Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour

Overview

Available languages

Chinese

English

1 hour 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Be inspired by the captivating, visual art that is Chicago’s legendary architecture, and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing, dynamic legacy for all to enjoy and admire. This comprehensive 90 minute tour will navigate through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River while your professionally-trained architectural guide tells the story of more than 130 years of innovation in design, style and technique and why it is important today. The Chicago River Architecture Tour is the most authentic and encompassing Chicago experience the city has to offer.

Additional Info

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

Maps are available with highlights in simplified Chinese. They can picked up per request at the ticket window.

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

Indoor and outdoor seating available (indoor is climate controlled)

Narrated tour on board by professionally trained tour guide.

Expert Local Guide

Restroom on board

Drinks and snacks available for purchase on-board the vessel.

Gratuities

What To Expect

Wendella

Vessels depart from Wendella's docks at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge (DuSable Bridge), at the foot of the Wrigley Building.

15 minutes•Admission Not Applicable

Centennial Fountain And Water Arc

Dedicated in 1989 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, known for reversing the flow of the Chicago River in 1900. For the first five minutes of every hour, the fountain shoots a water arc across the river from a tiered waterfall.

•Admission Not Applicable

Options

Chicago River Tour

Reviews

4.70

8,031 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

6768

654

275

150

184

Great photography ops
Gilbert C,
Jun 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00
The entire boat ride was awesome but we especially loved our tour guide Justine. She had great stories about all the architecture. A big plus… you get the best city pix from the river!
Very informative, Spearo...
Christina B,
Jun 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Very informative, Spearo the tour guide was brilliant, very funny and great story teller. I would highly recommend
We love Dave
Melanee P,
Jun 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Dave was amazing from the Get go. Puns 10/10 he truly needed some more credit. It was a great experience, beautiful sights, and we felt safe the whole time. We missed our original tour and they were able to help us get new tickets for the next tour in a very efficient manner!
Very well organized and...
Julie S,
Jun 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Very well organized and informative. Boat was spotless. Staff was helpful and friendly. Would highly recommend
A worthwhile tour
Stephanie H,
Jun 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Our guide was exceptionally knowledgeable. This made for a very interesting tour. I had no real expectations and was truly impressed. Made me live Chicago even more.