10 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Chicago: Explore with Van Rentals

Chicago’s famous sights are worth seeing — but the city’s real character often hides just off the beaten path. With a van rental, your group can chase down these lesser-known gems on your own schedule. Here are ten worth the detour.

The ten gems

The 606 Trail (an elevated park-and-path perfect for a stroll or a bike ride); Garfield Park Conservatory (one of the largest conservatories in the country); Promontory Point (lakefront views away from the crowds); the Charnley-Persky House Museum (a landmark of early modern architecture); Winnemac Park (a quiet neighborhood green space); The Magic Parlour (an intimate close-up magic show); The Violet Hour (a hidden speakeasy-style cocktail bar); the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum (Chicago social history); Ping Tom Memorial Park (a riverside park in Chinatown); and the Museum of Surgical Science (as fascinating as it is unusual).

Why a van makes it easy

These spots are spread across the city, so hopping between them by rideshare gets expensive and slow. One van keeps your whole group together, on your own itinerary, with room for everyone — and you decide where to linger.

Good to know

Finding a van in Chicago is simple, our vans suit families and groups alike, and you’re free to customize your route. Prefer a first-class ride? Our luxury 10-passenger Road Cruiser or a 15-seater Sprinter make the day even better.

Which van should you pick?

For a first-class day out, the 10-passenger Mercedes-Benz Road Cruiser or the 15-passenger Sprinter travel in style. Want to keep it budget-friendly? The 15-passenger Ford Transit does the job. Browse the full fleet.