Chicago River Architecture Tour: Family-Friendly Experience
4.7
1,056 Ratings
Chicago
Embark on a family-friendly Chicago River architecture tour and discover the city's rich history and architectural heritage. Join our knowledgeable tour guides on a captivating journey through the Windy City's iconic buildings and landmarks.
Duration: 45 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Chicago River - Cruise along the main and part of the south branch.
  • Chicago Riverwalk - Learn about the history of the Riverwalk.
  • Michigan Avenue Bridge - Hear the history of the bridge.
  • Wrigley Building - The Wrigley Building at 400 N Michigan Ave is named for one of Chicago’s most famous industrialists.
  • Merchandise Mart - One of the largest buildings in Chicago, and the country, the Merchandise Mart is a sight to behold.
  • Lyric Opera of Chicago - Learn about he Lyric Opera House, Chicago’s grand venue for live performance, business, and entertainment.
  • Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower - Marvel at Chicago’s tallest Skyscraper.
  • Marina City - Pass by these iconic mixed-use apartment buildings - “a city within a city” with their unique corn-cob exterior.
What's Included
  • All fees and taxes included
What's Not Included
  • Alcoholic, non-alcoholic drinks & snacks available for purchase on board
  • Storage
Additional Information

Explore the iconic buildings of Chicago and the extraordinary architects behind these masterpieces. This family-oriented primer on Chicago’s profound history and architectural prowess includes key points from Wendella’s comprehensive architecture tours. Join us on our top-notch fleet as our genuine local tour guides reveal the wonders of our remarkable city.

  • 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
Location
400 N Michigan Ave
North Michigan Avenue
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.
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
4.7
(1056 Ratings)
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Elizabeth_l
May 19, 2024
Friendly Staff - Our family is from Chicago and went on the tour to celebrate Mother’s Day, a week late. Gorgeous weather, friendly staff with lots of interesting facts! We did the 45 minute tour only because we did the 90 minute tour in 2016. We’d recommend both! Only suggestion is get there 20-30 minutes early and double check that you’re in the correct meeting place. There are two different locations for 45 minute and 90 minute tours.
Review provided by Viator
Ashley_h
May 19, 2024
Birthday family fun!!! - Myself and my family had a wonderful time we came to Chicago for my 39th birthday and I must say we had a ball!!! We will most definitely be back soon!!! Myself and my youngest daughter are fearful of water but I must say we enjoyed every moment of the water!!!
Review provided by Viator
Abdullah_j
May 17, 2024
Beautiful family day - Great views great time . Kids had a blast and great time I would definitely recommend a tone who visits Chicago to do this
Review provided by Viator
Colleen_b
May 17, 2024
Excellent tour just the... - Excellent tour just the right amount time and learned many things about Chicago! David the tour guide was funny also
Review provided by Viator
Z6870rclynnec
May 17, 2024
Girls trip to Chicago - Wonderful experience! We did the 8 pm. cruise and that was the perfect time to go. We had a trainee guide and he did a great job!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Marilyn_t
May 16, 2024
John is Hysterical - John was the Best! I’ve taken this tour a few times over the years and there’s nobody more informative or funny than he is!
Review provided by Viator
Scott_s
May 16, 2024
Great Ride! - Guide was knowledgeable with lots of good information! It helps also that it was a beautiful, sunny day.
Review provided by Viator
Chloe_e
May 16, 2024
Awesome start to our Chicago trip - Tour guide did a great job, was very knowledgeable, funny, and the 45min tour was the perfect amount of time to go down the river. Great views and photos to last a lifetime.
Review provided by Viator
Vitalii_p
May 19, 2024
Check guy was bad. - The only problem was the guy who checked the tickets upstairs. There were 2 boats there and when he looked at our tickets, he said that we had come to the right place. But when the lady downstairs started scanning the tickets, she said that we needed to go to another boat. The time was already 11:55, our tickets were for 12. And everything would have been fine, but our grandmother, 75 years old, was with us. And she had to run away because the guy didn't do his job.
Review provided by Viator
Anna_e
May 20, 2024
We were 5 min late and... - We were 5 min late and would not let us board. I asked for a refund they said no bc it was from a 3rd party. My sister from California was in town and she couldn’t enjoy it . Very disappointed
Review provided by Viator
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
May 2024
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