Bestseller

Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour

4.71

4.7(10,143 reviews)

1 hour 30 minutes

English

Mobile ticket

Show all 10 photos

Overview

Available languages

English

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.

15 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

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.

Admission Not Applicable

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

4.71

10,143 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

8616

773

340

174

240

A must do
674billiep,Jun 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
WONDERFUL guide and a amazing staff both before boarding and during the trip
Not to miss this excursion!
Linda M,Jun 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Incredible experience, informative and educational. Take lots of photos. Such an amazing city to see from the river and the tour guide was SO knowledgeable and entertaining!! My 15 yo granddaughter and I enjoyed every minute!!
#toursbyKenny
Lauren I,Jun 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Kenny was a fantastic tour guide. He was knowledgeable and funny and kept us laughing while being very informative. It was a great experience and a great day.
Fun time for friends and families
larry,Jun 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Bring water and sunscreen. Really fun way to see the major elements of the city and learn some history
Review of boat tour
Danielle V,Jun 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
The boat was very clean. My kids and I enjoyed learning about the architecture of Chicago. The tour guide knew a bunch of cool information that she shared with us. The snacks on board are affordable.
Great day in Chicago
Patrick M,Jun 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Very informative and interesting, great tour guide. Saw a lot of things that I didn’t know anything about.
Book it!
Cecilia D,Jun 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Kenny was an excellent guide. Lots of knowledge of architecture and Chicago history. It was sunny and hot so I’d suggest a hat or a hand fan and sunscreen. Definitely worth the cost and time.
Excellent views and...
Cori B,Jun 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Excellent views and informative. Pretty long for kids under 12 but prefect length for the older crowd.
Fun tour and lots to learn.
ejk travelers,Jun 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
A nice tour on the river with great commentary about the buildings and Chicago history.
A must do!
Stephanie K,Jun 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Such an amazing tour! Our guide, Dave, was amazing and really knowledgeable, as well as funny! My kids ( ages 14 and 13) also loved it!