Must Visit Chicago Architecture Tours

Our popular 90-minute daytime river and lake tour, the Urban Adventure Cruise, delights family members of all ages with incredible views of Chicago's world-renowned architecture and stunning skyline. Lively, knowledgeable tour guides bring Chicago’s rich history to life with fun stories and interesting facts. Relax and unwind on a scenic tour of the city from the unique perspective of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Welcome aboard!

The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady has long been the gold standard among all Chicago tour experiences, and is the only Chicago architecture boat tour led by highly trained expert docents. On this 90-minute cruise, you will enjoy an overview of historic and modern architectural styles including stories about the people who designed and built Chicago. As a certified nonprofit, all ticket purchases directly support education efforts and community engagement projects. No visit to Chicago is complete without experiencing this award winning tour, so accept no substitutes.

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.

Set sail on the Chicago River with an exclusive vibe on a vintage yacht!🛥️ It's the Chicago essential with a twist – glide past the river's stunning skyline and dive into the tales of over 50 iconic buildings.🏙️ We dish out all the deets on their architecture and history, making sure you finish your cruise feeling like a Chi-Town pro. Get your tickets for the Chicago River Architecture Tour Aboard a Historic Yacht!

Be inspired by the captivating visual art that is Chicago’s legendary architecture, and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy! 🏙️ This comprehensive 90-minute tour navigates through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River. 🚤 Your professionally-trained architectural guide will share the story of more than 130 years of innovation in design, style, and technique. 🏛️ Discover why this architectural heritage is important today. 🌟 The Chicago River Architecture Tour is the most authentic and encompassing experience the city has to offer! 🎉

Discover the architectural wonders of Chicago on our Private Chicago Architecture Tour! 🏙️ Despite the Great Fire over a century ago, Chicago is celebrated as the birthplace of the modern skyscraper. 🌟 Explore iconic sites, including the Sears “Willis” Tower, John Hancock Building, and Gothic gems. 🏛️ Stroll along the Magnificent Mile and admire historic brownstones and Frank Lloyd Wright homes in Oak Park. 🏡 Our tour offers a unique opportunity to not only view these masterpieces from the outside but also explore their interiors. 🗝️ Perfect for architecture enthusiasts, this experience will satisfy even the most discerning travelers!

Get ready for an electrifying journey through the heart of Chicago's Magnificent Mile!✨ Join a certified guide on an exhilarating 1.5-hour walking tour that will leave you breathless. Prepare to be captivated by the jaw-dropping architecture that surrounds you, from the towering skyscrapers to the luxurious residential towers.🔥 Unveil the hidden secrets behind these iconic structures and marvel at the perfect fusion of historical and modern designs. Brace yourself for an explosion of artistic styles, from Parisian grandeur to Gothic magnificence and the dazzling allure of Art Deco.🤌🏻 Don't miss out on this absolute must-do experience that will transport you into the true essence of the Magnificent Mile. Get now your tickets to Architecture of the Magnificent Mile!

An authentic Chicago tradition since 1935, this is the tour that started it all! 🌟 This unique excursion tells the story of more than 200 years of fascinating social, cultural, and political history 📜, and explores over a century of groundbreaking architecture. 🏛️ The journey begins with an up-close perspective of Chicago's internationally known architecture as seen from the Chicago River. 🚤 Then, venture through the Chicago Lock onto the calm, cool waters of Lake Michigan for expansive views of Chicago's extraordinary 26-mile skyline. 🌅 Take the selfie of a lifetime on this inspirational experience! 📸

This tour explores some of the best hidden details, secret buildings and spaces, and untold stories that add wonderful bits of color and texture to the overall narrative of Chicago. On this tour, we will explore the famous and mysterious Chicago Pedway, a system of underground tunnels connecting 40 blocks downtown, popping in and out of buildings to see beautiful and fascinating interior spaces. You'll learn to use this system that most locals don't even fully know or use, and you'll be encouraged to continue exploring Chicago on your own after the tour!

Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length architecture tours. Hop aboard our world class vessels as our local authentic tour guides showcase our amazing city.