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90-Minute Chicago River Architecture Tour

Overview
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.
City: Chicago
Wed 11 Jun
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $45.00
Wed 11 Jun
Starting at $45.00
Make a reservation
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
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
What To Expect
1
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.
2
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.
3
Merchandise Mart
The largest commercial building in the world.
4
Michigan Avenue Bridge
Michigan Avenue is home of the Chicago Water Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the shopping on the Magnificent Mile.
5
Wrigley Building
This white, terra-cotta landmark was built in 1922 as headquarters for the Wrigley chewing gum company.
6
Chicago Riverwalk
An open, pedestrian waterfront called the city's 'Second Lakefront.'
7
Lyric Opera of Chicago
Second-largest opera auditorium in North America, with an Art Deco interior
8
Marina City
Pass by these iconic mixed-use apartment buildings - "a city within a city" with their unique corn-cob exterior.
Show 5 more stops
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Traveler Photos
Reviews (1000)
Cameron_M
Mar 2025
Definitely want to get there and get in line early. The tour guide was cool and funny while being very intelligent of the surrounding buildings and their history.
Susan_G
Mar 2025
This was a wonderful 90 minute trip on the Chicago River. The boat ride was smooth, there were facilities on board, and the views were spectacular. The narration on the history and architecture was fascinating.
JANICEANDROD
Mar 2025
Very interesting tour and the guide was great. Recommend getting there early to get a top deck seat! Amazing views. Time went by fast it was so amazing

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