Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour
Overview
Available languages
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 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.
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.
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
Options
Chicago River Tour
Reviews
9,914 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Best Chicago Tour
Shannon I,May 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour!! Excellent narration. Beautiful scenery. Tour guy was awesome!! Very funny and authentic.
Great trip!
anita m,May 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00It was a great trip with a wonderful guide. The only thing I did not like was the long line-up before boarding. No shade.
Fabulous Time
N289YDsamanthaw,May 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our group had a fabulous time learning all the things about Chicago! Our guide was wonderful!
No answer
Sherman G,May 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very informative love the architecture, very interesting history. I have nothing else to share in this review.
The tour was great, the...
Stephanie S,May 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The tour was great, the guide was knowledgeable and the sound quality was good. If you’re having trouble locating which tour company, the security folks on the river walk are friendly and helpful and can direct you to the correct dock.
Great Tour
Global02474570735,May 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was excellent. Our guide, Kenny, was personable, informative, and entertaining. The views were fantastic. I would consider this a “must do” for anyone visiting Chicago.
Take this tour!
Lori V,May 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The city of Chicago is so beautiful and to experience and learn a bit of its history while traveling down the river is a must! This tour was spectacular.
Upped our Jeopardy...
Vicki V,May 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Upped our Jeopardy knowledge. Very informative tour. Be prepared for cold and windy weather, but otherwise very enjoyable.
Great
CatherineD244,May 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent narration on the river with a very clean boat
Great experience!
Linda P,May 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00What a wonderful way to see the skyline of Chicago! I had no idea that Chicago was so beautiful. Our cruise commentator was excellent. Very knowledgeable about the history of the buildings and Chicago. So glad we took this cruise.
From US$45.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises