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Architecture cruise on the Chicago River from Michigan Ave

4.7/5
19 reviews

This 60-minute sightseeing cruise is led by a professional guide who shares exciting details and historical significance of the buildings that line the Chicago River. Boarding at the dock on Michigan Avenue, you'll sail down all three branches of the Chicago River - the main branch, north branch and south branch.

While on the main branch, you'll marvel at the works of Bertrand Goldberg and Jeanne Gang. Afterward, reach the north branch and witness the vast contrast in how architecture on the Chicago River has changed over time. Enjoy amazing photo opportunities at Wolf Point, and then sail down the south branch where you'll see Chicago's iconic Willis Tower. You'll even hear the dramatic story of how Chicago rose from the ashes of the Great Fire of 1871.

Buildings along the tour: 35 East Wacker, 222 North LaSalle, 225 West Wacker, 311 South Wacker, 333 North Michigan, 333 West Wacker, 401 North Michigan, Aon Center, Apple Store, Aqua, Boeing World Headquarters, Central US Post Office, Chicago Board of Trade, Cityfront Center, Civic Opera Building, East Bank Club, Fulton House, IBM Building, Jewelers Building, John Hancock Center, Lake Point Tower, LaSalle-Wacker Building, Leo Burnett Building, London Guarantee Building, Marina City, Merchandise Mart, Montgomery Ward Complex, Navy Pier, NBC Tower Chicago, Plaza Citicorp Center, Prudential Plaza, RR Donnelley Center, River City, River Cottages, Tribune Tower, Trump Tower, USG Building Riverside, Willis Tower (Sears Tower).

Main features

Free cancellation
Place: Chicago
Duration: 1 hour
Language:English
Mobile voucher accepted

Additional features

Instant confirmation
Guided Tour
e-Voucher
Group tour
Pet friendly

Why you’ll love this…

  • Admire Chicago's amazing urban architecture from the Chicago River
  • View works of Bertrand Goldberg, Jeanne Gang and Mies van der Rohe
  • Take stunning photos of the picturesque skyline at Wolf Point

Important to know

Know in advance:

  • Tours last 75 minutes, except in the months of March, April, and November, when tours last 60 minutes
  • Restrooms are located on the boat's lower deck, and are only accessible by stairs
  • Please note that upper decks are open-air
  • Leashed dogs are welcome on the tour
  • This tour is only available in English

Cancellation policy

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


What’s included

  • Professional narration of tour highlights

What’s not included

  • Food and drinks (available on most tours)

Booking fee

We know that nobody likes extra fees. But not only do they cover the cost of managing your booking, they let us give you 24/7 customer service and a free app that to access your tickets and discover more city sights.


Location

Michigan Avenue – 401 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

Meeting point:

The meeting point is the flagship Apple Store located at the dock.

Provider

SHORELINE SIGHTSEEING


What people say about this experience

4.7/5

All reviews are verified

Based on 19 reviews


74%
21%
5%
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Sort by:

  • T

    TUI Musement Traveler

    September 28, 2025
    5

    United States of America

    The tour was amazing. It was a beautiful day. The tour guide was knowledgeable and engaging. Definitely worth it!

  • T

    TUI Musement Traveler

    July 11, 2025
    5

    United States of America

  • T

    TUI Musement Traveler

    May 24, 2024
    3

    United States of America

    Our electronic tickets were refused. Told us they were for Wendella Went to Wendella and they confirmed tickets were for Shoreline Tours and not Wendella. My wife is handicapped and we were not able to return to Shoreline. We are seeking a refund.

  • T

    TUI Musement Traveler

    May 13, 2024
    5

    United States of America

    Our tour guide was amazing! I am not even interested in architecture, and yet it was super fascinating! Enjoyed it a ton!

  • T

    TUI Musement Traveler

    June 14, 2023
    5

    United States of America

    Docent was very informative and funny. Made the experience very pleasurable

  • T

    TUI Musement Traveler

    October 30, 2022
    5

    United States of America

    Tour was fun and Courtney was amazing! So funny and full of interesting information. Highly recommend this boat tour!!

Need a hand?

Would you like some help making a booking? Or perhaps you just want to ask a few questions. Whatever the reason, don't hesitate to get in touch.

Opening hours: Our team is available from 10.00 to 18.00 CET

Phone number: +1 208-744-6464