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 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.
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
Options
Lake and River Tour
Reviews
2,326 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great tour
Sabrina B,May 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I thoroughly enjoyed this tour. It was awesome to see all the buildings from the water and learn about the Chicago history. The tour guide was wonderful and knew her stuff. We also were able to go out on Lake Michigan which was pretty cool. I would highly recommend this tour for anyone that visits Chicago. Definitely worth the money.
Would like to be able to do this trip someday
Chris B,May 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00We didn’t make the boat. The place is really difficult to find and Wendella who operates the boat doesn’t answer the phone
AN Awesome Adventure
Gerald S,May 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Awesome!! We saw so much and learned a great deal about the city and it's history. Love to do it again!!
Great tour.
Susan P,May 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent tour- both educational and entertaining. Take the 90 minute tour; it's worth the extra time and $.
A great experience, ...
Naini K,May 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00A great experience, synopsis of architectural history of Chicago especially for travelers who visit for a short time- one and half hours and you know it all !
A very well organised,...
Katie O,May 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00A very well organised, informative and efficient architecture tour on Lake Michigan. Very entertaining guide, who was super knowledgable.
Who knew architecture could be so interesting?
Mary Q,May 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our guide mixed history with humor. Very enjoyable tour. A bit chilly out on the lake, but that was of course, to be expected.
Chicago architect lake and river tour
Julian D,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our tour guide (David I think) was outstanding! Extremely knowledgeable about all the buildings and Chicago history! He was also very funny and down to earth! Chicago has a beautiful sky line!!
Definitely recommend!
Deborah D,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very knowledgeable tour guide. Beautiful sites! Great pictures. So glad we did it and created great memories!
Just do it!
libbyhu,Apr 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great time and very informative tour!
From US$45.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises