Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile
Overview
Available languages
45 minutes
Mobile ticket
Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length architecture tours. Hop aboard our world class vessels as our local authentic tour guides showcase our amazing city.
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 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 Fees and Taxes
Restroom on board
Enclosed climate-controlled lounge/shelter from bad weather
Alcoholic, non-alcoholic drinks & snacks available for purchase on board
Storage
What To Expect
Chicago River
Cruise along the main and part of the south branch.
Chicago Riverwalk
Learn about the history of the Riverwalk.
Options
45-Minute Architecture Tour
45-Minute Tour: This cruise is a family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage.
Reviews
2,789 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Chicago skyscrapers has so much history!
Anuradha A,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We boarded the boat from Navy Peir. The tour guide shared so much information that I don’t know. He was funny, knowledgeable and did not miss a beat. Offered to click pictures in great spots and very polite.
Will be doing this again
Deb M,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a wonderful experience. Our guide had dry witty humor with lots of fun historical facts. It was wonderful to see Chicago from the river and all of its architecture up close. We are looking to take the longer boat tour the next time we are in Chicago and bringing more friends with us.
Glittery City
manpreetk679,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was an amazing view. We booked for 6pm slot. My suggestion for folks would be put more warm clothes as it was cold once cruise was in lake.
Beautiful!
Adventure561046,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour guide was super knowledgeable!! The sites were exquisite!! I recommend doing the sunset! You can see it in the day time and at night! Stinning!!
Beautiful Chicago!
ELIZABETH B,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00There is no indoor seating, so dress accordingly. Can be very windy, of course, it’s the Windy City!
Awesome experience!
Grace P,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00What a great way to view downtown Chicago! Bobby was great, narrating as we drifted down the Chicago River towards Lake Michigan and then back the other way. He was informative, funny, and he kept the cruise interesting. The city during the evening is gorgeous. It did get chillier as the evening passed, so a good jacket wintry wear works well starting in November. Line up early for better choice of seats, and prepare for a nice history/architecture tour and brilliant sights!
Great tour!
Allison M,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Lights, comedy, and on a boat?! This was so fun! The guide was filled with jokes and knowledge about the city. I would recommend this trip to everyone!
45 min tour
Meghan O,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Spiro was an amazing guide we had a great time, the evening time was beautiful all lit up, highly recommended
Great experience even as a Chicagoan
Yasmin A,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The tour guide was great and charismatic which made the tour very enjoyable. We did the 45 minute tour and felt it was well worth it.
Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile
Melly1788,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour was great! the 45 min tour is great for solo travelers who have a short time. Went on a Saturday Morning with Tour Guide Kenny who was hilarious and very knowledgeable!!! The tour is absolutely worth it for anyone visiting Chicago!
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Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises