Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
Overview
Available languages
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 To Expect
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.
Lake Michigan
Your tour travels along Lake Michigan and explores Chicago's beautiful skyline.
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
Options
Lake and River Tour
Reviews
2,308 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The Worst Tourist Guide in History
mfcevallos,,Dec 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00The Lisa/Elisa tour guide (or something) practically ruined our walk. The lady did not pronounce the words well, her voice was nasal, unclear, with an ununderstandable accent, she left the words in half and emitted a guttural sound to finish them. All the passengers preferred to leave the deck because they did not understand anything. The little that was understood was learned by heart, nothing put some emphasis or emotion. He was in a bad mood and brazenly warned passengers of this situation. This is my third river tour and the previous two I did with another company and they were 100% amazing, pity that this tour that is the first with my children has been so bad and poor in architectural explanations.
Very informative. Bring a...
Susanne C,,Oct 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Very informative. Bring a small blanket- it was chilly. But if you’re hot, you could sit on the blanket. The chairs were pretty uncomfortable.
Excellent very happy
Nathan C,,Oct 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Visiting Chicago from Ireland for first time with friends and this was an excellent way to kick off the holiday. Gives you good view of Chicago, learn a bit of history from your guide, indoors available if it’s cold. Overall perfect and price was perfect too very happy with it. Drinks were available on board but I didn’t like the coffee however you could just bring coffee with you on board from somewhere near by. Overall excellent experience.
Great tour
Dave H,,Oct 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was a great tour if you are wanting to many of the buildings and the skyline from the lake. The guide was knowledgeable with the history and construction of the buildings
Highly recommend
B9964DRmichaelc,,Oct 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Staff even before we boarded were really nice and professional. Our guide Sarah was very knowledgeable and answered most if not all questions ask her. We would highly recommend this one but if you get motion sickness the lake was choppy today
Great Tour.
Liz K,,Oct 24, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Very informative. Well organised. Friendly staff. Lot of stories and historical information given throughout.
Amazing!!!
Andy S,,Oct 24, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This experience was really great! What made it Fun and Exciting was the commentator telling us all about the history of Chicago architecture. John was really funny and had the crowd laughing. If you take this tour, go with John.
Great Experience
Steven B,,Oct 24, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience. Tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and funny. Highly recommend going thru the locks and onto Lake Michigan.
Great tour, great guide....
Katie F,,Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour, great guide. It was probably a little too long for out kiddos (9 & 11), but we grown ups thought it was perfect. A boat cruise in Chicago is worth every penny. Everyone should add it to their must see list
Excellent tour! The tour...
Tonya D,,Oct 21, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent tour! The tour guide was so good. And we loved learning all about the history of the downtown area. Such a beautiful tour! Highly recommend it!! Shout out to our tour guide John! So entertaining and informative.
From US$45.00
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Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises