Volunteer to Lead Northside Neighborhood Walking Tour Hostel Guests

Volunteer Walking Tour Guide

We invite you to bring your area of expertise to curate a weekly northside Chicago neighborhood tour. This is a volunteer role for a resident of Chicago or the Chicago area. The guide will meet guests at our hostel in the Loop, then take them on the CTA to the chosen neighborhood and lead the tour. The tour focuses on the area’s culture, murals/public art, and/or food.

The guide will share local history and neighborhood knowledge with guests.

• Curate a weekly walking tour of northside Chicago neighborhoods such as Andersonville, Wrigleyville, Wicker Park, Logan Square, Rogers Park, and more.
• Meet guests at the hostel in the Loop and provide brief orientation.
• Lead the tour, sharing knowledge of neighborhood history, culture, murals, public art, and local food.
• Ensure a positive, engaging experience for international travelers.

The tour/outing is 1.5 to 3 hours long and can be scheduled on Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays, or Sundays. The event will recur weekly or monthly.

• Meet new people from all over the world, including travelers, staff, and fellow volunteers.
• Help bring people together and facilitate cultural exchange.
• Build skills in public speaking, foreign languages, intercultural communication, and more.
• Earn HI USA membership and overnights at HI USA hostels.
• Receive training and a flexible schedule.
• Enjoy having fun while making a difference.

HI USA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, member-based organization that reinvests surpluses back into its hostels and programs. Its mission is to “inspire a deeper understanding of people, places, and cultures for a more tolerant world.”

Minimum qualification:

Resident of Chicago or Chicago area.