Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile
Overview
Available languages
45 minutes
Mobile ticket
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.
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
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
All Fees and Taxes
Restroom on board
Enclosed climate-controlled lounge/shelter from bad weather
Alcoholic, non-alcoholic drinks & snacks available for purchase on board
Storage
What To Expect
Chicago River
Cruise along the main and part of the south branch.
Chicago Riverwalk
Learn about the history of the Riverwalk.
Options
45-Minute Architecture Tour
45-Minute Tour: This cruise is a family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage.
Reviews
2,845 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great trip
Angela G,
Dec 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Although the day we picked to go was very very very cold, we still enjoyed this trip. For a cold day, it was just long enough. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and her anecdotes made the ride enjoyable. Definitely a must see in Chicago
Love Viewing My City From The River!
Alethea C,
Dec 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00If you are a Chicagoian don't miss this wonderful tour and learn about your city's beautiful architectural history along the great Chicago River. Very enjoyable!
The buildings of Chicago
Jill S,
Dec 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Interesting information and knowledgeable guide Would like to try it in the summer when the buildings can be seen better
Heated indoor cabin
kaileeb814,
Dec 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The boat was nicely heated for a winter river tour. Everyone who worked the crew was friendly. There were holiday drinks for sale as well. Tess was very informative of the history of the buildings.
Birthday Experience
Linda,
Dec 2, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00It's was fun and educational even in the cold. We were able to go inside downstairs. The whole experience is joyful to view the buildings.
Paid for nothing
Raymond W,
Dec 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
1.00I booked this tour online and when I got to the meeting point, I was asked to show my ticket purchase on my phone and directed to Windell dock where I boarded the boat and was charged two more ticket purchases. I am in the process of trying to recover the fee I paid Viator because it seems like I paid for a tour that doesn’t exist. I did not see any boats with Viator on it.
Super good, tour guide...
Austin A,
Dec 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Super good, tour guide was so entertaining and view was so worth only $28; whole boat was clean; the tour was on time; leave tips for the tour guide!
Very nice and informative...
Leslie G,
Nov 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00Very nice and informative tour. Glad that there was a place to warm up. We got some great pictures of the city
Nice ride on the river....
Rosalba M,
Nov 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00Nice ride on the river. Lots of historical background shared by the tour guide. Would recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago for the first time!
Run Don't Walk
michele G,
Nov 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
1.00It was wayyy too cild.we spent the entire time downstairs saw no sites No one helped me with my stroller It was awful and a waste My husband had a asthma attack and we are at hospital
From US$28.00
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Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises