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‘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
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
Reviews
9,489 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great boat tour! We...
Paul P,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great boat tour! We booked the 4pm ride as wanted to catch sunset. The onboard guide was very knowledgeable and had a great way of putting over the facts and figures of the buildings
Very informative! We...
Jennifer S,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Very informative! We were lucky to have a beautiful day and an excellent docent. Also, great service at concessions.
Rebels on tour
Martin C,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Don’t miss it, it’s an outstanding opportunity to get the history of Chicago whilst looking on in wonder at the amazing buildings and to witness the best that US ingenuity and design has to offer
You learn a lot about the...
Marcela C,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00You learn a lot about Chicago’s history and architecture. During fall go in the middle of the day so it’s not so cold.
Great experience
Lin K,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The guide is great. The boat ride was smooth too. Very educational and fun. Highly recommended to anyone visiting Chicago
Take the river tour!
Frank T,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour! Spiro was an our cruise guide and her was awesome! Lots of great sights and information. Highly recommend!
Great way to start your Chicago visit
Ariel H,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience. Note that there is construction at the location and you are meeting outside of the address not in the building. Look for the person wearing a shirt by the stairs that has the name of your tour. They were not hard to find. Otherwise easy peasy and great views. The guide was witty and knowledgeable and super friendly. Gave lots of recommendations and so far they have panned out to be actually great places. Loved the tour.
It was amazing! Loved the...
Courtney A,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was amazing! Loved the views of the skyline and the detailed information of Chicago history and architecture facts
Perfect for a tourist or a local
Morgan C,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Such a great tour. I lived in Chicago for a few years and this is my second time taking it. Very much worth it!
Tour not to skip when in Chicago
Jenifer N,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Alex our tour narrator was spectacular! Tour was a great pace, relaxing and throughly enjoyable! Boat was clean and staff were very accommodating.
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Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises