Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Overview

Available languages

English

Spanish

1 hour 15 minutes

Mobile ticket

Experience the stunning beauty of Chicago on a captivating cruise along the historic Chicago River. This architectural tour takes you down the main branch of the river, up the north branch to the East Bank Club, and then south past the iconic Willis Tower (Sears Tower) to the historic Old Post Office Building.

Marvel at the magnificent city skyline as you pass by over 40 notable buildings, including:

John Hancock Center: An iconic skyscraper that defines the Chicago skyline.

Wrigley Building: Known for its distinctive white facade and clock tower.

As you sail, an expert architecture guide will provide fascinating insights into the distinctive designs and history of these architectural marvels. Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time, this tour offers a unique perspective on one of the world's most beautiful cities.

Sit back, relax, and let the architectural wonders of Chicago unfold before your eyes.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All boats have full restrooms and a full bar.

Some boats are single deck vessels, the type of vessel you are placed on cannot be guaranteed.

Wheelchairs or other walking assistance equipment are not provided.

Beginning November 11, 2024 through April 2025, tours will be 60 minutes in length.

Cruises are dog-friendly.

Tours can be rescheduled through Viator 24 hours prior to the departure dates.

Wheelchair accessible from Navy Pier dock only.

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

Pet-friendly

Restroom on board

Live expert commentary on board

Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River

Drinks (available for purchase)

WiFi on board

What To Expect

Chicago River

Cruise takes place on the Chicago River.

1 hour 15 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Chicago Skyline

Enjoy an amazing view of the city's skyline.

Admission Not Applicable

Options

+ Add-On: Skyline Lake Cruise

After your Architecture Tour,: enjoy a separate 45 minute Skyline Lake Cruise. You’ll select your lake cruise time at our ticket booth.
Starting point:
124 N Streeter Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

Spanish Tour from Navy Pier

Starting point:
124 N Streeter Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

From Michigan Ave

Starting point:
401 North Michigan, 401 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

From Navy Pier

Starting point:
124 N Streeter Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

Spanish Tour from Michigan Ave

Starting point:
401 North Michigan, 401 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

Reviews

4.84

15,701 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

14169

1014

230

194

Interesting and Fun
Carol B,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00
Interesting to learn the history and unique architectural aspects of the tall buildings along the Chicago River. Made is all sick to hear about the tRump building.
My guide I think his name was victor was incredibly knowledgeable I enjoyed his humor as well
Ryan C,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Completely recommend this activity to anyone visiting the Chicago area I was skeptical about the architecture aspect but it was so cool learning about the history on top of seeing the magnitude of these astounding testimonies to human achievement
Very informative and...
Fran K,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Very informative and interesting trip with Kevin's wealth of knowledge of the chicago skyline. Highly recommended
Don't miss this Architectural and Historical river cruise!
Diane G,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
The tour was very interesting, not only from an architectural viewpoint, but also the tidbits of history provided by our EXCELLENT guide. I don't recall her name, but she was outstanding in both her knowledge and her delivery. We learned a great deal from her in her very special and charming presentation.
10/10 would reccomend
carmenaG3015ZS,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Would definitely recommend, worth it! We went right before sunset and got to see the skyline both in the light and in the dark. Both were so cool to see! Great info, delivered in a fun way.
River trip
Brendan C,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00
Very good service, we had a wheelchair user with us and we found the staff very helpful. The guide was very entertaining
Very good tour guide and...
Haijuan R,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Very good tour guide and great architecture view. I had wonderful time and experience with my son. The tour is very professional.
Just great!
Lester G,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Our guide was very knowledgeable and we could hear him easily and clearly. We learned a lot about Chi.
Brilliant
SuzieQBalu,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We did a great tour with Jim on the architecture river tour. He had a great passion and knowledge of the variety of high-rise buildings. It was educational and engaging with a bit of humour thrown in.
Learning experience!
willfW6087OX,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Great tour. Very knowledgeable nararator. Would definitely recommend this architectural tour of Chicago. Highly Beautiful!