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
2,815 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great experience
Bhabesh T,
Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Lovely experience. Always great to hear about the beautiful city’s architecture and soak in the beauty. Recommend the dusk tour.
Great overview
Timothy B,
Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Perfect amount of information and photo opportunities for a 45-minute trip. If you're an aficionado take a longer more in-depth one, but this was great. I missed where it specified this was main branch and south branch of river, and not the north one, so if it doesn't specify that it should.
Though cold in November,...
AnaMarija K,
Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Though cold in November, it was a memorable evening cruise with a fantastic guide who who gave us a lot of interesting information about the city and its architecture.
Bobby was an excellent...
julie j,
Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Bobby was an excellent guide sharing interesting knowledge about the Chicago River and architecture. Wonderful experience!
boat review
Megan N,
Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00guide was great, beautiful views, good selection of drinks and snacks, and perfect amount of time on boat.
Informative, entertaining and inclusive
tkelly34,
Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our tour guide Bob M was great. Very enthusiastic, well humored and passionate about Chicago and the architecture ! Our family had a great time.
Must do!
Diana M,
Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was such an amazing tour Kenny was so funny and knowledgeable 10/10 recommend Everyone walking off the boat was saying, how they were so glad they did the tour
Wish we could've went
Jason B,
Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
1.00We didnt get to go cuz it was raining and snowing i called and asked if we could reschedule but they said no you can sit at the bottom of the boat and look out the windows
Great for families with kids!
Sadie W,
Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This is a very kid friendly tour! It’s not too long for little ones, and the pace is brisk and with tons of beautiful and interesting views. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and funny, great for the adults. The boat was also very clean and nicely maintained. For the price, this is the best deal for families with children.
Fasho
Kyle L,
Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00A lot of info on the buildings and such. Great time. Be sure to get there early and grab bevs! Seats definitely fill up.
From $28.00
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Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises