Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour

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

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.

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

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

4.71

10,000 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

8491

761

336

174

238

It was really nice to...
Karen F,May 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
It was really nice to seat on the boat and listen to the history of Chicago. Very informative. Learned a lot. But 90 mins seem little too long for me.
It’s a nice tour to bring...
Kezia K,May 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
It’s a nice tour to bring guests who are interested in the architecture and history of Chicago. I learned a lot even though I don’t know all the architecture styles. I especially liked learning about Chicago’s history.
90 minute architectural tour
Tatum B,May 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Alissa did a great job! Very informative and funny learned a lot about Chicago and the architecture . Great tour!
Chi-town must do!
T1009FKmichellea,May 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The tour guide was very knowledgeable. This tour is a must do. I recommend you give it a try.
The beauty and history of Chicago
Maria B,May 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
The architectural cruise is a great way to get to know the history and see some of the key sites of Chicago. Although I travel alone, I had lots of positive interactions with other people on the boat. The tour guide was energetic and informative. I highly recommend this tour.
Chicago architecture tour is Awesome!
Carolyn J,May 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
The tour was great. John our tour guide was Awesome! He was very knowledgeable and engaging! We had a good time the entire tour
Lovely Architectural Cruise
Brian M,May 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Great trip if the weather is ok. We chose a sunny warm day, although I wouldn’t have enjoyed it so much on the days either side of that, due to being outside on the upper deck. I would recommend this trip to anyone who likes to see the city from a different viewpoint. The commentator John was excellent, full of information on every building, and added to the ‘show’ with a camp delivery which everyone enjoyed.
Perfect outing for a Saturday afternoon!
jeremyc174,May 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Perfect outing for a Saturday afternoon. So informative and interesting. Fun to have a river ride, great to see and contemplate all of the dozens and dozens of tall buildings, wonderful to get a smattering of Chicago historyand feel the pulse of this vibrant city. The tour guide/narrator was excellent.
Done miss this tour to truly appreciate Chicago.
missmycats1313,May 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The experience was more than I expected. Very professional team and our guide was outstanding with details and amusing commentary. She not only detailed the architecture but included significant historical references to put Chicago in perspective. Was well worth the price.
Wendella Tours
Natasha M,May 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Easy, informative, educational and the VIEWS are amazing! The tour is the perfect amount of time and you get a great feel for downtown and all the skyscrapers.