Chicago Architecture River Cruise Guided Tour

Chicago 1 hour

Make your way to either Navy Pier or Michigan Avenue (depending on option chosen) for your cruise departure. Board your riverboat and find a comfortable seat; a restroom and sometimes a full bar are available on the boat. Listen as your guide, an architecture expert, gives you an introduction to the city's landmarks.  Along the scenic route, see buildings by world-famous architects including Mies van der Rohe, Helmut Jahn, and Skidmore, Owings and Merrill. A boat on the river is the best vantage point to admire the distinct city skyline. Pass by more than 40 distinctive buildings, including the John Hancock Center, the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), the Wrigley Building, and the Lyric Opera House. Listen as your guide recounts the two major events that helped shape the architectural history of the city. Learn about how the invention of balloon-frame construction revolutionized how homes were built, and hear the dramatic story of Chicago's rise from the Great Fire of 1871. Both of these milestones led Chicago to become one of the cradles of modern American architecture. Your cruise ends at its starting point.


Discover all three branches of the Chicago River with your guide, an expert in architecture

Enjoy the best vantage point to admire the distinct city skyline and architecture

See more than 40 buildings including the Wrigley Building and Willis Tower

Discover the major events that helped shape the architectural history of Chicago

Live commentary on board

Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River

Exclusions

Drinks (available for purchase)

Additional Information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • All boats have full restrooms and a full bar
  • Some boats are single deck vessels, the type of vessel you are placed on cannot be guaranteed
  • Wheelchairs or other walking assistance equipment are not provided.
  • Tour times cannot be changed.
  • Departure locations cannot be changed
  • Beginning November 6, 2023 through April 2024, tours will be 60 minutes in length.
  • Cruises are dog-friendly
318 Lower North Water Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60611 Get directions

A full refund will apply if you cancel more than a day before the activity start time.

No refund is possible if you cancel less than a day before the activity start time.

Guide Languages

  • English
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