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
2,297 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Fantastic tour! Our...
Kelly S,
Oct 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00Fantastic tour! Our international friends thoroughly enjoyed it! Bring sunglasses or a hat if it is sunny, and expect it to be windy and chilly on the lake.
Very interesting and...
Jan H,
Oct 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00Very interesting and entertaining tour. Our guide, Dave was very informative and also funny. Learned a lot about Chicago and had a pleasant boat ride.
Great nighttime tour of Chicago River
Melanie B,
Oct 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00My friend and I had a great time on this river cruise! We did the 6:45pm tour in October, so it did get dark, but the views were gorgeous and our tour guide Lucas was informative. It was a pretty packed boat, so make sure to get there early, in order to get in line and get a good spot. Still recommend this tour!
Excellent Tour
Preeti A,
Oct 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00It was an excellent tour. We learnt lot of details of this beautiful city, history in a short span of time. Definitely recommend this wonderful tour.
Boat very clean,...
Gabi G,
Oct 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00Boat very clean, personnel very nice. The boat left on time as scheduled. During the ride they explained the different architecture with a little of history.
Related Experiences
Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises