chicago architecture boat tour 45 minutes

Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours

Chicago River Tours | Fireworks Tours | Jazz/Cocktail Tours

River Boat Tours

Book your tour now, book by phone: (708) 488-6343, about the tours, chicago river boat architecture tours .

Welcome to Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours!  We’re proud to present you with an in-depth, expert architectural-based river boat tour that delves into one of the most remarkable American cities today. Known for unique, daring, and historical architectural pursuits, it’s hard to cover all of the design and building treasures that make up the Windy City today. If you’re ready to learning more about the designs, people, and innovations behind these creations, throw on your captains hat and get ready to cruise along the Chicago River and see what architects from around the world travel to see in Chicago.

About The Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours

Chicago is known around the world for its architectural feats, both inside and outside of the buildings. From the 100-year-old Art Deco, Neo-Classical, and Gothic Towers, to some of the tallest modern-day skyscrapers, Chicago is where old meets futuristic architectural endeavors. It has something for everyone in a way that no other city replicates today.

Why Tour Chicago’s Architecture with Us?

We are born-and-raised Chicagoans ourselves, passionate about the community that we know and love. That passion and desire spills into all of our tours, drawing on personal experiences for curating a tour that just can’t be duplicated by a book or a movie. We want you to experience everything firsthand. Why tour with us?

• Expertise: All of our tour guides are either architects, architecture students, or architecture historians, making for an in-depth and personally rooted kind of touring experience that covers all of the discreet details.
• Variety: We offer a variety of uniquely different tours that cover everyone’s individual taste. We offer the Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour that takes you down the famous Chicago River; there are several different options such as Architecture, History, Cocktail Cruises and Firework Viewing Tours
• Flexibility : We want you to enjoy your Chicago River Boat touring experience, which is why we’re happy to talk with you and learn more about how our tours can accommodate you, your party, or your corporate outing. Our tours run daily, with availability always posted on our website here.

Our Tours  

• Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour : When in Chicago, cruising down the Chicago River is  a must. Except with us, you’ll be taking in the architecture of the buildings that line the beautiful river. We provide detailed explanations of the construction and history of over 50 significant buildings, wrapping up at the end of the river.
• Chicago River Boat Cocktail Tour : Join us for this great Architecture Tour while sipping craft cocktails, beer or wine available for purchase at our bar on board!
• Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruise :  Fireworks, one of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China were invented in the 12th century. Chicago approved City-Wide Use of Fireworks on the 4th of July 1893,. Mayor of Chicago Patrick Eugene Prendergast issued a proclamation approving the use of fireworks to celebrate the World’s Colombian Exposition and to celebrate the nation’s 117th Independence Day. This fascination with fireworks, noise, and color continues today. The City of Chicago offers a fireworks show at Navy Pier on Saturday nights at 10:15 p.m. The Fireworks Cruise sails on both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan each Saturday at 8:30 pm.

Our Commitment to Your Touring Experience

We believe that tours should be entertaining, enlightening, informational, and perfectly organized, every single time. A tour shouldn’t feel laborious in any way; you should feel an effortless inclination to learn more about what we present at your fingertips. With our Chicago architectural tours, that’s exactly what we strive to provide, basing each tour from the perspective of an expert with the real-life example in the background.

If you’re thinking about booking a tour with us, know that our commitment to flexibility and accessible makes our Chicago Architecture Tours easy and convenient:

• 3 pm *Not Available Friday thru Sunday Summer Months*
• 6:30 pm (Jazz Band, Cocktail w/bar) *Sunday Only*
• 8 pm (Wednesdays)
• 8:30 pm (Saturdays)
• Seniors $48
• Youths $30 (7-12 years old)
• Children 6 and under Free

BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY

Click Here to Purchase a Gift Certificate

Chicago river boat cocktail tour.

Join us in the evening to sip cocktails while cruising the historic Chicago River! Get the same tour just with a cocktail in your hand! Premium bar on board with craft cocktails, wine and beer available for purchase. Drinks may be purchased individually with a credit card on the boat. Tour Information Pricing Adults $49… Continue reading Chicago River Boat Cocktail Tour

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Chicago river boat architectural tour.

Forming a length of 156 miles when combined, the Chicago River is a system of rivers and canals the characterize the infamous skyline of Chicago today. The river, running through the city, including the city center Chicago Loop, is evident of man made design and infrastructure when completed craftily. In 1887, the river was reversed… Continue reading Chicago River Boat Architectural Tour

Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruises (w/ Architecture Tour)

Enjoy your favorite drink while gazing Chicago’s magnificent architecture and finish your cruise with fabulous light show, at Navy Pier. Fireworks, one of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China were invented in the 12th century. Chicago approved City-Wide Use of Fireworks on the 4th of July 1893,. Mayor of Chicago Patrick Eugene Prendergast issued… Continue reading Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruises (w/ Architecture Tour)

45-minute Chicago River Architecture Boat Tour

A discovery of the city's most iconic buildings and landmarks

This boat cruise tour will allow you to get an introduction to the Windy City’s unique architecture and designers and their heritage and history.

Taking you along both the main and part of the south branch of the river, this tour will entertain all ages as you see and learn about several important landmarks and buildings, such as the Riverwalk, The Wrigley Building and Merchandise Mart, one of the largest buildings in the United States. You'll also see Chicago's most famous venue for live performances, the Lyric Opera House, the city's tallest skyscraper, Willis Tower, as well as unique mixed-use apartment buildings.

What's included

• Guide services

What's Not Included

• Drinks and snacks

Accessibility

• Accessible to strollers
• Service animals welcome
• Public transit links nearby

Health & Safety

• Suitable for all fitness levels

Restrictions

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before the start time.

Languages spoken by guide

Additional information.

Please note that drinks and snacks are available for purchase onboard.

Please note that all participants need a ticket, including children aged 0–3 years. You may add an infant ticket for free.

The minimum age for consuming alcohol is 21 years.

Please note that outside alcohol and weapons of any kind are prohibited.

Please note that all bags are subject to security checks.

Itinerary information

User ratings, what guests loved most, frequently asked questions, how do i book a ticket.

Select a date and time.

Choose the number of tickets.

Click through to the next page and enter your personal details.

After entering your personal details, select your payment method and enter your payment details.

Once you’ve entered your payment details successfully, you'll be redirected to your ticket page where you can check the status and details of your reservations.

You'll receive a confirmation email once the reservation is confirmed with the attraction operator. This could take some time based on the supplier.

You can view your tickets in your confirmation email or the Booking and Trips section of your account.

When do I pay?

Booking.com collects payment on behalf of the attraction operator when you book your ticket.

How do digital tickets work?

Each digital ticket contains a unique code. This is usually a QR or numerical code, but could be something else and can be found on your ticket or the PDF sent to you.

If your digital ticket contains a barcode or QR code, show it to the staff at the attraction's entrance or ticket collection point for them to scan.

For those with numerical codes, show your ticket to staff for verification.

Can I cancel or modify my tickets?

You’ll need to check the policy on the specific ticket you book. Last-minute bookings might not have free cancellation available.

When will I get my free cancellation refund?

After you cancel, we'll issue a full refund immediately. Depending on your bank or payment provider, it can take 3–10 days to be refunded to your original payment method.

Tickets and prices

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

TICKET PRICES STARTING FROM

Taxes and fees will be calculated at checkout

Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length architecture tours. Hop aboard our world class vessels as our local authentic tour guides showcase our amazing city.

Ticket Options

1 Option Available

45-Minute Architecture Tour: $13

45-Minute Tour: This cruise is a family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage.

Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking

What's not Included

• Alcoholic, non-alcoholic drinks & snacks available for purchase on board

Cancellation Policy

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

Additional Info

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• 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
• Special requests entered at checkout cannot be guaranteed

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Chicago: 45 Minute River Architectural Cruise Tour

⭐ Chicago: 45 Minute River Architectural Cruise Tour. Get a quick, rich history and architecture intro to Chicago with a 45-minute river cruise—perfect for first-time visitors and photo ops.

Ticket types 🎫 Adult (13+) 🎫 Child (4-12)

Highlights 💼 Boat ride showcasing Chicago's river architecture, lasts for 45 minutes. 👨‍✈️ Expert skipper as the guide of the trip 📸 Capture breathtaking skyline views 🎤 Listen to captivating narrations 🚢 Embark on an unforgettable journey! General Info 📅 Date and time: various dates and times are available (select during purchase) 📍 Location: Wendella ⏳ Duration: 45 minutes 👤 Age requirement: children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 4 enter for free ♿ Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible ❗ For this event, all sales are final and tickets can’t be refunded, changed or modified. For more information, please refer to our T&Cs

Description Experience the awe-inspiring architecture of Chicago on an exhilarating 45-minute tour designed especially for first-time visitors. During this adventure, our expert captain guide will lead you on a captivating journey, sharing intriguing stories about each iconic landmark and highlight along the way. This family-friendly tour offers the comfort of a climate-controlled lounge, convenient restroom facilities, and accessibility for those with limited mobility. Skip the ticket office line and effortlessly present your smartphone ticket to the welcoming crew upon boarding. Capture unforgettable moments with stunning photos of the Windy City as you revel in this remarkable experience!

Getting there

Wendella Tours & Cruises

400 N Michigan Ave Suite C100, Chicago, IL , United States, 60611

Select date and session

No booking fees

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• Tours and Activities

45 Minute River Cruise Architecture Tour of Chicago

Enjoy This 45 Minute Fascinating Architectural River Cruise Across All Three Branches of the Chicago River

• • 45 Minute Architectural Chicago River Cruise
• • Admire Chicago’s Most Iconic Architecture
• • Family Friendly Cruise Across Chicago River

Why We Love This Unique Experience

Chicago Experience Gifts: View Chicago's architectural highlights with this 45-minute Boat Cruise from Michigan Avenue.

Chicago is a city skyline full of jaw-dropping architectural delights with its distinctive skyscrapers ranging from art deco to contemporary styles. This 45-Minute tour visits the most condense section of the river for architecture and is perfect for families with children who would prefer a shorter boat ride. Take in the amazing sites of the Carbide and Carbon Building, Tribune Tower, Civic Opera Building, Willis Tower and the Aqua Tower among others. You won’t be able to believe how many magnificent buildings this city contains and children will simply love gazing up at all the giant, towering skyscrapers. This will be one of the best activities you take part in during a trip to the city of Chicago.

This 45-Minute Boat Tour of Chicago’s Architectural Highlights would a great Mother’s Day or Father’s Day gift for that family planning a trip to Chicago, or a unique sightseeing experience for solo travellers.

Points Of Interest and Landmarks

• Carbide and Carbon Building
• Tribune Tower
• Civic Opera Building
• 35 East Wacker
• Willis Tower
• Chicago Harbor Lighthouse
• Lake Michigan

Check Availability & Book

Experience overview:.

Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length architecture tours. 

> More Experience Gifts in Chicago

Details & important info, additional experience details & important information.

Drinks & Snacks

• Full-service bar with wine, local beer, and craft cocktails, as well as an assortment of snacks which you can all purchase onboard. 
• Changing tables as well as restrooms are onboard for your comfort. 

Expert Guide

• During your experience you will have the chance to have a knowledgeable guide to stay entertained and learn about the area.

Climate-Controlled Lounge

• Keeping you cool when it's warm and warm when it's cool (or freezing).

Cancellations & Refunds

Reservation changes, cancellations & refunds.

Changes to reservations for tickets can be made until 1 days prior to the date scheduled. Reservations may be re-scheduled by the operator of the activity due to reasons such as weather, minimum participation requirements, mechanical issues or other interruptions beyond their control.

All gift certificate sales are final and not refundable. Gift certificates can only be exchanged prior to redemption.

A full list of terms of sale of tickets and certificates can be viewed here .

Organized by

Wendella tours & cruises.

Wendella Tours & Cruises is Chicago's premiere fleet of world-class sightseeing boats. For over 80 years, we’ve provided visitors and locals alike with the ultimate Chicago experience. Offering authentic Chicago River & Lake Michigan tours and cruises, we blend nostalgia for Chicago’s rich history with modern experiences to provide a fun day on the water. Each Wendella vessel includes a climate-controlled cabin, full-service bar, comfortable restrooms and an open air upper deck. Each tour is led by a local expert in Chicago history and architecture. 

Product SKU: US-0831-0004 Google Business Profile: Wendella Tours & Cruises

Chicago Architecture Boat Tour

How it works, best experience providers.

Our Activity Partners are highly rated and experts in what they do, guaranteeing you an unforgettable experience.

Free Gift Exchanges

All ExperienceGifts Certificates are fully exchangeable if you change your mind, free of charge!

Instant E-Gifts

Our beautifully designed e-certificates are sent instantly the moment you place an order, great for last minute gifts.

• Architecture River Tour

Windy City wow

World-famous landmarks.

There’s nothing quite like seeing Chicago’s world-famous architecture from all three branches of the Chicago River. From hidden treasures to the city’s most well-known sights, you’ll view over 40 Chicago landmarks on our 75-minute Architecture River Boat Tours. 

Enjoy the spectacular views as you listen to our tour guides tell you how Chicago’s buildings, architecture, and engineering made the city famous.

Adults starting at

Casting off

Our Architecture River Tours depart from two docks, one at Michigan Avenue and the other at Navy Pier. No matter which dock you depart from, you’ll see all of the spectacular sights as you tour the Chicago River.

Michigan Avenue

401 N. Michigan Ave

Steps off of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, our Michigan Avenue dock starts your tour in the heart of the Chicago River.

124 N. Streeter Drive

Start your tour down the Chicago River at our Navy Pier dock, which sits at the entrance to the iconic Navy Pier boardwalk. This dock is more accessible to wheelchairs.

Our Architecture River Tour takes you up and down the three branches of the Chicago River, providing breathtaking views of Chicago’s famous skyscrapers and landmarks at every turn.

Adults: $49.95

Children (3-12): $26.95

Children 2 and under: Free

Tour highlights:

• 75-minute, guided boat tour
• Unique views from the water create an entirely new perspective of the city
• 40+ landmarks including the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City
• Hear the stories of Chicago’s architects and engineers while viewing their magnificent buildings

Sightseeing in Chicago?

Chicago CityPASS® tickets save 48% on premier admission  to Chicago’s top 5 attractions, including the Architecture River Tour. Visit the attractions at your own pace, in any order, over a 9-day period. One easy purchase and mobile ticket delivery saves you time and money.

Now in its 83rd season, Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis.

(312) 222-9328 ext. 1 [email protected]

• Skyline Tour
• Fireworks Tour
• Water Taxis
• Buy Tickets
• Accessibility Info

Chicago River Architecture Tour

Chicago's Original Architecture Tour®

Experience the city’s legendary architecture from the best seat in the house—the river. Our experienced tour guides detail the 130 year long history behind the skyline, while our bartenders and staff keep you comfortable and entertained. This comprehensive tour navigates through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River. It’s the one thing everyone tells you to do in Chicago, done right.

Schedule & Tickets

• Adult: $44.00
• Child (4-12): $20.00
• Under 4: Free (ticket required)

TICKETS ARE NON REFUNDABLE BUT ARE TRANSFERABLE.

• Parking & Directions
• More Information
• Boarding begins 15-30 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.
• All bags are subject to inspection.
• Prohibited Items: Outside Alcohol, Weapons of any kind (Firearms, Knives, etc.), Flammables, Explosives.

Your boat includes:

Drinks & Snacks

Full-service bar with wine, local beer, and craft cocktails, as well as an assortment of snacks, all for purchase. Pinkies up!

Expert Tour Guide

Never boring, always entertaining.

Accessibility

Everyone should be able to enjoy our tours. We make sure you can.

No need to hold it. We have changing tables for the little ones who don’t know what holding it is.

Climate-Controlled Lounge

Keeping you cool when it's warm and warm when it's cool (or freezing).

*Not all amenities are available on every vessel.

BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE NOW

• City Tours >
• CAC River Cruise aboard C...

CAC River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

Best Experiences in the US

Voted #1 Boat Tour in the US

#1 Chicago Boat Tour for 10+ years

6 best tours and walks in Chicago

Led by the Chicago Architecture Center's expertly trained docent volunteers, this 90-minute cruise reveals fascinating stories behind Chicago's majestic buildings in a way no other tour can.

Northeast corner of Michigan Ave. and E. Wacker Dr ( 112 E. Wacker Drive ). Look for the black awning marking the stairway entrance. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your cruise departure time. Allow extra time for traffic and parking in summer.

Tour Highlights

Rated #1 year after year.

Learn about the architects who created our city's magnificent buildings—and the stories behind them. Along the way, you'll also hear how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world's largest cities.

This classic tour, aboard the city's most luxurious fleet, is a must for out-of-town visitors and Chicagoans alike.

Boat Amenities

About Our Boat Partner

Evening River Cruise

Serene and bathed in softer light, the city's architecture takes on a whole new life in the setting sun. Wind down and enjoy a cocktail with friends and family on our luxury boats. All departures later than 5:00 p.m.

Tour Information and Tips

• Each person must have a ticket, including infants and children. Please note that infant tickets must be purchased with an adult ticket.
• Seating is general admission.
• All tours depart rain or shine. Climate-controlled cabin is available.
• Arrive 30 minutes prior to your cruise departure time. Allow extra time for traffic and parking in summer.
• Cruise guests board 15 minutes before departure time.
• Tickets may not be refunded or exchanged if you miss your boat. Allow extra time.

Accessibility

Chicago’s First Lady Cruises works hard to ensure that everyone is able to access the beauty of their boats and enjoy a wonderful experience aboard. For the best experience, give us advance notice for any special boarding needs.

Guests with Limited Mobility – What to Expect Onboard

Handicap Accessible Boats

All our boats, except Chicago's First Lady & Chicago's Little Lady, are handicap accessible and offer a wheelchair-accessible restroom.

Seating Options

Guests who are unable to climb stairs to the upper deck may sit on the open-air bow deck or the climate-controlled cabin with large windows.

Accessing the Dock Area

For guests unable to use stairs, there are two options: an ADA-compliant ramp to the Riverwalk at Wacker Drive and State Street, or a drop-off area on the same level as our dock at Lower Lower Wacker Drive. View directions .

Assistance can be provided

Staff members will gladly take table-side drink orders for passengers with limited mobility.

Have more questions?

Please visit Chicago's First Lady or contact our tour operations team.

How to Buy Accessible Tour Tickets

Tickets for tours on accessible boats can be purchased by selecting the 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. or 5 p.m. departure times.

Wheelchairs Available for Use

For those requesting use of the company's manual wheelchair, please visit the dockside CFL River Cruise ticket office upon arrival.

Service Animals

We welcome service dogs onboard! The service animal must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered while in public places. Emotional support animals, pets and other animals not covered by ADA guidelines are not permitted. Please visit the ADA's FAQ on service animals for further details.

Boarding Ramps Available

When boarding the ship, guests cross two ramps and enter through a opening (doorway) that is 36" wide. Crew members can assist you in guiding the wheelchair across the gangway. Motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs may not board the ship; guests may utilize our manual wheelchair (based upon availability).

Who gives the tours?

All tours are given by CAC-certified  volunteer docents . Docents receive hundreds of hours of training about Chicago’s architecture and its history. They are storytellers and Chicago experts.

Where do we board the CAC River Cruise?

Meet at the Chicago’s First Lady boat dock at least 30 minutes prior to departure. The dock is located at the southeast corner of Michigan Avenue Bridge and Wacker Drive.

Look for the black awning at the stairway entrance (if using a GPS, enter 112 E. Wacker Drive ).

Are refunds or exchanges available for online ticket purchases?

Refunds and exchanges for ticket purchases are not permitted. Please double-check your dates and times before making a ticket purchase.

Is parking available?

The closest parking garage is located at  111 East Wacker Drive . CAC guests and members receive a discount on parking at this garage for up to 4 hours. You can receive a validated parking sticker at the Center box office or the dockside CFL River Cruise box office. The parking garage is open 24/7.

Several other public parking garages are available in the River North and Loop neighborhoods. You can also book convenient and affordable parking in advance through SpotHero, the nation's leading parking reservations app.

To reserve your parking spot, visit the  Chicago Architecture Center SpotHero Parking Page .

Group & Private Tours

Interested in a tour for a group? Learn more about our group and private tour options.

Fantastic views. Love the history and the facts about architecture! I highly recommend this boat tour to anyone visiting Chicago.

What an amazing tour!!! Our guide was fantastic! He was funny and knowledgeable and made the entire trip very interesting! I would highly recommend for anyone visiting the city; this is definitely one not to miss!

So worth it. This was a highlight of our trip. Just beautiful. Very interesting info, too! We learned a lot and had a great time.

Such a wonderful experience. Megan was very knowledgeable and her love and passion for her city made me fall in love with it too. Highly recommend.

Aerial view of the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady. Photo by: Barry Butler

A docent shares stories on a CAC River Cruise. Photo by: Dennis Lee Photography.

The CAC River Cruise is an annual tradition for out-of-town visitors and Chicagoans alike. Photo by: Barry Butler.

Upgrade Your Ticket to See More

Looking for the ultimate Chicago architecture experience? Add admission to the center for just $5 (regular price $14) as an event extra in your Ticketmaster cart.

take the #1 boat tour in north america

As voted by USA Today readers!

Exhibitions

On view now.

Celebrating 50 Years of Chicago Women in Architecture

Loop as Lab: Reshaping Downtowns

Chicago’s Loop is at an inflection point, emerging from the pandemic on shaky footing but also with abundant opportunity.

what’s happening at the cac today

Explore everything the Chicago Architecture Center has to offer, from tours to educational programs and exhibitions.

Bring Chicago Home

Skip the packing and ship your souvenir when you shop the CAC Design Store online.

Chicago River: 90-Min Architecture Boat Tour

About the activity

Embark on a Chicago Architecture River Tour with a professional guide. Cruise the Chicago River to explore renowned landmarks, learn about historical structures, and discover current and upcoming developments with stops at Navy Pier and Goose Island.

• Free cancellation Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Instant confirmation & Mobile tickets Receive your ticket right away. Use your phone or print your voucher.
• Live guiding English
• Duration 1.5 hours
• Boat equipped with a restroom, outside seating and fully enclosed interior with air conditioning, seats, and windows
• Food and drinks
• Discover the Wrigley Building’s dazzling white towers and historical significance
• Marvel at Willis Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world
• Explore the unique design of Aqua Tower and the vibrant Chicago Chinatown
• Pass by the iconic Merchandise Mart and the historic Navy Pier
• Learn about the city's architectural history and upcoming developments

Description

Begin your journey with a professional guide narrating as you cruise down the Chicago River. Discover the city’s most renowned landmarks, including the Civic Opera House, Trump Tower, and the Merchandise Mart. Gain historical insights and learn about current and upcoming developments in Chicago’s architectural landscape. Pass by the Wrigley Building, a hallmark of Chicago’s skyline since 1920. Marvel at its design, modeled after the Seville Cathedral’s Giralda Tower in Spain, and its dazzling white towers that illuminate the city at night. Continue to Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world, offering an impressive view of the city’s skyline. Cruise by Aqua Tower, an 82-story mixed-use residential skyscraper in the Lakeshore East development. Explore Chicago's Chinatown, an ethnic-Chinese neighborhood on the South Side. Pass the iconic Merchandise Mart, housing top home showrooms and office spaces, and the Navy Pier, a must-see attraction drawing crowds for over 100 years.

• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
• Tour times cannot be changed
• Tours are on rain or shine
• Minimum drinking age is 21 years
• Please arrive 30 min before your tour time
• Seating is first come first serve. If you have a large group, arrive early
• Child tickets (3 and under) are for free but need a registered ticket
• Youth tickets available on our main ticketing page
• Refunds will not be issued if a tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of the cruise ship
• The location is not wheelchair accessible
• Outside food and drinks are prohibited, but a full bar with snacks is available for purchase
• There is a connected marina parking lot offering discounted rates of approximately $12 to $15

Reviews & Ratings

Top 5 similar architecture cruises & boat tours in chicago.

Chicago: Architecture River Cruise Skip-the-Ticket Line

Cruise along the Chicago River on a boat tour and discover hidden architectural gems among the city’s renowned landmarks, with live narration.

• 75 minutes • Skip the line

Chicago: Family Fun Urban Adventure River and Lake Cruise

This popular 90-minute, fully narrated daytime river and lake tour delights families with incredible views of Chicago's famous architecture, stunning skyline and stories about the city's rich history.

• 1.5 hours • Guiding available

Chicago: 1.5-Hour Lake and River Architecture Cruise

Skip the ticket line for Chicago’s only architecture cruise on both Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. Learn about Chicago's internationally-known architecture from expert local guides as you discover the city from riverfront to shoreline.

• 1.5 hours • Skip the line • Guiding available

Chicago River: 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Cruise

Experience Chicago’s legendary architecture from the best seat in the house: the river. Enjoy a comprehensive tour with a live fun guide as you navigate through the heart of the city covering all 3 branches of the Chicago River.

Chicago: 45-Minute Family-Friendly Architecture River Cruise

Cruise down the Chicago River and see the city’s most spectacular landmarks on a boat cruise with live, family-friendly commentary and a full-service bar on board.

• 45 minutes • Skip the line • Guiding available

Frequently Asked Questions

Prices & booking.

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