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Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

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Overview

Available languages

English

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

1

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.

45 minutes • Admission Not Applicable
2

Lake Michigan

Your tour travels along Lake Michigan and explores Chicago's beautiful skyline.

45 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Options

Lake and River Tour

Reviews

4.69

2,266 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

1868
234
66
46
52
  • Do this on your 1st day visiting Chicago!

    Tamar S,

    Sep 30, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    We 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

    5.00

    Excellent 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

    5.00

    It’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

    5.00

    The 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

    5.00

    Thorough water tour of the river and the lake (shoteline) with informative commentary of the architecture and Chicago history.

From $45.00

4.69
2,266 reviews
Check availability

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Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises

A product of Trip Social Group

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