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.
What To Expect
Chicago River
Cruise takes place on the Chicago River.
Chicago Skyline
Enjoy an amazing view of the city's skyline.
Options
Signature Tour - 75m 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
Deep Dive Tour - 90m 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
Classic Tour - 60m 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
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
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
16,402 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Architecture river cruise
MakingRheum,Jul 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Chose Navy Pier 8:30pm cruise ***from the navy pier (emohasis on navy pier) so that at the end i can catch navy pier fireworks at 10pm on a Saturday summer night. Planning turned out great. Plus weather was great. Cruise itself was very enjoyable and relaxing. Tons of jnfo from guide who had enough humor to balance with all the fun facts. An hour well spent.
Sam S was the Best!!
Dorcas A,Jul 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This cruise was the BEST way to see and learn about the history of Chicago’s iconic architecture and river. Sam S, our cruise dosen, was so knowledgeable and really curated a dynamic and entertaining tour even in the sweltering heat! (Also known as corn sweat…iykyk) Highly recommend this tour it was the highlight of my trip and will definitely come back to do it again!
Great experience
StevenS949,Jul 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fantastic. Nathan was a phenomenal guide.
Great day on the River
O3331YMelizabethw,Jul 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We loved our guide, Elizabeth, she did an amazing job and we learned so much about the beautiful Chicago skyline!
Amazing Experience in Chicago
427yashg,Jul 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I went with my family on a chicago architecture center cruise at sunset and at first I was skeptical because it was honestly on the pricer side, though this was by far the most fun thing we did in Chicago. Even my teenage daughter who is usually really bored of archecticture really liked it. We learnt so much that we would never have understood and our tour guide was so knowledgable and made our entire trip. He was so friendly and did it in 90 degree heat. Thank you so much Dan. J for the 7 PM cruise on 7/2/26!!! Truly the best experience I could have asked for.
I have always wanted to...
Jacob S,Jul 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I have always wanted to take the architecture boat tour of Chicago. I'm glad I booked this tour, as the tour guide (Stephanie) was excellent. Boat was easy to find and was very clean. They have a full bar on board (bought water on a very hot day!) and restrooms. There were places with shade on our vessel, both upstairs and downstairs. I highly recommend the tour!
River Views
Explorer41195365095,Jul 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00By far one of the best ways to see the city of Chicago. The architecture presents stunning views of the different buildings along the river. The tour is very educational as well learning a lot about the history of the city.
Beautiful architecture tour
Beckyjackson77,Jul 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience. Everyone was friendly. Our tour guide was very friendly, knowledgeable and was entertaining.
Excellent
Robert L,Jul 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Awesome experience everything went well no issues would recommend to anyone and everyone it was a amazing time with my family
Architecture Tour at Night
468leannez,Jul 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great Tour. Sam was entertaining and very knowledgeable. Defintely recommend the tour at night.
Related Experiences
Operated by Shoreline Sightseeing