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
8,366 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
One of the better tourist attractions
Martin L,
Jul 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00If you want a premium seat plan on arriving early. The tour guide we had was excellent and I think that had a lot to do with the experience
Chicago is ALL about Architecture
David F,
Jul 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00The tour guide on the boat gave so many history and architecture details that was the perfect way to start our visit to Chicago!
The tour was great!...
Michelle G,
Jul 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00The tour was great! Alyssa was an incredible tour guide, very knowledgeable about the history of Chicago, the building structures, some comedy as well, thank you for a great tour and laughs. Seating from the boat was comfortable.
First time visitor
Doris W,
Jul 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was my first time in Chicago and I wanted to see the Sears building and more in a short amount of time. Not only did I see the building and plenty more buildings. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and willing to answer questions.
My View Of This Toyr
william B,
Jul 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00Boat Tour was awesome. Tour guide very knowledgeable about the building and Chicago history. I would definitely recommend this tour.
Related Experiences
Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises