Chicago River Architecture Tour

Discover the captivating, visual art of Chicago’s legendary architecture on a comprehensive 90-minute tour of the Chicago River. Be inspired by the 130-year design legacy and learn why it’s important today.

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Wendella - Boats set sail from Wendella’s docks located at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge (DuSable Bridge), right by the Wrigley Building.
  • Centennial Fountain And Water Arc - Established in 1989 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, which famously reversed…
What's Included
  • Indoor and outdoor seating available (indoor is climate controlled)
  • Narrated tour on board by professionally trained tour guide
  • Expert Local Guide
  • On-board restrooms
What's Not Included
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

Be fascinated by Chicago’s iconic architecture, a magnificent example of visual art and the remarkable architects behind this dynamic and ever-evolving treasure. On this extensive 90-minute tour, you’ll voyage through the city’s core covering all three branches of the Chicago River. Your professionally trained architectural tour guide will narrate more…

Location
400 N Michigan Ave
North Michigan Avenue
Arrive at 400 N Michigan Avenue 30 minutes before your departure and you will be directed to your boarding dock. Please allow yourself plenty of time to arrive if driving. We do not have parking. It is recommend that you book parking in advance.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.7
(7496 Ratings)
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Iliana_f
May 8, 2025
Our guide Jack was great... - Our guide Jack was great very knowledgeable and kept the history with all the facts very interesting.
Review provided by Viator
Zach_b
May 8, 2025
great fun for the family - bring a jacket it can get windy and when you tuck behind some buildings you loose the sun. this is a very minor issue
Review provided by Viator
Theresa_h
May 8, 2025
Great trip! - Fun, informative and relaxing. Our guide gave insight into the various buildings, architecture styles and a history of the city. Her various jokes kept everyone’s interest and the experience was light hearted and fun.
Review provided by Viator
Glory_s
May 8, 2025
This was an amazing... - This was an amazing experience. The history behind the buildings was incredible and the host did well telling about the city. The view of the city and Lake Michigan was so cool. The boat had a lower deck that we did go to when we got too cold. They have a bathroom and a bar which was great. It was very enjoyable and a little chilly with the wind.
Review provided by Viator
Cruiser748247
May 8, 2025
Experiencing Chicago's Prominent Skyline Through A Native's Eyes - Our architecture tour was led by Kelly M, a native from Chicago, who has a passion for architecture. She was a wonderful docent who provided many interesting facts on the buildings and the architects/firms that designed them. We were able to see and hear about many of the famous buildings that dot the Chicago skyline. As outsiders to Chicago, we appreciated both her warmth as well as her enthusiasm for the city. We learned a lot from her and highly recommend this tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Z37lftimc
May 7, 2025
Great experience! - The narrator was fabulous. She gave a lot of information about the sites. The views were amazing. Great experience! Perfect location!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sandra_m
May 7, 2025
Unexpected jewel - Absolutely wonderful. Not a boring minute during our 90 min tour. Thought at best it would be mildly interesting but it was lots More than that and our guide-Bob-was very knowledgeable and entertaining
Review provided by Viator
Karen_k
May 7, 2025
Great activity as a break from a conference - So good to be outdoors on the water after a long day of learning. Very knowledgeable tour guide...take the last tour...the lights on the buildings are illuminated!
Review provided by Viator
Carey_k
May 7, 2025
A must when visiting Chicago - Our tour guide Scott was very funny and knowledgeable! We were lucky to have a nice sunny day as well so sitting outside was a very pleasant experience
Review provided by Viator
Richard_r
May 7, 2025
Scotty D. Was informative... - Scotty D. Was informative and very entertaining. Great guide!! We would recommend this tour to everyone interested in learning more about Chicago.
Review provided by Viator
From $45
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).