Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Cruise along Chicago River and Lake Michigan
- 360-degree panoramic views of Chicago's skyline
- Expert commentary on architectural landmarks
- See iconic buildings like Willis Tower and John Hancock Center
- Learn about Chicago's rich architectural history
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided boat tour of Chicago River and Lake Michigan
- 360-degree panoramic views of Chicago's skyline
- Expert commentary on architectural landmarks
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Itinerary
Lake and River Architecture Tours begin at Michigan Avenue and explore Chicago's amazing architecture along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. All tours are narrated by professional tour guides.
Your tour travels along Lake Michigan and explores Chicago's beautiful skyline.
Pass by: 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.
Pass by: The largest commercial building in the world.
Pass by: Pass by these iconic mixed-use apartment buildings - "a city within a city" with their unique corn-cob exterior.
Pass by: Michigan Avenue is home of the Chicago Water Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the shopping on the Magnificent Mile.
Pass by: This white, terra-cotta landmark was built in 1922 as headquarters for the Wrigley chewing gum company.
Pass by: An open, pedestrian waterfront called the city's 'Second Lakefront.'
Pass by: Second-largest opera auditorium in North America, with an Art Deco interior
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- This tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather
- Food and drinks are not included; consider bringing your own
- The tour is wheelchair accessible
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for the weather
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views
- Arrive at the departure point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled time
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- Weapons prohibited by US Coast Guard
- Outside alcohol is prohibited
- All bags are 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
- Special requests entered at checkout cannot be guaranteed
Traveler reviews
Meh boat tour
Crowded boat a lot of people standing up blocking views. The day was hiot and the boat ride was hotter
Perfect Staycation Activity!
The beautiful scenery from that lake was breathtaking. Makes me love Chicago all the more. The lady who was on the mic was nice but it would have been great had she took a break between each thing that she had to say about the buildings..... like a moment for the crowd to take it all in.
Beautiful View of the City
We went on the tour during 100 F. The cruise had an air conditioned area where you can purchae drinks and chips. We enjoyed it. The staff was nice and walked around letting people know about the service downstairs.
Amazing experience
Amazing views, very informative and serene. Would absolutely ride this tour when I return. Definitely would recommend anyone taking this tour.
Amazing way to see and learn about Chicago
Wonderful way to see Chicago and learn so much about the city and the buildings . Jim the tour guide was so knowledgeable and humorous. He also gave us time to just enjoy the view !! We had a little confusion with family meeting us …. Because there are two places to board boats and they had to do a lot of stairs after going to the wrong boat.! Luckily they were able to get over to the right area in time to meet us !