Chicago History and Architecture Walking Tour with Boat Cruise

Overview

Available languages

English

3 hours 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Explore the heart of the Windy City Beginning at Millennium Park, home to the world-famous Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), and stroll through lush gardens and striking public art. Uncover hidden gems in the Chicago Pedway, then emerge onto the scenic Chicago Riverwalk for sweeping skyline views.

Continue along the Magnificent Mile, where you’ll admire architectural icons like the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower before crossing the historic Michigan Avenue Bridge. Along the way, learn fascinating stories about the Great Chicago Fire and even sample a classic local savory treat (optional purchase). Visit the impressive Starbucks Reserve Roastery, celebrating flavors as rich as Chicago’s history.

To finish your adventure, step aboard the Shoreline Architecture Cruise for a narrated boat tour, where you’ll see more than 40 iconic Chicago landmarks—from hidden architectural details to the city’s most famous monuments—while enjoying breathtaking skyline views from the water.

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

Narrated Walking Tour of Chicago

Chicago Boat Cruise (Admission Included)

Points of Interest Such as Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) and Millennium park

Gratuities (Optional)

What To Expect

Cloud Gate

Cloud Gate, also known as "The Bean," is a public sculpture by artist Anish Kapoor located in Millennium Park in Chicago. Made of polished stainless steel, it reflects the city's skyline and the surrounding park, creating a captivating and interactive visual experience. Since its unveiling in 2006, it has become an iconic symbol of Chicago.

15 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Millennium Park

Millennium Park, located in the heart of Chicago, is a vibrant urban space that features iconic attractions such as Cloud Gate, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and the Crown Fountain. Opened in 2004, the park hosts numerous cultural events, concerts, and art installations, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Its innovative design and stunning landscapes have made it a symbol of the city's commitment to public art and green spaces.

Admission Not Applicable

Options

Chicago History and Architecture Walking Tour with Boat Cruise

Reviews

4.70

10 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

well worth it
michaelcI4711LM,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
info packed tour with a real historical expert (walking tour) . . . learned so much and very gracious guide. highly recommend it to anyone desiring knowledge on the city's skyline and history. boat tour very informative and entertaining as well.
Great Experience
Kenya H,
Sep 21, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Andrew was a great guide. The weather wasn't the best but we still powered through. Got some amazing historical information that I had no idea about. It's just really informative and interesting.
Fantastic Tour
K4773CZchristineb,
Sep 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Andrew's tour was excellent, made even better by his unique historical connection to the city through his own life and ancestry. I particularly loved the walking portion and wish it could have been extended. I felt I gained so much more from his storytelling on foot than I did on the boat tour.
Getting to know Chicago
Maria P,
Jul 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00
Very informative, lots of walking, Andrew is very knowledgeable and polite, will ask you if you need to stop and rest anytime you want
Great tour! Well worth the time and money!
MissyR72,
Jul 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This tour was wonderful. It was the perfect blend of history, architecture, and fun. Andrew was a gem of knowledge!! His family history is incredible and full of generations of Chicago titans in industry. It was intriguing to see how the city of Chicago was built on the brilliant minds of the industiralists and the strong shoulders of the men and women who immigrated there. Finishing with the boat tour was a welcomed respite from the heat. Andrew was very consciencious of making sure we took breaks and stayed cool or hydrated. I liked his flexibility. Know what you want to see- he aims to please! Overall, we had an incredible time!! I highly recommend this tour.
Excellent tour- full of fun facts and history
Melissa R,
Jul 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
What a wonderful, intimate, tour this was. Andrew was a phenomenal guide- full of information, historical interest and personal charm. I learned so much about the city that I had never known before (even after living here for 6 years). My girlfriends were first-timers to Chicago and found his depth of knowledge intriguing. He was so professional and caring- checking in often to make sure the heat wasn't too much for each of us. We had a grand time! Then, the boat tour that finished off our day was a delight (and a welcomed respite from the heat). This tour is worth every penny. Bring your walking shoes and dress appropriately... but get ready to learn, laugh and enjoy!
Walking portion was a...
Kent S,
May 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
3.00
Walking portion was acceptable, guide was knowledgeable but got a little too personal. More focused on his family history than the city. Boat tour was fantastic, but getting checked in was lengthy and confusing as the harbor personnel did not recognize one ticket for both walking and boat tour. Boat tour staff did not know how to check us in. Would recommend boat tour, but buy tickets at Navy Pier. Skip walking portion.
This tour is A MUST!!
pamv697,
May 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Had a great time with Andrew on our tour! We explored downtown chicago, appreciated the city’s architecture and learn so much. I HIGHLY recommend!!
Wonderful
DaraLynn V,
Oct 20, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00
The beautiful weather made our experience so nice, but having a private tour by chance really let us ask questions and see everything at our pace.
Informative history of Chicago industry
sofiamW2277AX,
Aug 24, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
My daughter and I had a wonderful time. Andrew was very knowledgeable and had a deep understanding of the economy and industry history of Chicago. We were hungry and he adjusted his tour so that we could eat at a local place. He also gave good advice about getting around town. Highly recommended!