Unforgettable Chicago River Architecture Cruise: Masterpiece Views!
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.
Reviews
Reviews and Rating (Tripadvisor)
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Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers
Thomas_S, 10/30/2025 10:10:26 AM
WINDY but tour was excellent. Tour guide was splendid. Crisp voice. Temperature was a bit chilly but it was late October
David_B, 10/30/2025 6:48:22 AM
Do not miss this tour. Great way to see Chicago and learn about the cities history whilst getting a unique perspective of the beautiful skyline. Best time to do this tour is over sunset to see the buildings all lit up once the sun goes down is awesome. The guide on board, Zach, was excellent, super informative and funny.
Ebony_G, 10/29/2025 1:00:03 AM
Our tour guide was funny, knowledgeable and friendly....Scotty D was AMAZING!!!...We laughed so much and learned more about the city of Chicago .....I would recommend this tour and I would do it again.
Ummulkhayer_S, 10/28/2025 8:09:21 PM
100% worth the experience. Made my first Chicago trip so special, and I would do it again when I get the chance to go back.
Allen_S, 10/28/2025 1:09:47 PM
Incredible tour. Our tour guide, John, was excellent and super knowledgeable. This is a great way to get to know the city, find out more about it's history, and get some great jokes/laughs along the way. Would 100% recommend this tour to others.
Mina_D, 10/28/2025 11:18:46 AM
This is a must ! But, bring warm clothes. Our tour guide was so informative. I now feel like a local!
Sofia_A, 10/28/2025 10:22:49 AM
Very good experience . In autumn and winter take your hat and extra jacket it gets cold and windy in the boat
Sharon_P, 10/28/2025 10:16:24 AM
It did NOT disappoint … many people recommended and now I know why. Staff was great and the experience was a great balance of informative, amusing, and relaxing.
Glynn_M, 10/27/2025 11:42:59 PM
Tour guide was excellent and very funny. Was very educational. Wind proof jacket a must in late October
Andrea_S, 10/27/2025 10:46:24 PM
You should hand out an outline of the building's that will be pointed out with the names. It was difficult to take photo's as the boat went too fast and was too crowded.
- 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
Departure point
Arrive at 400 N Michigan Avenue 30 minutes before your departure and you will be directed to your boarding dock. Please allow yourself plenty of time to arrive if driving. We do not have parking. It is recommend that you book parking in advance.Return details
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.Redemption
Your ticket will be scanned from your phone, so you do not need to exchange anything at the window. All guests need a ticket to board, including children & infants. The closest address to most docks is 400 N Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60611 (near the Wrigley Building). From there you can check in with an employee who can direct you to your boarding area. You must arrive at least 30 minutes before the departure time to be directed to your dock. If driving, note that Downtown Chicago traffic can be slow and congested. Please allow yourself plenty of time for traffic and parking if driving. Wendella does not have parking. We recommend that you park at InterPark Public Parking located at 430 N Rush Street, Chicago, IL 60611. Wendella guests may park for up to 8 hours at a discounted rate of $14.00 with a parking chaser coupon from our ticket office. You may also park at Trump International Hotel & Tower located at 401 N Wabash, Chicago, Il 60611. Wendella guests may park for up to 6 hours at a discounted rate of $18.00 with a parking chaser coupon from our ticket office. Parking is subject to availability and will fill up on holidays and weekends. If these lots are full, you are responsible for booking your own parking. We cannot validate parking booking in advance. If you are late due to traffic, parking, etc., you must contact us before your departure time to discuss your rescheduling options. If you arrive late, with no notice, you will not be compensated or rescheduled. Please plan accordingly. Some docks require that you walk down many stairs to the boarding area. If you need an ADA-accessible dock, please call us at 312-337-1446 with at least 24 hours’ notice. Seating is general admission and is based on a first-come, first-served basis. Alcohol & weapons are prohibited. All bags are subject to search. Tours are rarely cancelled due to weather and are only cancelled if weather conditions are unsafe (tornado warnings, extreme ice or subzero temps, etc.)24 hours before travel date - 100% refund
Less than 24 hours before travel date - 0% refund