Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

4.7
(2,285 reviews)

1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

An authentic Chicago tradition since 1935, this is the tour that started it all. This unique excursion tells the story of more than 200 years of fascinating social, cultural and political history, and explores more than a century of groundbreaking architecture. The journey begins with an up-close perspective of Chicago's internationally-known architecture as seen from the Chicago River. Then venture through the Chicago Lock on to the calm, cool waters of Lake Michigan for expansive views of Chicago's extraordinary 26-mile skyline. Take the selfie of a lifetime on this inspirational experience!

What's Included

All taxes, fees and handling charges
Outdoor and Indoor climate-controlled seating option
Local Expert Guide
Restroom on board
Alcoholic drinks, non-alcoholic drinks, and snacks available for purchase on board
Storage

Meeting and pickup

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.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Chicago River

    Lake and River Architecture Tours begin at Michigan Avenue and explore Chicago's amazing architecture along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. All tours are narrated by professional tour guides.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Your tour travels along Lake Michigan and explores Chicago's beautiful skyline.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    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.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    The largest commercial building in the world.

    Admission ticket free
  • Marina City (Pass by)

    Pass by these iconic mixed-use apartment buildings - "a city within a city" with their unique corn-cob exterior.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Michigan Avenue is home of the Chicago Water Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the shopping on the Magnificent Mile.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    This white, terra-cotta landmark was built in 1922 as headquarters for the Wrigley chewing gum company.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    An open, pedestrian waterfront called the city's 'Second Lakefront.'

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Second-largest opera auditorium in North America, with an Art Deco interior

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • 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
Supplied by Wendella Tours & Cruises

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Tags

Day Cruises
Architecture Tours
City Tours
Water Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Sightseeing Cruises
Viator Plus
Excellent Quality
Best Conversion
Top Product
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.7 Based on 2285 2285 reviews
5 stars
1885
4 stars
234
3 stars
68
2 stars
46
1 star
52
Likely to sell out
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