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
9,424 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Get the tickets!!
Angel W,
Oct 23, 2025
- Viator
5.00Absolutely amazing tour and information about the city! Make sure to dress warm even in the fall months!
Wendella FTW
Michael C,
Oct 23, 2025
- Viator
5.00No better way to see a city - any city - than the Chicago Architectural Boat Tour. I take every out of town guest, and Wendella has always been the favorite. Spiro was a fantastic tour guide!
Wendell’s River cruise
Ray W,
Oct 23, 2025
- Viator
5.00This cruise travels the farthest north and south on the river and has some good information included.
Fun and educational
DiegoRafael Z,
Oct 22, 2025
- Viator
5.00Listen to every detail take time to walk around and see every angle of the city. The bar was very convenient.
A Chicago must do!
Jessica M,
Oct 22, 2025
- Viator
5.00We arrived early and had some time to kill so we opted to see if the tour was available for same day reservation. We were able to buy tickets easily and luckily we were able to book within the two hours before the time slot we wanted. The boat is large. The lower deck is indoor, heated, and has a small bar. The top deck is where all the action is and you get to see everything Chicago has to offer. Scotty D was the man. He was interactive with the group and knew much about the buildings and their history. It got really cold and windy on the tour so it is recommended you wear a weather appropriate outfit if traveling in the fall/winter season.
Related Experiences
Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises