Chicago Architecture River Cruise | 1 hour

14058 Reviews | Chicago
From $48.78 per person Lowest Price Guarantee
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Adult (13-99) Minimum: 1, Maximum: 15
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Child (3-12) Minimum: 0, Maximum: 15
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Free Cancellation For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Inclusions / Exclusions

  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English, Spanish
  • Pet-friendly
  • Restroom on board
  • Live expert commentary on board
  • Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River
  • Drinks (available for purchase)
  • WiFi on board

Overview

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.

Meeting points

Select a meeting point

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

  • Chicago River

    Cruise takes place on the Chicago River.

    1 hour

  • Chicago Skyline (Pass By)

    Enjoy an amazing view of the city's skyline.

  • Navy Pier (Pass By)

    50 acres of parks, promenades, gardens, shops, eateries and attractions, including a 15-story Ferris wheel.

  • Tribune Tower (Pass By)

    The neo-gothic tower's signature is the exterior collection of stones from other famous edifices, like the Parthenon, St. Peter's Basilica, Notre Dame, the White House and most recently, the Berlin Wall.

  • John Hancock Center (Pass By)

    The John Hancock Center, is a 100-story, 1,128-foot supertall skyscraper

  • Marina City (Pass By)

    The twin corncob towers are a unique part of Chicago’s urban landscape.

  • Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower (Pass By)

    Once the tallest building in the world, it's a striking presence in the skyline.

  • Aqua Tower (Pass By)

    Notable for its wave-like balconies, it's a modern architectural wonder.

Sample Menu

Additional Info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • 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.

Free Cancellation

April 25100% refund
April 26No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews

4.8

14058 reviews

Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews
  • 5 stars
    12680
  • 4 stars
    918
  • 3 stars
    203
  • 2 stars
    82
  • 1 star
    175

Reviews by TravelOne travelers

Showing 1-5 of 12680 reviews with 5 stars

Day trip from LA to Chicago Part1

Published on Jan, 2025

Beautiful Skyline…. Rich history… smooth… peaceful… nice for fall season visitors…, knowledgeable tour guides … pre purchase tix if you can ! There are links to websites posted at the dock were you may attain tix…

Excellent commentary

Published on Jan, 2025

Excellent commentary of waterway and buildings with all surrounding areas. Guide was very personable and energetic. Would definitely recommend to anyone visiting Chicago.

AMAZING

Published on Jan, 2025

This was included in our City Pass. We took the boat at 4:00 pm approximately and it was the ideal time to do so, because on our way to the Pier it was dawning and the light was spectacular… and then, on our way back it was already nighttime, so the moment the boat turned around to make its way back, it was a breathtaking surprise to see the skyline change. Our tour guide was extremely kind, charismatic, well-informed and well-spoken. We understood everything perfectly, despite the fact that English is not our first language. He made jokes but wasn’t over the top with the humor, it still felt professional and enjoyable. Also, since it was around Christmas time, they gave us a complementary candy cane at the entrance. We enjoyed it a lot despite the cold weather. Actually, I’d say it was one of the highlights of our trip to Chicago. Be sure to reserve your place ahead of time though, as it can get pretty crowded on the holidays and the high seasons. The information given on the tour covers everything: history, architecture, film locations, pop culture and so on. I think it is a very complete experience to understand Chicago. I loved every second of it!

So so worth it.

Published on Jan, 2025

My third time on this tour with different people. Always a blast. It so amazing how there are so many different styles of buildings in one city. And this is a great way to enjoy.

Must do

Published on Jan, 2025

This was a lot of fun, educational, and filled beautiful views. The architecture there is world class and the fact you are able to experience it in this awesome way a core memory!I highly recommend the sunset trip. I will do it again when I’m in town. The tour guide was fun and informative. Make sure that you wear a jacket!!

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