Local Insider Tips for Chicago HoHo

Insider Tips (expanded)

Local knowledge speeds up your day and makes it feel more authentic — use these hacks to get more from the HoHo.

Smart boarding & seating

• Board at eastern or less popular stops to get seats, especially upper deck seats with better views.
• If you want a particular seat, watch the schedule and arrive 5–10 minutes early.

Time-saving local hacks

• Use the HoHo as a shuttle between neighborhoods (e.g., River North to Lincoln Park) rather than walking long distances.
• Ask drivers for approximate reboarding windows; they often know when buses cluster and when gaps occur.

Avoiding tourist traps

• Seek neighborhood bakeries or pubs for meals instead of tourist-strip restaurants.
• For photos, arrive early at the Riverwalk to avoid tour group clustering.

Local tip: Midday on weekdays tends to be quieter at popular stops like Millennium Park.