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Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour

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Overview

Available languages

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

1

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
2

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

8,366 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

7057
674
288
157
190
  • One of the better tourist attractions

    Martin L,

    Jul 25, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    If you want a premium seat plan on arriving early. The tour guide we had was excellent and I think that had a lot to do with the experience

  • Chicago is ALL about Architecture

    David F,

    Jul 25, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    The tour guide on the boat gave so many history and architecture details that was the perfect way to start our visit to Chicago!

  • The tour was great!...

    Michelle G,

    Jul 25, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    The tour was great! Alyssa was an incredible tour guide, very knowledgeable about the history of Chicago, the building structures, some comedy as well, thank you for a great tour and laughs. Seating from the boat was comfortable.

  • First time visitor

    Doris W,

    Jul 25, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    This was my first time in Chicago and I wanted to see the Sears building and more in a short amount of time. Not only did I see the building and plenty more buildings. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and willing to answer questions.

  • My View Of This Toyr

    william B,

    Jul 25, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Boat Tour was awesome. Tour guide very knowledgeable about the building and Chicago history. I would definitely recommend this tour.

From USD 45

4.70
8,366 reviews
Check availability

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Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises

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