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This 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off'-inspired tour of downtown Chicago sounds like so much fun

Hey Siri, play "Twist and Shout!"

Written by
Mark Peikert
Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Photo: Courtesy of Paramount Pictures | Ferris Bueller's Day Off
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“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

Hate to break it to you, but Ferris Bueller broke the fourth wall to implore us to go out and live 40 years ago, which means he's nearing retirement and we're... well, we're headed to downtown to celebrate his joie de vivre during a special anniversary walking tour taking place on June 11—the exact date that Ferris Bueller’s Day Off premiered in theaters in 1986.

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The limited-time experience will take participants to some of the John Hughes film’s most memorable Chicago locations, guided by a local actor who will share behind-the-scenes stories, trivia and plenty of references to one of the city’s most beloved cinematic love letters.

Scheduled stops will include many of the iconic sites featured in the film, including the steps of the Art Institute of Chicago, Daley Plaza, the downtown parade route where Ferris commandeered a float for his unforgettable rendition of “Twist and Shout,” the parking garage tied to the fate of Cameron’s father’s Ferrari and the Willis Tower (known as the Sears Tower when the movie was filmed back during Reagan's presidency).

Along the way, attendees can test their knowledge with Ferris-themed trivia contests, compete for prizes and score discounted Chicago-style hot dogs from Relish. Organizers also promise plenty of photo opportunities at the movie’s most recognizable backdrops.

Released in 1986, Ferris Bueller's Day Off remains one of the definitive Chicago movies, showcasing everything from downtown architecture and museums to neighborhood streets and baseball fandom. Four decades later, its portrait of a perfect day in the city still resonates with locals and visitors alike.

Whether you're a longtime fan who knows the script by heart or just looking for a new way to explore downtown, this anniversary celebration offers a chance to spend an afternoon seeing Chicago through Ferris’s eyes, all without having to fake a sick day. Or actually, why not call in sick and spend the day outside? It worked out great for him, after all.

For more information and to buy tickets, click here.

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