Sightseeing Cruises

Chicago River Architecture Cruise

4.8/5(552)

Ma U

Group

Verified booking

5 days ago

Our boat tour in Chicago was such a wonderful experience! From the moment we stepped on board, everything felt organized, relaxing, and enjoyable. The views of the Chicago skyline from the water were absolutely breathtaking, and it was amazing to see the city from such a different perspective. The architecture was definitely the highlight, and seeing the famous buildings along the river while learning about their history made the experience even more special. The tour guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and entertaining. They shared interesting stories and facts about Chicago’s architecture, history, and landmarks without making the tour feel overwhelming. The pace was perfect, giving us plenty of time to take pictures, enjoy the scenery, and simply take in the beautiful surroundings. The boat itself was comfortable, clean, and provided great views throughout the entire tour. It was also nice to have a relaxing break from walking around the city while still being able to explore and learn about Chicago. Overall, I highly recommend this boat tour to anyone visiting Chicago, whether it’s your first time in the city or you’re a local looking for something fun to do. It was relaxing, informative, and memorable. Definitely an experience I would love to do again!

Discover Chicago's architectural wonders on a guided cruise along the Chicago River with live commentary.

As you set sail, enjoy insights from your local guide on Chicago's architectural heritage.

Take the cruise to gain a deeper appreciation of Chicago's legacy by exploring its most famous landmarks from a unique vantage point on the river.

See over 50 landmarks, including the Wrigley Building, Chicago Riverwalk, Michigan Avenue Bridge, and Willis Tower, offering a blend of educational insights and comfort.

Choose to upgrade from a 45-min cruise to a 60-min or a 90-min cruise for a more in-depth exploration of Chicago's history.

45-minute narrated architecture boat tour along the Chicago River (as per option selected)

60-minute narrated architecture boat tour along the Chicago River (as per option selected)

90-minute narrated architecture boat tour along the Chicago River (as per option selected)

Expert English-speaking guide

Access to the upper deck for fresh air and views

Access to the climate-controlled lower deck lounge

Full-service bar onboard (available for purchase with a valid ID)

Food and beverages (available for purchase at the bar)

Parking fees

Refunds or transfers after the scheduled departure time

Gratuities

TOTAL DURATION45 minutes
1 Boarding point
Wendella's Michigan Avenue Docks
Get direction
Sights covered
London Guarantee Building
TOTAL DURATION1 hour 15 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
2 Boarding points
Michigan Avenue
Get direction
Sights covered
Tribune Tower
TOTAL DURATION1 hour 30 minutes
1 Boarding point
Wendella's Michigan Avenue Docks
Get direction
Sights covered
Lake Point Tower

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

552 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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Guests from Canada, Mexico, Ireland and over 35 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Ma U
Group
Verified booking
5 days ago
Our boat tour in Chicago was such a wonderful experience! From the moment we stepped on board, everything felt organized, relaxing, and enjoyable. The views of the Chicago skyline from the water were absolutely breathtaking, and it was amazing to see the city from such a different perspective. The architecture was definitely the highlight, and seeing the famous buildings along the river while learning about their history made the experience even more special. The tour guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and entertaining. They shared interesting stories and facts about Chicago’s architecture, history, and landmarks without making the tour feel overwhelming. The pace was perfect, giving us plenty of time to take pictures, enjoy the scenery, and simply take in the beautiful surroundings. The boat itself was comfortable, clean, and provided great views throughout the entire tour. It was also nice to have a relaxing break from walking around the city while still being able to explore and learn about Chicago. Overall, I highly recommend this boat tour to anyone visiting Chicago, whether it’s your first time in the city or you’re a local looking for something fun to do. It was relaxing, informative, and memorable. Definitely an experience I would love to do again!
Melodie K
Family
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
My husband and I took our visiting grandchildren ages 6 1/2 and 10 1/2 on this River cruise. It was a perfect family outing both educational, interesting, and entertaining. As Chicago residents we still learned things about the city and its architecture we did not know. The staff was pleasant, the guide/narrator was upbeat, professional, and cornily funny! The boat was clean and well-maintained. I would highly recommend.
Avishay G
Group
Verified booking
5 days ago
The cruise was phenomenal. The sites themselves were well chosen for a shorter tour (I did one of the full length ones before) and the guide was knowledgeable, passionate and amusing. Not to mention that it was incredibly affordable. Even my skeptical friend who I dragged along for the experience had a blast. . I highly recommend this tour!
Brian T
Couple
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
Our guide was fantastic. The 45 minute cruise seemed like just the right amount of time to see and learn about the buildings most tourists with a casual interest in Chicago architecture would enjoy. Would do the cruise again, especially on a nice weather day.
Carla S
Family
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
My family all went on the cruise, from 3 years to 92 years of age. 45 min was enough for the children and all of us were filled with interesting facts. Just the perfect amount of time for such a varied age group. Really show cases our wonderful city.

What to bring

Carry a valid photo ID for ticket verification.

Dress according to the weather and consider bringing sunscreen if needed.

What’s not allowed

Outside food and alcohol are not permitted onboard.

Weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited on the cruise.

Accessibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible from the West Dock.

Select boats feature an elevator between decks.

ADA-compliant restrooms are available onboard.

Additional information

All bags are subject to mandatory security screening.

Children under 4 can ride for free.

Snacks and beverages are available for purchase on board.

The tour operates rain or shine, with most boats offering climate-controlled indoor seating.

Guests should arrive 45 minutes before departure, with boarding typically starting 15 to 30 minutes prior.

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.

Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.