BYOB Chicago River Guided History Tour
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Discover the fascinating history of Chicago from a whole new perspective — on the water! This 120-minute Guided History Tour along the Chicago River brings the city’s past to life through captivating stories, iconic landmarks, and little-known facts that shaped the Windy City into what it is today.
• Chicago’s transformation from swamp land to industrial hub to the modern metropolis it is today
• The dramatic story of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and how the city rebuilt stronger than ever
• Tales of Chicago’s most infamous gangsters and Prohibition-era legends
• The groundbreaking 1893 World’s Fair and the inventions it introduced to the world
• The incredible reversal of the Chicago River — its purpose and lasting impact on the city’s future
Step aboard and experience how history, architecture, and innovation flow together on this unforgettable journey through Chicago’s past and present.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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 To Expect
Chicago Riverwalk
The Party Barge is a unique way to cruise the Chicago River and lakefront. The boat features a u-shaped bar, surrounded by bar stools. The boat is equipped with a head (bathroom), charging ports, additional seating at the bow and coolers with ice. All cruises are BYOB, 120 minutes long and depart from the Chicago Riverwalk (between the LaSalle Street and Wells Street bridges).
Battle Of Fort Dearborn
Off the to the south side of the river we will see the site where the first American settlement, Ft Dearborn, once stood.
What‘s Included
Coolers and Ice
Local Knowledgeable Guide
Drinks, but you are welcome to bring any drinks you want (no glass please)
Snacks/food, but you are welcome to bring any onboard
Options
BYOB Chicago River Guided History Tour
Reviews
4 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
I309ZMbens,Jul 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Monica and Avril were excellent tour guides. They were extremely knowledgeable about the history of the city. The tour was lovely and a great way to explore Chicago. An absolute must if you’ve never been on a Chicago riverboat!!
Thanks, Monica and Maria!
46rajeevd,Jun 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a beautiful way to spend a friend’s birthday. Great views and a great time. Monica and Maria were absolutely incredible - kind, fun, and overall ideal captain and co-captain. Will be requesting them for the next time we do a cruise.
Great time
wollenslegel,Jun 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Monica, Kelli, Avril were our helpers on the boat and they were amazing!!! The facts were fun and jokes were added in. The crew made sure we had a great time. Very personal and great people. Highly recommend the trip.
Sunday Funday
David D,May 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Monica was great. So much fun. We went on a two hour tour and she told us lots of things about Chicago. While it was cold we still enjoyed the tour.
Related Experiences
Operated by Chicago Boat Company