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
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
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
2,343 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Sunny Saturday Morning Cruise
Deb E,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Kenny was a great tour guide! Every time we do the Wendell’s tour we learn new things! The weather was perfect and our friend visiting for the first time loved it! A must tour when in Chicago. Definitely do the River and Lake tour!
A must do in Chicago
Debby M,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This is the best way to see all the different architecture in Chicago. You will learn so much about the city & architecture.
Great way to see and learn about the city.
Lyssa H,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great way to see the city and to learn some of the history, not to mention picking up a few recommendations for additional stops/food items to try. If you're lucky enough to get Kenny, you will be informed as well as entertained.
Best tour in chicago
Sarah H,Jun 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Honestly this is a must do in Chicago and can’t believe it is so cheap. I have this tour 3x while visiting just to be on water.
Very good tour
k9srule,May 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Top marks across the board. Would certainly recommend.
Over crowded boad
meng t,May 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00The boat ride is hot, and very crowded, and if you happen to have certain inconsiderate large group near you, such as large Indian families, they will literally constantly talk over you till you are forced to leave…
Family Vacation
Kathie K,May 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
2.00This is a great tour, very informative and scenic. Just be aware if there are school groups on board. Our tour had several elementary grade kids from 3 different schools. A few minutes into the tour, they were talking and laughing loudly, playing games, wrestling and laying on each other and so it was very distracting and difficult to hear the tour guide. There were chaperones sitting with the kids and they did nothing to control the volume. We would have moved to different seats, but the boat was full. It would be great if the tour company booked cruises just for school groups and tailored the content. Younger kids lose interest in the narrative quickly so they start talking. We enjoyed the tour, just disappointed in the overall experience since we missed a lot of the commentary .
My Kind of Town
Barry N,May 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00As a Chicago area resident, I wanted to show our town to friends from the UK. 🇬🇧 This architectural boat tour plus Lake Michigan was outstanding. The city truly shows itself off very well.
Excellent, informative and a great start to Chicago trip.
Lisa M,May 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our trip was very enjoyable, informative and learnt a lot about the history of Lake Michigan and how the city of Chicago was built. If there was any down sides , ours were there were 3 separate school field trips on our tour 11.30am, so weren’t much room to find a seat if you were looking for a number of seats together ( larger family or group ). There are a number of steps down to the riverside. You can purchase drinks and snacks and there are restrooms onboard.
More than just architecture
Karen W,May 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Leisurely ride on the Chicago River while being entertained by an informative guide about the history of Chicago’s many iconic buildings - and a little more !
Related Experiences
Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises