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Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

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Overview

Available languages

English

1 hour 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

An authentic Chicago tradition since 1935, this is the tour that started it all. This unique excursion tells the story of more than 200 years of fascinating social, cultural and political history, and explores more than a century of groundbreaking architecture. The journey begins with an up-close perspective of Chicago's internationally-known architecture as seen from the Chicago River. Then venture through the Chicago Lock on to the calm, cool waters of Lake Michigan for expansive views of Chicago's extraordinary 26-mile skyline. Take the selfie of a lifetime on this inspirational experience!

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Weapons prohibited by US Coast Guard

Outside alcohol is prohibited

All bags are subject to search

Arrive 30 Minutes prior to your departure time

Contact tour operator for wheelchair & ADA access

Indoor and outdoor seating is available on a first come, first served basis

Special requests entered at checkout cannot be guaranteed

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Outdoor and Indoor climate-controlled seating option

Local Expert Guide

Restroom on board

Alcoholic drinks, non-alcoholic drinks, and snacks available for purchase on board

Storage

What To Expect

1

Chicago River

Lake and River Architecture Tours begin at Michigan Avenue and explore Chicago's amazing architecture along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. All tours are narrated by professional tour guides.

45 minutes • Admission Not Applicable
2

Lake Michigan

Your tour travels along Lake Michigan and explores Chicago's beautiful skyline.

45 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Options

Lake and River Tour

Reviews

4.68

2,231 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

1838
232
64
45
52
  • The River Boat tour was...

    viator,

    Sep 4, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    The River Boat tour was fabulous. Our guide was very knowledgeable and informative. We appreciated the lower level, when it rained for a short time.

  • We had a wonderful cruise...

    Celeste G,

    Sep 4, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    We had a wonderful cruise It was very educational and seamless. Got parking close in parking garage and just crossed street and went to riverwalk The staff were very friendly.

  • Disappointed

    Darnicah O,

    Sep 3, 2025

    - Viator

    1.00

    We paid more for the Chicago lake and River Architecture Tour and we only got the Architectural tour for 90 minutes. A big rip off no notice ahead of time until we were about to board the boat that we would not be going into the lake a refund was offered at that time but we spent a lot of money getting to that location and would have had to spend more getting back home. I would appreciate some type of compensation for a waste of our time.

  • It was interesting that I...

    Tina A,

    Sep 2, 2025

    - Viator

    4.00

    It was interesting that I feel more information should’ve been given during the tour. The boat ride was nice.

  • Ok

    andrew s,

    Sep 2, 2025

    - Viator

    4.00

    The tour guide talk way to much be nice we spend more time on the lake and definitely should tell people stand u see a lot more

From $45.00

4.68
2,231 reviews
Check availability

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