Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Marvel at the magnificent architecture on the Chicago River with expert tour guides! All ages welcome.
Each architecture river tour is narrated by a professional guide which leads passengers down the Chicago River to discover the city’s most renowned landmarks. In addition to historical insight on well known structures such as the Civic Opera House, Trump Tower & the Merchandise Mart, passengers will also get a chance to learn about current and upcoming developments. This Chicago River Cruise is the only cruise that navigates the three primary branches of the river including the main branch to Navy Pier, the north branch to Goose Island, and the south branch to Chinatown. It is also the cruise closest to Skydeck, has the least expensive parking, and is great for those coming from the suburbs due to its location off Interstate 290.
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tour times cannot be changed
Cruises are on rain or shine
Minimum drinking age is 21 years
Please arrive 30 min before your cruise time
Seating is first come first serve. If you have a large group, arrive early
Child Ticket (3 and under) is for free but needs a registered ticket
Youth Tickets available on our main ticketing page
Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship
Vessel has full bar and restroom
Please take note that parking is about $12.00 - $15.00. Please go on this link for more info. Link: https://toursandboats.com/sogdirections
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Fully enclosed interior with air conditioning, seats, & windows
Outside seating available (seating is first come first serve basis)
Restroom on board
Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River
Full bar & snacks (available for purchase)
Gratuities
$12 to $15 discounted parking lot connected to marina
Wrigley Building
Located in the center of the Magnificent Mile, and steps from the Michigan Avenue Bridge, The Wrigley Building has been a hallmark of Chicago’s skyline since 1920. Designed as the headquarters for the successful chewing gum, the building was modeled after the Seville Cathedral’s Giralda Tower in Spain. Today, it is still home to Wm Wrigley Jr. Company, and is perhaps best known for its dazzling white towers that illuminate the city at night.
Willis Tower
Willis Tower is the heart of downtown Chicago and the future of work and play. The 110-story building is one of the tallest buildings in the world and the second tallest building in Chicago, making it impossible to miss when appreciating the city’s skyline.
1,523 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Josephine L,
Aug 19, 2025
- Viator
wonderful way to learn about chicago and its history and landscape. Definitely worth going to. we also had a great tour guide-Adam.
Lisa H,
Aug 18, 2025
- Viator
Wear a hat or bring sunglasses! We had an absolutely perfect day and the tour itself was excellent! Tour guide, Heath, was great. We could hear him with no problem. He was very entertaining and knowledgeable.
Aiya D,
Aug 18, 2025
- Viator
We had such a wonderful experience on this boat tour! Everything was very well organized, and the crew was so friendly and welcoming. The boat itself was clean and comfortable, and I especially appreciated how well-kept the restrooms were. Our guide, Colleen, was fantastic—she was not only very knowledgeable but also made the tour engaging and fun. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone looking for a great experience on the water!
Antonio S,
Aug 17, 2025
- Viator
We enjoyed our tour it was very knowledgeable and fun the bar was fully stocked and the buildings are a must see from the river cruise.
Robynn F,
Aug 15, 2025
- Viator
The cruise destination of course was great. The ticketing/boarding employees were great help, especially Vinnie! However, the guide(presenter), as he said, was on his 4th tour in a row and when he was annoyed at least three or four times by the behaviors of a few of the passengers his remarks were abrupt and inappropriate. Though he was good at going around to check on questions at the times when he wasn’t presenting.
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