural sites, learn a little about Chicago history, and try out some amazing local restaurants as well as local fast food joints (Chicago-style hot dog or deep dish pizza, anyone?). Now, let's have some fun and explore! I have worked as a private guide in Chicago for five years. Although I mostly work with smaller groups, I can accommodate larger groups. If you are interested in booking for a larger group, I can meet you and guide you in your vehicle.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Johanna W.
Chicago is a city of immigrants. My parents belong to this Chicago story as do countless others. We'll learn about the role Polish immigrants had on this city by viewing important historical sites, such as impressive basilicas built brick-by-brick over the span of decades. Inside we'll take in the amazing stained glass windows and murals (the largest of which is 3, 100 sq. ft) that were recently carefully restored We'll also see an intricate replica of Wit Stwosz inside of a unique, all-wooden, baroque style church. You don't have to be a practicing Catholic in order to appreciate all of the beauty these places have to offer. In between history lessons we'll sample Polish cuisine and check out some ultra-divey Polish bars. Perhaps the more adventurous tourist will try fried liver, pickle soup, or meat jello at one of my favorite secret watering holes. Lastly, we'll have a cheap beer or sandwich in the Back of the Yards at 98-year-old Wanda's bar. Na Zdrowie!
Johanna is an exceptional person and tour guide. She is delightful; warm, caring, and energetic personality. She takes care in the development of itineraries as well as incorporating guest wishes to the extent possible. In addition, Johanna navigates traffic well and can actually find parking spaces in a busy city situation such as Chicago.I thoroughly enjoyed and valued the day spent with her. It will remain in my memory. Thank you, Johanna. Joann T.
Johanna was fantastic! She knows a lot about the city and shared so much information with us. She was extremely polite with a happy optimistic personality. She was punctual And fun. I highly recommend her as a tourist guide.
We had a fabulous time touring with Johanna. She tailored everything to meet our desires including churches, a polish market, Podhalanka (the chillest restaurant), and a few bars! We never felt rushed and were able to enjoy ourselves thoroughly.
I can't recommend this tour and Johanna as a guide enough! My mom was born and raised in the Polish neighborhood (Wicker Park/Bucktown) in the '40's and '50's and wanted to see "home" again. At 82, she couldn't do a walking tour and this was the perfect solution. I learned so much about my mom's childhood and my Polish heritage! Johanna went above and beyond for us. She is an invaluable resource of the history of the Polish community and Chicago. Book this tour ASAP!!!
Amazing tour with such a lovely person. Johanna really makes you feel like you are one of the family right away. She listened to exactly what we wanted and provided a great tour showing the key sites and lots of things off the beaten track we would never have found by ourselves. Thank you so much, Johanna, for the amazing experience and we will see you next time we are in Chicago.
Johanna's tour of Chicago's Polish neighborhoods and landmarks greatly exceeded our expectations. From Polish migration history to churches to restaurants, Johanna knows her turf. Johanna's confidence, humor and genuine warmth set an ideal tone for the our 3-day Chicago visit. By day's end we thought of her more as a friend, than tour guide. A very memorable day!
Together with you, I will design an itinerary/route to your liking. I will offer a multitude of options that we can patch together to form the perfect tour for you. Some of which include: *two very impressive Catholic Churches that are a must-see for believers and non-believers alike *exploring historic Polish neighborhoods including Avondale, Back-of-the-Yards, and Bucktown. *Visiting some very divey watering holes, including a special bar that is still tended to by a feisty 98-year-old bartender. She lived across from the Chicago stockyards almost her whole life and has some unbelievable stories to tell if you catch her in a good mood. *Sampling some Polish dishes and trying my very own pierogi Polish dumplings (the best in Chicago). *Stopping over at the Polish Cultural Museum to look at traditional costumes, artwork, and the Paderewski Room The transportation will be via my car.
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Transportation by private vehicle (Mitsubishi Galant)
Chicago, IL, USA
Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide: St. Hyacinth Basilica 3636 W Wolfram St, Chicago, IL 60618
Polish
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If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
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