Sightseeing Cruises

45-min Chicago River Architecture Cruise

Chicago River cruise passing under lift bridge with skyline view

Chicago River cruise boat passing iconic skyscrapers on 45min architecture tour.

Visitors on a 90-minute Chicago River Architecture Cruise viewing iconic skyscrapers.

Chicago River cruise showcasing iconic skyline and architectural landmarks.

Duration

45 min - 1 hr 30 min

Guided tour

Mobile ticket

Spot the best of Chicago's architectural marvels, all in 45 mins on a guided river cruise.

4.7/5

(53)

Frank

Jul 2025

Verified booking

This was our first visit to Chicago and we were overwelmed. We chose the Rivercruise because the Chicago river floats right in the hart of Chicago and such a cruise offers a much better view at the intetesting buildings. Top it of with a proffesional narritor Alex and wr had a superb excursion. Very special was to see to clouds float in between the skycrapers. That made it all a kind of mystic. Very tecomendable to do this cruis Thanks Frank Hoffman (Netherlands)

Jeanette

Jul 2025

Verified booking

Stevie D. is certainly entertaining but, beyond that, he seemed very informed about the vast majority of the buildings. I don't know how many buildings he covered but it was a LOT. No problems with the boat so it was a good experience. Thanks !

Patricia

Apr 2025

Verified booking

There was a little hiccup on the timeline but when I called it's was immediately resolved so quickly that we were about to board immediately to go on the cruise of our choice. The cruise was excellent & the curator was fun and extremely knowledgeable.

Sail through the heart of Chicago on 45-min guided architecture cruise, enjoying expert commentary, gorgeous skyline views, and onboard refreshments.

Glide along all three branches of the Chicago River including the North Branch, the Main Stem, and the South Branch, as your guide shares fascinating insights into the city's 130-year architectural evolution.

Capture unobstructed views of Chicago’s iconic skyscrapers from the open-air upper deck, offering perfect photo opportunities of the cityscape.

Spot famous buildings like the Tribune Tower, Apple Store, AMA Building and the Wrigley Building.

River cruise

Expert tour guide

Food & drinks from the snack bar onboard

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

How do we collect reviews?
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Guests from Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom and over 9 countries have loved this experience
Casey
Jun, 2025Verified booking
5/5
We had a wonderful time with our tour guide. He was very informative. Had a great personality and very educational . We've told everyone about it. It started on time and we were entertained for the full 45 minutes.
Leslie
May, 2025Verified booking
4/5
I loved riding on the boat and seeing all the amazing sights. Our guide, Scott B. provided so much information about all the buildings and the city itself. It was a fascinating and exciting way to start our brief excursion to Chicago.
Christina
Jun, 2025Verified booking
5/5
The guide was great and I just LOVE Chicago
Sven
Jun, 2025Verified booking
5/5
Very good Tourguide Zack. A lot of Information!!!
Frank
Jul, 2025Verified booking
5/5
This was our first visit to Chicago and we were overwelmed. We chose the Rivercruise because the Chicago river floats right in the hart of Chicago and such a cruise offers a much better view at the intetesting buildings. Top it of with a proffesional narritor Alex and wr had a superb excursion. Very special was to see to clouds float in between the skycrapers. That made it all a kind of mystic. Very tecomendable to do this cruis Thanks Frank Hoffman (Netherlands)

Enjoy unforgettable views of Chicago’s skyline as you cruise along the Chicago River. This 45-min tour offers a unique vantage point to admire the city's world-famous skyscrapers, making it a must-do experience for architecture lovers.

Let the experts lead you

Gain insights into Chicago’s rich architectural heritage with engaging commentary from knowledgeable guides. Discover the history and design of iconic landmarks while enjoying a scenic and informative journey through the heart of the city.

Perfect for time-conscious travelers

Short on time? This 45-minute cruise provides a concise yet immersive look at Chicago’s architectural wonders, making it an ideal option for those with busy itineraries.

Great for first-time visitors and locals

Whether you're visiting Chicago for the first time or a local looking for a fresh perspective, this cruise offers a fun and accessible way to experience the city’s stunning urban landscape from the water.

What to bring

If you wish to purchase refreshments at the snack bar, bring your credit card along, as cash transactions are unavailable.

What's not allowed

Keep in mind alcohol, weapons, flammables, and explosives are not allowed on this experience.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Please arrive at the meeting point 30 mins before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.

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

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Wendella Tours & Cruises.

Address: 400 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States.

Landmark: The cruise departs and returns to Wendella's Michigan Avenue Docks, located at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge (now called the DuSable Bridge), at the base of the Wrigley Building on the Chicago River.

Get directions to the meeting point