Magpie
4.7(10,019 reviews)

Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour

From$45
1h 30m
Chicago, USA

About this activity

Explore Chicago's architectural wonders on a 90-minute narrated boat tour along the Chicago River, offering stunning skyline views and expert insights.

Highlights

  • Marvel at iconic skyscrapers
  • Learn about Chicago's architectural history
  • Enjoy panoramic city views
  • Experience the Chicago River up close
  • Discover hidden architectural gems

Full description

Set sail on a captivating 90-minute journey along the Chicago River, where you'll be immersed in the city's rich architectural heritage. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour unveils the stories behind Chicago's iconic skyscrapers and hidden architectural gems. As you glide through the heart of the city, enjoy unparalleled views of the skyline, bridges, and historic buildings that define Chicago's unique urban landscape. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this tour offers a fresh perspective on the Windy City. Don't miss the chance to see Chicago from the best seat in the city—the water!

Included / Excluded

  • 90-minute narrated boat tour
  • Expert guide commentary
  • Breathtaking views of Chicago's skyline
  • Food and beverages

Itinerary

1

Vessels depart from Wendella's docks at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge (DuSable Bridge), at the foot of the Wrigley Building.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

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.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Pass by: The largest commercial building in the world.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

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.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

Pass by: This white, terra-cotta landmark was built in 1922 as headquarters for the Wrigley chewing gum company.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Pass by: An open, pedestrian waterfront called the city's 'Second Lakefront.'

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

Pass by: Second-largest opera auditorium in North America, with an Art Deco interior

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8

Pass by: Pass by these iconic mixed-use apartment buildings - "a city within a city" with their unique corn-cob exterior.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tours operate rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather.
  • Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Pets are not allowed on the tour.

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

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • 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

Traveler reviews

4.7
10,019 reviews
5
8,507
4
763
3
337
2
174
1
238

This was very fun and...

This was very fun and informative tour. It was a little hard to find but once I was on board everything was smooth sailing.

Keith_SMay 25, 2026VIATOR

What a wonderful way to see the city

I would recommend this river trip to anyone visiting Chicago. I have lived near my entire life and it is the first time that I have gone and I will definitely be going again. The guides are knowledgeable. I would definitely recommend for a first time visitor.

Cathy BMay 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Boat trip

Better arrive early or you won’t get a good seat. Nice view of the buildings. If you sit at the bottom you can hardly hear the speaker.

Donald_TMay 25, 2026VIATOR

Worthwhile Tour!

A great tour with a lot of history of Chicago. Tour guide was great and the vessel was clean. And weather was amazing.

AnanthK_PMay 25, 2026VIATOR

Pretty good value.

The tour was great. However, getting to the boarding location was difficult. The tour operator needs better signage on Michigan Ave. Also they should consider some form of rest rooms down near the boat loading area since you may have to hold your place in line for a long period of time.

M9618NZdoncMay 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

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
Book Now