Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Overview

Available languages

English

Spanish

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.

1 hour • Admission Not Applicable

Chicago Skyline

Enjoy an amazing view of the city's skyline.

Admission Not Applicable

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

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

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

Reviews

4.84

16,035 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

14471

1032

231

202

Great way to see the beautiful skyline and buildings of downtown
Patricia G,May 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The architecture River tour was great! Sam was our docent/narrator, and he was fabulous. So many interesting facts to know and you really get to see the city skyline.
Great Chicago architecture cruise — small group made it feel personal
alexgF3979IF,May 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00
Excellent service and product quality. The user experience is intuitive and well-designed. Would recommend to colleagues. The group size on our tour was small, which made it feel relaxed and personal — easy to hear the guide and ask questions.
Great information about...
Alexa C,May 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Great information about history and architecture, really great tour with Josh. Sunset was beautiful!
Great Experience
Cecilia M,May 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
We had a beautiful time. The tour guy was knowledgeable and humorous, so that added to the enjoyment of the trip. Only thing I’d recommend is take a light jacket/throw blanket if you’re going on the evening tour. Highly recommend!
Evening Tour
Andrew S,May 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
We took the late evening tour and the city lights in the Chicago Skyline at the end of the tour was magical. Our tour guide Brian was great, informative, and funny. It was a cool experience to learn about the history of Chicago and the buildings.
Great option!
Tyler E,May 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Great experience! They are extremely professional and made sure we had a great time. The tour guide was funny and informative. Easy to find and quick to help, definitely recommend!
Architecture boat trip
Kim R,May 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Traveling with a senior parent who doesn't move well. They were very accommodating and willing to help. Would do it again.
It has interesting crime history. I would have liked to have seen more preserved renditions of the sites of the crimes.
Passport88174,May 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00
Great host. Few actual sites.
Great afternoon tour!
Tracey G,May 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
It was neat to hear about the different buildings and the eras they were built in. Most of the buildings on the tour have a story. The bathrooms on the boat were nicer than expected!
It was great! Easy to...
Heike S,May 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
It was great! Easy to understand and hear the guide……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….