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
9,698 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Visiting home with a few San Diego friends
michaelle m,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00John AKA Jennifer Lopez did an amazing job with all the details of buildings on our tour. He was funny as personally coming by each individual to see if we had any questions
Not great
Anton W,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00A lot of people thought it was a party Cruz. So it was to loud to hear the guy talking about the buildings and history. I wouldn't say it was their fault 100% but maybe make it more clear.
Boat tour
Pia A,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent experience despite the freezing cold temperature when we went! My husband and I enjoyed the fun facts shared by the tour guide. Hot cocoa on the boat was good to have if you’re doing this in the wintertime.
If I could give 0 stars I would
Angelica B,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00I’ve booked this tour before and this second time around was completely different. The tour speaking was completely negative- speaking on politics amongst other things that honestly didn’t need to be spoken of regarding this tour (I’ve taken this tour before). She gave her input every single time which again was absolutely annoying. I wouldn’t book through here again.
Green River, Snowy Cold Tour
Baybug2,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00You should have assigned seat Ashley was entertaining and gave lots of dad jokes and history. The weather was windy and snowing and if you are not prepared it could be miserable.
Lasting Memories but s few let downs!
Kimberly J,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00We had a great time on the boat ride but it was a large group -15 guest and we all did not arrive at the same time because of traffic. I had 7 friends who missed the boat due to traffic te routes and the St. PATRICKS DAY day crowd. .I asked the crew if we could get a refund or credit and they said No😔 NEXT, I called in advance to have my sons birthday announced and the nice lady said OK but they NEVER announced it. Overall, the tour guide was nice. I wish there was more seating on the inside. Purchasing tickets and onboarding was easy@ Overall, we had acgreat time and took lots of pictures and will cherish this memory!💚🎉🎊
Good!
Arja L,Mar 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Overall great tour and would really recommend! I originally booked one in the morning but was able to change it to the afternoon without any problem. The guide was very good! However, they did a break of around 20-30 min towards the end, which I found a bit disappointing. Especially as a solo traveler, I would have loved to hear more.
Awesome!!
151katel,Mar 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Alyssa was amazing! The tour really exceeded expectations!!!
Great experience architecture boat tour
Samantha S,Mar 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Awesome tour guide. A must try tour in Chicago. The tour guide was very friendly, helpful, professional
Take a ride! 🫶
Jocelyn H,Mar 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Incredible. Our tour guide was absolutely hilarious and I learned so much about Chicago!! It was freezing cold but totally worth it, anyway! (There is indoor seating below but not the best views then). 10/10 would take another Wendella tour
From US$44.00
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Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises