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)
4 stars
5 stars
Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers
Barbara_H, 10/27/2025 6:23:26 PM
It is almost Halloween and windier on the water so a hat is useful.. The guide was clear and lively, lots of interesting information and terrific views of the skyscrapers.
Liz_A, 10/27/2025 6:12:29 PM
Very informative!! Our guide was well versed on the history of Chicago, loved his sense of humor. A must do!!
Susan_W, 10/27/2025 5:23:29 PM
My husband, adult granddaughter and I, chose this particular boat ride due to their reviews and the location for boarding. This definitely was the highlight of our trip. Kenny was our guide and he was knowledgeable and humorous. Book it with these guys- you won’t regret it!!
Karin_S, 10/27/2025 4:18:19 PM
Worth every penny. Relaxing, informative and beautiful tour of the city. Our tour guide was fabulous!
Gary_H, 10/27/2025 3:47:06 PM
The cruise on Chicago’s waterways was informative and entertaining. Kenny the guide is a budding comedian, but his historical and social commentary lost nothing for that fact. I loved the random quizzes of his audience he conducted periodically. Altogether a pleasant way to spend a morning, despite the icy wind.
Jeffee_P, 10/27/2025 3:09:07 PM
You can get snacks and drinks downstairs. There is also a bathroom there. The tour guide is very entertaining!
Bridget_M, 10/27/2025 2:58:03 PM
Wendell’s tour boat was open as well as covered. It rained off and on so being on a boat with a rain protected seating was a real plus.
Joel_R, 10/27/2025 2:16:18 PM
This was our 2nd time doing this tour and it’s always a must do! Seeing the city from the river is the best way to experience the beauty of Chicago!
Vishnudas_K, 10/27/2025 11:29:10 AM
It's a must try. The best boat tour I ever have visited. 90 mins of architecture beauty and drinks..
Rebecca_C, 10/27/2025 10:26:56 AM
Great experience to see a fun part of Chicago and get some history of the city. Bathrooms were nice and clean. Give yourself some extra time to find parking. We missed our tour due to driving around trying to find parking. They graciously scheduled us on the next tour.
- 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