Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Embark on a captivating Chicago River cruise and explore the city’s iconic architecture. Marvel at the stunning skyline, visit famous landmarks, and learn about the unique architectural styles from an expert guide.

Duration: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Chicago River - Cruise takes place on the Chicago River.
  • Chicago Skyline - Enjoy an amazing view of the city’s skyline.
  • Navy Pier - 50 acres of parks, promenades, gardens, shops, eateries and attractions, including a 15-story Ferris wheel.
  • Tribune Tower - The neo-gothic tower’s signature is the exterior collection of stones from other famous edifices, like the Parthenon, St. Peter’s Basilica, Notre Dame, the White House and most recently, the Berlin Wall.
  • John Hancock Center - The John Hancock Center, is a 100-story, 1,128-foot supertall skyscraper
What's Included
  • Pet-friendly
  • On-board restrooms
  • Live expert commentary on board
  • Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River
What's Not Included
  • Drinks (available for purchase)
  • On-board WiFi
Additional Information

Embark on a voyage through one of the most stunning cities globally via the ancient Chicago River. This architectural cruise will take you down the primary route of the Chicago River, up its northern branch reaching the East Bank Club, then south beyond Willis Tower (Sears Tower) going up to the former Post Office Building. Marvel at the impressive city skyline while noting over 40 significant buildings such as John Hancock Center and Wrigley Building. Your onboard expert guide will enlighten you about their unique architectural styles.

  • All boats have full restrooms and a full bar
  • Some boats are single deck vessels, the type of vessel you are placed on cannot be guaranteed
  • Wheelchairs or other walking assistance equipment are not provided.
  • Tour times cannot be changed.
  • Departure locations cannot be changed
  • Beginning November 6, 2023 through April 2024, tours will be 60 minutes in length.
  • Cruises are dog-friendly
Location
401 N Michigan Ave
North Michigan Avenue
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
4.8
(13343 Ratings)
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Anoramcgaha
Sep 1, 2024
Terrific Experience with Shoreline’s Antonio - Antonio our story telling guide was exceptionally good. A real pro. We listened. We learned. We laughed. Chicago by river is dazzling! I’d happily go four more times!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Globetrotting296980
Aug 15, 2024
Texas Tourists - Excellent tour. Informative. Our tour guide was delightful! We learned so much and have a new appreciation for the many stunning high rise buildings along the lake and river. The entire staff was welcoming! Thanks!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Delomik
Aug 14, 2024
Truly enjoyed this tour - Jill was a wonderful guide. We enjoyed learning about Chicago and listening to her stories and information. I advised her to publish all of her info for people to save as a keepsake!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Retiredscottsdale
Aug 12, 2024
Great experience - superb narrator/guide - Hats off to Claire, a fantastic narrator/guide. Learned so much about the history of Chicago and architecture in general. Highly recommended as part of three-day CityPass.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
James
Aug 11, 2024
A Great Architectural Education - Super Dan was great and full of enthusiastic energy! I don’t know how his voice held up so long. He’s also a wealth of architectural wisdom!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Quietswimmer
Aug 9, 2024
Friendly, Upbeat - Friendly crew. Mary Rose have an upbeat and informative tour. Pro tip: skip surcharge and buy tickets directly on site. I attended on a weekday when air and water show was happening. I arrived at ticket booth at 1pm and was able to go on a 1:30 cruise. No cash taken.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Thomassk2187kh
Aug 4, 2024
Great History Lesson - outstanding views and even better historical information from the narrator of the trip, I will be going again! The older you are the more you will appreciate the overall trip.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Natalie_y
Jul 14, 2024
We will do this again! - This was recommended to us by a friend. I never would have chosen to do it myself, but I’m SO glad she told us to! The tour guide was a kick, the boat was very clean & nice, and the views were incredible!
Review provided by Viator
Mybett88
Aug 13, 2024
Mybett88 Agen Server Thailand - The views are amazing and im enjoyed for the trip with Mybett88 Agen Slot Gampang Menang Server Thailand Aman dan Terpercaya di Indonesia
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Paul_s
Jul 28, 2024
Don't book through Viator - The tour itself was good. The main issue was by booking through Viator, we overpaid by $20 per ticket. We would have been much better off booking directly with the actual tour operator. Viator is simply a ripoff and adds no value.
Review provided by Viator
Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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