Architecture & History Guided Tour along the Chicago Riverwalk

Overview

Available languages

English

2 hours

Mobile ticket

Learn the history that makes the Chicago River and its recently updated Riverwalk historically unique.

Chicago is home to one of the world’s most recognizable and celebrated skylines and the Riverwalk’s intimate vantage provides an ideal perspective from which to learn and appreciate its incredible buildings.Discover Chicago's Rich History and Iconic Architecture

Experience the vibrant tapestry of Chicago’s past and present with our Chicago Riverwalk Tour. Perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and curious visitors, this 2-hour guided tour uncovers fascinating stories and architectural marvels that define the Windy City.

Additional Info

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

Guided 2 Hour Walk Along Chicago's Riverwalk

Entertaining and Instgrammable Walk in Chicago's Riverfront

Professional, Local Tour Guide

Gratuities

What To Expect

Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago River, still a hub of trade and commerce as it has been since the late 1700’s, has evolved into a bustling and beautiful destination of celebration

20 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Battle Of Fort Dearborn

Step back in time and explore the grounds where Chicago's military past comes to life.

20 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Options

Architecture & History Guided Tour along the Chicago Riverwalk

Reviews

5.00

12 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Great tour!
Roseanne T,
Sep 11, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Lots of Chicago history & architectural details. Very informative. Highly recommend. Our guide, Kathryn, was terrific!
The Right Way to See the Riverwalk
S5332TLtrevorc,
Mar 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This was my second time in Chicago and my millionth (not really) time using Tours By Foot. When I first visited Chicago I was so tight on time that I couldn't factor in taking any tours and boy did I miss it because you realize how much you miss when you take a tour! The amount of detail the guide needed to know is just spectacular, she also fielded my dozens of questions like a champion! If you want to learn the history of this section of the city, you absolutely must not hesitate, book this tour!!
Thanks to Mike for the Tour!
BeccaG599,
Feb 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This was my husband's first trip to Chicago, so we booked several tours with Tours By Foot (this is our go to when traveling.) The Riverwalk tour was a great way to learn a lot about Chicago's history. Mike was our guide and he was exceptionally knowledgeable - he was able to answer every question and more and we really enjoyed his passion and love of the city.
Riverwalk tour in Chicago
jaysY7114ZE,
Feb 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I'm usually not a big city kinda guy, but really enjoyed learning about the city of Chicago on the Riverwalk tour. We spent several days in Chicago and took a couple of their tours - enjoyed every one of them. Mike was our guide and impressed us with his knowledge and was a lot of fun. We also took the Ghost Tour and went back for their Winter tour on a later trip to the city. Love these tours!
Great way to start our time in Chicago
matthewbE3097LU,
Nov 29, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Our family of 5 were the only ones signed up but our guide, Mike Wilensky, still gave us a fantastic tour. He adapted the tour to avoid closures along the river walk and was great interacting with all of us, including our kids. He was knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. Even brought visual aids to illustrate many of his talking points. I would highly recommend Tours by Foot and especially Mike.
A great overview of Chicago history and buildings
SFVacationer,
Nov 16, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Mike is a great guide. He was knowledgable and personable and was a wonderful story-teller. He also engaged us in asking questions and sharing our thoughts on various aspects of the tour, which made us feel welcomed and involved. I highly recommend Mike.
A very entertaining tour
597nazymk,
Nov 15, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Very entertaining tour. In 2 hours we went around a piece of town, but every building, every bridge of this section had its own interesting rich history. Our guide was Bruce Pilkenton, a very well-liked man who could hook and hold the attention of the group, and prepared creatively for the hike, bringing with him unique images from the last century of buildings and streets. He was even our photographer at times. The price of the tour is generally ridiculous, I would pay 3 times more )
Enjoyable and Informative
200ashokg,
Oct 18, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Such a delightful tour with Andy! He made the history entertaining and kept everyone engaged. The Riverwalk is breathtaking, and he even shared tips for other great spots to visit afterward. I highly recommend this tour for a fun way to see Chicago!
Mike was a fantastic tour guide!
davidcO5655GG,
Oct 16, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Mike was a fantastic tour guide! As a long time resident of Chicago, he knew the city like the back of his hand, and had an encyclopedic knowledge of the city and its history. He was also great at asking questions, listening, and coming up with relevant stories on the fly. It was the highlight of my trip!
History and Beauty Combined
Daydream09759515365,
Oct 16, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
What a great experience on the Riverwalk tour! The guide from Tours by Foot made history entertaining and engaging. The beautiful scenery added to the fun, making it a must-do for anyone visiting Chicago!