About the place
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! 🎉
February 2026
Tess was very informative and I learned so much
Amazing experience to know about...
The ride was very good. At first, I was worried because it wasn't clear which company was offering the tour. I had to review 3 emails from TripAdvisor to find out, not even the digital tickets say the name of the company. Besides that, the tour experience was great. Our tour guide (Zach or Zack?) was really great and attentive. You can tell he has mastered the tour by the speed at which he delivers information about each building. We went on a cloudy day, which was quite good to be on deck. Bring some warm clothes with you because the wind is cold.
Inclusions & Exclusions
🏙️ Explore a wide range of architectural styles, from historic to contemporary, showcasing Chicago's design evolution.
📚 Learn about the city's rich history, including key events and figures that shaped its architectural landscape.
🌊 Navigate through all three branches of the Chicago River, providing unique perspectives of the city.
🖼️ Capture stunning views of iconic buildings and landmarks, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
🌟 Ideal for both architecture aficionados and casual tourists, making it an enriching experience for all.
🎉 Suitable for visitors of all ages, ensuring a fun outing for families, friends, and groups.
Itinerary
1
Wendella
Chicago, United States
Vessels depart from Wendella's docks at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge (DuSable Bridge), at the foot of the Wrigley Building.
2
Centennial Fountain And Water Arc
Chicago, United States
Dedicated in 1989 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, known for reversing the flow of the Chicago River in 1900. For the first five minutes of every hour, the fountain shoots a water arc across the river from a tiered waterfall.
3
Merchandise Mart
Chicago, United States
Merchandise Mart
4
Michigan Avenue Bridge
Chicago, United States
Hear the history of the bridge.
5
Wrigley Building
Chicago, United States
Taste Chicago's iconic deep dish pizza at one of our most beloved pizza restaurants, and see the first major skyscraper north of the Chicago River.
6
Chicago Riverwalk
Chicago, United States
Learn about the history of the Riverwalk.
7
Lyric Opera of Chicago
Chicago, United States
Lyric Opera
8
Marina City
Chicago, United States
Highlights include Marina City, a mixed-use residential-commercial building designed by architect Bertrand Goldberg, envisioned as an urban experiment designed to draw middle-class Chicagoans back to the city after more than a decade of suburban migration.
9
Wendella
Chicago, United States
Vessels depart from Wendella's docks at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge (DuSable Bridge), at the foot of the Wrigley Building.
10
Centennial Fountain And Water Arc
Chicago, United States
Dedicated in 1989 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, known for reversing the flow of the Chicago River in 1900. For the first five minutes of every hour, the fountain shoots a water arc across the river from a tiered waterfall.
11
Merchandise Mart
Chicago, United States
Merchandise Mart
12
Michigan Avenue Bridge
Chicago, United States
Hear the history of the bridge.
13
Wrigley Building
Chicago, United States
Taste Chicago's iconic deep dish pizza at one of our most beloved pizza restaurants, and see the first major skyscraper north of the Chicago River.
14
Chicago Riverwalk
Chicago, United States
Learn about the history of the Riverwalk.
15
Lyric Opera of Chicago
Chicago, United States
Lyric Opera
16
Marina City
Chicago, United States
Highlights include Marina City, a mixed-use residential-commercial building designed by architect Bertrand Goldberg, envisioned as an urban experiment designed to draw middle-class Chicagoans back to the city after more than a decade of suburban migration.
Additional Information
🚍 Public transportation options are available nearby for easy access to the tour location.
🏋️♂️ Suitable for participants of all physical fitness levels, making it accessible for everyone.
🔒 Weapons are prohibited as per US Coast Guard regulations for safety.
🍷 Outside alcohol is prohibited on board.
🎒 All bags are subject to search for security purposes.
⏰ Arrive 30 minutes prior to your departure time for a smooth boarding process.
🪑 Indoor and outdoor seating is available on a first come, first served basis.
Hotels near this place
400 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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