Chicago for Chicagoans was started in 2016 by Patti Swanson. Read more about who's behind the curtain.

The mission of Chicago for Chicagoans is simple: to educate residents about the places they inhabit, creating lifelong bonds and a deeper understanding between people and their spaces. Chicago for Chicagoans believes in accessibility of information, and conducts programming on a "pay-what-you-can" basis. Everyone deserves opportunities to learn about their surroundings, no matter what their financial situation may be! 

Chicago for Chicagoans strives to form a collaborative and inclusive learning endeavor by locals, for locals. By working with city tour guides, passionate community advocates, local businesses & nonprofit organizations, friendly historians, and other neighborhood correspondents, Chicago for Chicagoans aims to create events that are integrated with, and in the service of, the areas they explore. 

Finally, Chicago for Chicagoans seeks to create a community among its participants. Group meals and outings are a key part of our events, encouraging conversation, connection, and collaboration among our group of urban explorers. Chicago for Chicagoans is incorporated as a nonprofit in the State of Illinois, and is a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Tour photography by Loren Rosewski.