Be inspired by the captivating, visual art that is Chicago’s legendary architecture, and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing, dynamic legacy for all to enjoy and admire. This comprehensive 90 minute tour will navigate through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River while your professionally-trained architectural guide tells the story of more than 130 years of innovation in design, style and technique and why it is important today. The Chicago River Architecture Tour is the most authentic and encompassing Chicago experience the city has to offer.
Vessels depart from Wendella's docks at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge (DuSable Bridge), at the foot of the Wrigley Building.
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.
The largest commercial building in the world.
Michigan Avenue is home of the Chicago Water Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the shopping on the Magnificent Mile.
This white, terra-cotta landmark was built in 1922 as headquarters for the Wrigley chewing gum company.
An open, pedestrian waterfront called the city's 'Second Lakefront.'
Second-largest opera auditorium in North America, with an Art Deco interior
Pass by these iconic mixed-use apartment buildings - "a city within a city" with their unique corn-cob exterior.
Great experience! The tour guide was funny, informative and made it even better. Can’t remember her name exactly(Alana?) red headed woman. The views were incredible and it was a lot of fun seeing the city lit up at night. Would definitely recommend to anyone!
Justine was amazing!!! Clean boat. Informative tour guide and so funny. We had a great time and would definitely do it again!
Easy to find the boat. Great guide once on the boat.. Not so great greeter Priscilla employed by Wendell’s-they should have custom service friendly people up front, not someone with an attitude. I have always been happy with Viatar for easy service!
The cruise director was very knowledgeable and helpful! It was an enjoyable cruise - we learned a lot about this big wonderful city !
This tour was awesome!! My husband and I learned so much about Chicago’s history and the gorgeous architecture. I didn’t know I was into architecture until I took this tour! Our guide was knowledgeable, informative and funny. He even checked in on us personally during the break. The seats were comfortable and we would definitely recommend this tour to anyone visiting Chicago.
It was amazing, everything was wondering, WOW!! I rate the employees was very helpful and respectful and understanding also spoke clearly so everyone could understand, I rate a ten stars in my prayers book, keep up the amazing great amazing work.
I booked with TripAdvisor with my sister from California but we ended up at two different docks so I had to reschedule my tour because I thought it was at the same dock as hers but they were awesome and let me reschedule. My son and I had a wonderful time the guide was amazing!!
Excellent description of Chicago buildings along the river. Bring sunscreen and hat as there is no shade on outside section.
Well, for the few boats there was something like ceiling covers behind of the boat so some people couldn’t see well the tall towers during this tour. If I knew this I would make a reservation for the First Lady even if I had to pay more. The covers had better remove so that all people can see the all tall buildings well
This is definitely a must do when you visit Chicago! We learned so much about these amazing buildings and the people who designed them. Lucas our guide packed so much information into our 90 minutes. Excellent experience.
