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
9,877 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Very pleasurable and relaxing.
Q9010UOdavidd,Apr 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent narrator. Very friendly and informative.
Dave is hilarious
Josh S,Apr 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Dave was the best guide! He had a wealth of knowledge about the city and the architecture, as well as history.
Good Times are happening
Michelle C,Apr 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I don't know, somebody saw one once. Actually it was a good time. Did learn some interesting facts about the city
Boat tour
Chandra M,Apr 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00You should do it! Guide was knowledgeable and fun. The day we went the weather was a bit rainy, but we still had a blast!
Great tour. Very...
Regina W,Apr 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour. Very engaging. I learned things. I would recommend this tour to anyone. I was resistant to the activity and ended up enjoying myself.
Very informative and...
Jenny B,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very informative and super interesting guided tour about the architecture and history of Chicago, sprinkled with some great stories and humor as well!
Great cruise
Kaimana C,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We drove from michegan to tour this cruise,celebrating our 37th year anniversary. it was chili and breezy, but relaxing and educational.The bar made up for the cold as well as the hot cocoa! loved our guide and all of the staff from ticketing during our wait to get on the cruise,they were very friendly.. I would recommend this tour
Architecture Tour
Robert S,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Not to miss this tour, it was extremely enjoyable and very informative. Our tour guide Spiro was very knowledgeable and entertaining!
On Time and Informative
Global40550510581,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Tour guide was funny and informative. The boat left right at the reservation time, so get there early!
Don't miss this tour
Jaimi O,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing views of the city. The history of the city was fascinating. Would definitely go again. Our guide, John, was amazing!
From US$45.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises