Unforgettable Chicago Architecture Cruise: Skyline Secrets
Experience the stunning beauty of Chicago on a captivating cruise along the historic Chicago River. This architectural tour takes you down the main branch of the river, up the north branch to the East Bank Club, and then south past the iconic Willis Tower (Sears Tower) to the historic Old Post Office Building. Marvel at the magnificent city skyline as you pass by over 40 notable buildings, including: John Hancock Center: An iconic skyscraper that defines the Chicago skyline. Wrigley Building: Known for its distinctive white facade and clock tower. As you sail, an expert architecture guide will provide fascinating insights into the distinctive designs and history of these architectural marvels. Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time, this tour offers a unique perspective on one of the world's most beautiful cities. Sit back, relax, and let the architectural wonders of Chicago unfold before your eyes.
Reviews
Reviews and Rating (Tripadvisor)
5 stars
Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers
TRB46, 11/2/2025 10:48:48 PM
We really enjoyed the time on our cruise. The host was very knowledgeable, and her humor was a great addition. It was fair price for the amount of time of the boat. We had been scheduled on a later cruise and happened to walk by, and mentioned it wasn't time for our cruise yet, and they welcomed us on the earlier boat since they had room which was great for our scheduled events later in the day. I would definitely recommend it to friends and family!
Elizabeth_L, 11/2/2025 10:11:50 PM
This was worth every penny. It was a perfect tour and so insightful! It was well organized and the staff was super knowledgable.
Luis_G, 11/2/2025 8:54:55 PM
A very nice and comfortable vessel - a wonderfully scripted tour, and - if you get Kevin - a master tour guide, entertainer and, above all, proud Chicagoan who will have you love his city as much as he does.
Josh_C, 11/2/2025 8:16:45 PM
Chicago Bob was a great tour guide with great insights and jokes. We thoroughly enjoyed the time aboard and even got to enjoy a hot toddy and hot chocolate.
Santix13, 11/2/2025 8:09:27 PM
Very entertaining, the speaker had a lot of stories and details to share at the same time as making the key architecture differences of some buildings easy to understand for people who don't know much about architecture.
jlwayman, 11/2/2025 7:16:27 PM
Spectacular 90 minute review of entire recorded history of Chicago as manifest through sites and buildings along the river. Well worth every minute and every penny. Tour guide Kent was an amazingly knowledgeable communicator.
joellenb306, 11/2/2025 5:27:23 PM
Amazing experience. Victor was an incredible host. His knowledge of the Chicago downtown skyline architecture was astounding. He was also very entertaining. I will recommend this excursion to friends and family.
Kelly P, 11/2/2025 5:17:34 PM
Victor, our extraordinary guide, took us on a spectacular tour of the amazing architecture of Chicago. Victor was knowledgeable and passionate about the architecture and it was obvious he has a deep passion for architecture and the history of Chicago. I enjoyed it so much and highly recommend it for everyone.
Chad_C, 11/2/2025 5:06:04 PM
Very fun, the views were amazing and the tour guide was so knowledgeable. The boat had a bar on it as well which I enjoyed
Tamara_M, 11/2/2025 5:04:08 PM
Great Travel guide! She was so knowledgeable and quite humorous. We learned so much about the city and it's architecture.
- 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.
- Beginning November 11, 2024 through April 2025, tours will be 60 minutes in length.
- Cruises are dog-friendly.
- Tours can be rescheduled through Viator 24 hours prior to the departure dates.
- Wheelchair accessible from Navy Pier dock only.
Departure point
FROM NAVY PIER: Departs from 124 N Streeter Drive from the Shoreline Sightseeing docks at Polk Bros Park.Return details
Experience the stunning beauty of Chicago on a captivating cruise along the historic Chicago River. This architectural tour takes you down the main branch of the river, up the north branch to the East Bank Club, and then south past the iconic Willis Tower (Sears Tower) to the historic Old Post Office Building. Marvel at the magnificent city skyline as you pass by over 40 notable buildings, including: John Hancock Center: An iconic skyscraper that defines the Chicago skyline. Wrigley Building: Known for its distinctive white facade and clock tower. As you sail, an expert architecture guide will provide fascinating insights into the distinctive designs and history of these architectural marvels. Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time, this tour offers a unique perspective on one of the world's most beautiful cities. Sit back, relax, and let the architectural wonders of Chicago unfold before your eyes.Redemption
PLEASE NOTE: THERE ARE 2 DIFFERENT DEPARTURE LOCATIONS FOR THIS PRODUCT DEPENDING ON OPTION BOOKED! MAKE SURE YOU GO TO THE LOCATION THAT MATCHES THE OPTION YOU CHOSE (EITHER 401 N. MICHIGAN AVENUE OR NAVY PIER) Beginning November 11, 2024 through April 2025, tours will be 60 minutes in length. Once order has been submitted, no changes can be made. Additional passengers need to make a separate reservation. This is your ticket. Please proceed directly to the boarding line of the boat and a Shoreline greeter in bright orange will assist you. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure time. Public parking ramp is located 316 E. Illinois St, Chicago IL 60611. Parking is an additional fee.24 hours before travel date - 100% refund
Less than 24 hours before travel date - 0% refund