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 To Expect
Chicago River
Cruise along the main and part of the south branch.
Chicago Riverwalk
Learn about the history of the Riverwalk.
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
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
2,906 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Seeing a different side of Chicago, through different eyes.
EBT3,,Jan 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very informative about the architecture of Chicago. Tes, the narrator was fabulous. You could hear every word. Very articulate. She made interesting in 40* weather. 45 minutes was perfect in the cold.
Excellent experience
Desmon W,,Jan 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience. Very educational on Chicago’s history and buildings. The boat ride was good as well.
Great tour even in January weather
Ravi K,,Jan 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour of Chicago River with excellent live narration from Tess describing the various buildings in the Chicago Skyline. Boarding is very orderly. Highly recommended.
Great!
Ashley K,,Jan 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00The tour guide, Zach, was fantastic and the hot chocolate was horrible. 45 minutes is plenty of time in cold weather, dress warmly.
Great experience. The...
elijah p,,Jan 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience. The skyline was beautiful and the tour guide was awesome. This was the highlight of my trip.
Must do
Arjun L,,Jan 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience with in-depth information. There’s an indoor section so even if it gets too cold you can warm up downstairs.
A wonderful excursion to...
Kashi A,,Jan 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00A wonderful excursion to learn more about Chicago’s architectural history! Tess was an excellent guide. If it’s cold out, dress warmly!
Brisk but worth it
JulieDuckworth I,,Jan 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00When you get to the bridge, follow the steps down. The best seating is on the left side of the boat as you're facing the front. Along the bench. Learned a lot about the architecture and a little about the city.Really great first tour of chicago.
Fun!
Alyssa R,,Jan 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fun, great photo opportunities, lots of good info- guide (Alyssa) was funny. Would love to do it again in summer!
In depth commentary and...
Luanne H,,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00In depth commentary and beautiful night experience. Zack had a lot of interesting information about the architecture and history of Chicago.
From US$28.00
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Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises