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
2,266 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Do this on your 1st day visiting Chicago!
Tamar S,
Sep 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00We did this on our last day of visiting Chicago and we should’ve done it on our first day there! Our guide gave all kinds of tips on food places and explained things we’d had questions about. We did the 90 min tour which also goes out on Lake Michigan so you can see the skyline. It was fun, informative, relaxing and interesting. Plus the views are stunning. Easy to book online with lots of options for times and worth the money to do the longer tour.
Great experience!
Toni T,
Sep 28, 2025
- Viator
5.00Excellent experience Scotty D did a great job a our tour guide! Very knowledgeable and made us all have a fun time
Thumbs up for getting on the water
Vincent B,
Sep 26, 2025
- Viator
5.00It’s a quick way to learn so much about Chicago. Cruising on both the Chicago river and Lake Michigan was great. Incredible views of Chicago.
Great experience
Halins A,
Sep 26, 2025
- Viator
5.00The guide was knowledgeable and funny made the trip in enjoyable not only the interesting! The weather was great For the tour
Thorough water tour of...
George D,
Sep 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00Thorough water tour of the river and the lake (shoteline) with informative commentary of the architecture and Chicago history.
Related Experiences
Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises