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.

enjoyed everything about the tour - no negative feedback at all

Kenny was great! Tour was way more interesting than I expected. Recommending to others that I have discussed my trip with.

Wonderful trip on the river with knowledgable quide taking us through all interesting buildings and history of Chicago. Highly recommended

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
19 March 2025
4
United States
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
25 June 2024
5
United States
T
TUI Musement Traveler
30 May 2024
5
United States