Have you ever thought about going on an architecture tour on a boat? Experience Chicago's architectural wonders from the river.

This well-experienced tour guides you through the city's 130-year long history behind the skyline, while the bartenders and staff keep you comfortable and entertained.

This comprehensive 90-minute tour navigates through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River. This is the one thing everyone tells you to do in Chicago, done right so book your tickets now.

What travellers are saying

AI snapshot

4.8/5

Generated from real customer reviews

Summary: Expert guides and engaging narratives make the river tour exceptionally interesting, highlighting Chicago's history, architecture, and stories. However, the lower deck on the left side limits visibility, affecting some experiences. Overall, the tour is well-curated and highly recommended.
What visitors loved: Engaging and knowledgeable guides. Rich history and architecture insights. Highly recommended.
Worth knowing: Lower deck visibility can limit experience — choose wisely. Descriptions may not match lower deck views.

Why you’ll love this…

You'll experience Chicago and its architectural history from a different perspective
The boat navigates through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River
You can take advantage of the full-service bar on board for refreshments

Important to know

Accessibility:

Accessibility varies by dock and vessel. Guests with special requirements must contact the local partner at least 24 hours before departure to discuss the available options. You'll find the contact details on your voucher after booking
Service dogs are welcome on this tour

Not allowed:

Smoking, including e-cigarettes
Outside alcohol
Weapons of any kind, including firearms and knives, flammable or explosive items
Admission may be refused to anyone who appears intoxicated, impaired, or may pose a safety risk

Know in advance:

The captain may change the route if needed for guests' safety or comfort
This tour is suitable for pregnant women
All bags are subject to inspection

Remember to bring:

Weather-appropriate comfortable clothing and footwear

Cancellation policy

Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

What’s included

Tour guide
River cruise

What’s not included

Alcoholic drinks (can be purchased on site)
Food and drinks

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.

Location

400 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL, USA

Meeting point:

The Dock is located at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue (DuSable) Bridge. Please descend the stairs adjacent to the bridge to the river level. Please be at the meeting point at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

Provider

Wendella Tours & Cruises

What people say about this experience

4.8/5

All reviews are verified

Based on 16 reviews

Review categories

Value for money

5/5

Service

5/5

Safety

5/5

Staff

5/5

All ratings (16)

5 stars (13)

81%

4 stars (2)

13%

3 stars (1)

2 stars (0)

1 star (0)

J
Jeanne
Travelled with family
14 February 2026
5
United Kingdom
enjoyed everything about the tour - no negative feedback at all
T
TUI Musement Traveler
11 September 2025
5
United States
Kenny was great! Tour was way more interesting than I expected. Recommending to others that I have discussed my trip with.
T
TUI Musement Traveler
3 September 2024
5
United Kingdom
Wonderful trip on the river with knowledgable quide taking us through all interesting buildings and history of Chicago. Highly recommended
T
TUI Musement Traveler
31 October 2023
5
United States
Highly recommended tour! History. Architecture. Background stories. Ive been twice now!!
T
TUI Musement Traveler
27 June 2022
5
United States
Nice tour, very informative and interesting.
T
TUI Musement Traveler
22 June 2023
3
United States
by being on the lower deck, on the left side of the boat. all the descriptions of the buildings were to the right side of the boat. Being on the lower level definitely soured the experience some. The ride was nice though.