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
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.
Options
Chicago River Tour
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
10,080 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Interesting and enjoyable.
Shawn J,Jun 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00The tour was very interesting and informative in relation to the various types of architecture seen in the buildings along the river.
Missing at Sea
Brashon P,Jun 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00I didn’t make the trip, I got stuck in traffic coming from Lafayette, IN. When we arrived it was raining and we were late
My husband and I both...
Mary C,Jun 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00My husband and I both enjoyed this tour. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and very entertaining.
Stinky Onion City
John H,Jun 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fabulous tour! Bonny was a great guide. Tons of info and some humor as well. Definitely a highly recommended experience.
Tour guide (Dave) was...
Pam B,Jun 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Tour guide (Dave) was knowledgeable and entertaining. Lots of interesting facts. Great way to spend an afternoon in Chicago.
AWESOME
W9862ZArichardj,Jun 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Both tour guides were awesome and knew everything about Chicago.
This was the best tour!
291amyv,Jun 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This is a must do if you’re visiting Chicago. So much information about the buildings along the river as well as the city in general. Dave was our guide and he did a great job!
Historical, Educational, Inspiring, Comical, Beautiful and Family Friendly!
B5372LEedwardd,Jun 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Moderator very funny and educational!
It was a wonderful way to...
Rebecca L,Jun 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a wonderful way to experience the city from a different perspective. 💯 would do it again. I learned so much about the history of Chicago that I never knew!
Must see & do!
Dawn P,Jun 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was fantastic! Our guide Kenny was very knowledgeable. The weather was beautiful. Highly recommend.
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Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises