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‘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
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.
Options
Lake and River Tour
Reviews
2,231 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The River Boat tour was...
viator,
Sep 4, 2025
- Viator
5.00The 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
5.00We 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
1.00We 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
4.00It 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
4.00The 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
Related Experiences
Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises