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
10,255 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
What’s a little rain??
Kimberly W,Jun 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a blast and learned so much about Chicago.. Great way to spend 90 minutes. Andy on the water for the win!
Great tour
Catherina H,Jun 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour and learning about some of Chicago history was amazing. Was a cloudy day sadly. Alyssa was amazing.
Get there early select a...
Wendy H,Jun 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Get there early to select a good seat. There are a lot of stairs to get down to the dock. Not wheelchair accesible
This one!!!
Rose D,Jun 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The guides were great!!! Very informative and great electric gospel music. I love how brutally honest he was. Sometimes “it is what it is” that’s how it was given and that’s how it I received!!!!
Highly recommended!
Jamila H,Jun 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great activity! Several people told me this was a must - do! Both people who live there and people who, like me, were visiting. It did not disappoint. I did it in the evening but I'll definitely do it again during daylight next time.
Chicago Must Do!
Jeff G,Jun 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience…well worth the money. John , our tour guide , was excellent. History combined with a relaxing cruise.
Entertaining and Educational!
Denise d,Jun 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Entertaining and Educational! Our guide was so informative and funny at the same time! We were able to take great photos from the river!
Boat Tour
BackPacker221556,Jun 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our tour guide Justine was amazing. She was so personable and knew so much about Chicago and told us all some fun places to go and must do while in Chicago with families and friends. I really enjoyed the experience.
Beautiful. Go at nighttime!!!!
Eleisa W,Jun 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I had to go on this ride a second time to experience the tour at night and it was a wonderful experience…. Friendly staff and tour guide!! And we couldn’t have done it without our lovely conductor. Always a pleasure seeing them. Thank you for this experience. I love chicago
Very fun an educational...
Sadie P,Jun 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very fun an educational experience, the tour guide Dave made the experience even better as you can tell he enjoys his job. Beautiful city and views, overall great experience to learn about the city. Only thing I’d recommend is getting there at least 30-45 min before you’re tour starts.
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