Chicago Architecture River Cruise
Overview
Available languages
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.
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 To Expect
Chicago River
Cruise takes place on the Chicago River.
Chicago Skyline
Enjoy an amazing view of the city's skyline.
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
Options
Spanish Tour from Michigan Ave
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes: Experience Chicago's world-renowned architecture and engineering on this classic cruise with live Spanish narration.
Starting point:
401 North Michigan, 401 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Classic Tour from Navy Pier
Duration: 1 hour: Enjoy the spectacular views on this convenient cruise as you listen to the guide highlight Chicago’s famous architecture.
Starting point:
124 N Streeter Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Signature Tour Michigan Ave
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes: Experience Chicago's world-renowned architecture and engineering on this classic 75-minute cruise with live narration.
Starting point:
401 North Michigan, 401 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Deep Dive Tour from Navy Pier
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes: Discover Chicago's architectural marvels and engineering feats on this spectacular extended cruise featuring an expert guide.
Starting point:
124 N Streeter Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Signature Tour From Navy Pier
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes: Experience Chicago's world-renowned architecture and engineering on this classic 75-minute cruise with live narration.
Starting point:
124 N Streeter Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Reviews
15,799 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amazeballs
asC623KQ,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide was so knowledgeable and personally involved and vested in the architecture of the city. His presentation was not just memorized. Super fun doing the tour when the river was dyed green!
Must do experience
Sara B,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This is a wonderful tour for all ages. The views are like no other and the architecture knowledge of the tour guide is top notch. It gave you a better sense of the city’s layout. Our children were equally as entertained as the adults.
Hortific
Sightsee39385256739,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00Absolutely terrible experience The boat was completely open and not as advertised, with huge gaps letting rain pour in. We were taken out in thunder and lightning and left freezing, soaked, and miserable in below-zero temperatures. It felt unsafe and badly managed. Boarding and getting off the boat was chaotic and slippery, which felt like a serious safety risk. We were left standing in disgusting conditions with no proper shelter. The seating was just plastic fold-up chairs instead of proper fixed seats like other city boat tours we’ve experienced. To make things worse, the speaker system was broken, so the commentary was muffled and impossible to understand. This was not a pleasure trip — it was uncomfortable, stressful, and poorly organised from start to finish. Very disappointing and not worth the money
I have taken this tour...
Jennifer D,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I have taken this tour twice now and everytime I learn something new. Plus it's a beautiful way to see Chicago from the river.
Amazing experience
Sean M,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazingly entertaining and informative. Worth every penny and can’t recommend more.
St Pattys Day architecture cruise- recommend 💚
Kelli O,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour guide! It was so cool with the green river…… Go- if you get a chance and are here when they dye the river!
A wonderful experience!
Shiva A,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our guide Sam was the absolute amazing. He has a great communication skill. He informed us about the history of Chicago, the buildings, the architecture and shared his love for the city with us.
Chicago’s Unpredictable Weather
Tom C,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Chicago weather can be very unpredictable so be sure to dress warm in the Winter and Spring months. The bottom deck was comfortable.
St Patrick’s day cruise
KimMandrell,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Ashley was informative and interesting. The snow made it cold but it was great to see the river dyed green for the holiday
Good time even alone
Carie E,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Really neat tour and glad there were warm drinks available since it started snowing on us. I was traveling alone and this was a good activity
From US$39.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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Operated by Shoreline Sightseeing