Location Transport

for first time tourists, what would be the best tour in chicago. LA and san francisco?

I've seen a lot of tours and am now confused as to which tour group is best. am referring to a guided bus or shuttle tour, not the narrated/recorded one, with lots of opportunities for picture taking. However, I wouldnt want the hassle of taking public transport as I cannot afford to get lost given my limited time there

Public Comments

1. You don't say how long you have in each place but, assuming it's more than 1 day per city, with a decent guidebook in hand (check out Lonely Planet's range) I would recommend walking around LA & Chicago yourself. The main touristy places in each are quite compact and the locals are friendly if you're unsure which way to go. However, I do recommend that you take the Architecture boat trip in Chicago. It goes from by the bridge near to the Intercontinental Hotel but you'll almost certainly have to book in advance. I can't remember their name but they're mentioned in the Lonely Planet guidebooks. You sit wherever there's a space so be warned that people start to queue up early. Sit on the left (as you're facing the front), if you can. The company that operates from Fisherman's Wharf in San Fran run good tours. I can't remember their name either but I used them to go out to Sonama (wine tasting), down to Carmel & Monterey and to Muir Woods & Sausilito. They also offer tours of San Fran that would probably have been reasonably priced if I hadn't already walked most of it.