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Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile
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At a glance
- Duration
- 45 min
- Price from
- $28 / person
- Rating
- 4.7 / 5 · 3,577 reviews
- Languages
- EN, EN
- Group
- Small group, up to 100
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation
- Meeting point
- Arrive at 400 N Michigan Avenue 30 minutes before your departure and you will be directed to your boarding dock. Please allow yourself plenty of time to arrive if driving. We do not have parking. It is recommend that you book parking in advance.
- Confirmation
- Within 24h
Prices checked on Sep 11, 2026Things to do in Chicago
Description
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.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Cruise along the main and part of the south branch.
Learn about the history of the Riverwalk.
Hear the history of the bridge.
The Wrigley Building at 400 N Michigan Ave is named for one of Chicago's most famous industrialists.
One of the largest buildings in Chicago, and the country, the Merchandise Mart is a sight to behold.
Learn about he Lyric Opera House, Chicago's grand venue for live performance, business, and entertainment.
Pass by these iconic mixed-use apartment buildings - "a city within a city" with their unique corn-cob exterior.
Highlights
All Fees and Taxes
Restroom on board
Enclosed climate-controlled lounge/shelter from bad weather
What's included
Included
All Fees and Taxes
Restroom on board
Enclosed climate-controlled lounge/shelter from bad weather
Not included
Alcoholic, non-alcoholic drinks & snacks available for purchase on board
Storage
Traveller Ratings
4.7
3,577 reviews
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Weapons prohibited by US Coast Guard
- Outside alcohol is prohibited
- All bags subject to search
- Arrive 30 minutes prior to your departure time
- Contact tour operator for wheelchair & ADA access
- Indoor and outdoor seating is available on a first come, first served basis
- Special requests entered at checkout cannot be guaranteed
Frequently asked questions
How long does this tour take?
Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile lasts about 45 min. The itinerary has 7 stops.
How much does this tour cost?
Prices start at $28 per person for this Chicago experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Can I cancel this tour for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Arrive at 400 N Michigan Avenue 30 minutes before your departure and you will be directed to your boarding dock. Please allow yourself plenty of time to arrive if driving. We do not have parking. It is recommend that you book parking in advance. . Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
What languages is this tour offered in?
The experience is available in EN, EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 100 participants.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Contact tour operator for wheelchair & ADA access
Reviews(3,577)
L
Great tour
The tour was great and very informative. However, the tour guide was very demanding of everyone’s attention and, at times, spoke to us as if we were children. Some requests came across as forceful rather than courteous. Overall, I enjoyed the tour, but a friendlier and more respectful approach would have made the experience much better.
M
This is a great way to...
This is a great way to learn about the architecture and history of this part of Chicago. It is relaxing as well. It is nice because you can sit on the top deck or the lower deck and they have refreshments you can buy as well as bathrooms on board.
B
Good time
Great time. Guide was funny and knowledgeable. Would recommend this to anyone. We went at the 8pm ride.
C
Nightlife on the river
To make sure that they get the right boat and when they make their reservation the address and the name of the company
L
Great experience, loved...
Great experience, loved the sights, and the boat was awesome! Would also do it again. The history of the buildings, was very educational.
J
A must do tour of Chicago River
Elsie our tour guide did an outstanding job of giving us historical perspectives on all the buildings surrounding the river. She also had a cute sense of humor that gave lightness to the tour. This tour is a must for your visit to Chicago.
J
Excellent tour and guide
tour and guide Dave were excellent, I would highly recommend Wendella Tours for anyone visiting the city Chicago
S
The detail about every...
The detail about every building was amazing. The guy at 3:15 9/7/26 really knows what he is talking about.
R
Take the Tour
Great experience. Highly recommend when visiting Chicago. The guide was very informative and full of personality.
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