Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

Chicago is famous for its architecture, and the best way to see it is on a cruise down the Chicago River. Glide by historic and modern marvels like the Civic Opera House, Wrigley Building, and Willis Tower from the comfort of an open-deck boat. Live narration reveals each building’s fascinating history, so you'll learn more than you would just observing on your own.

See Chicago’s most famous buildings on an architecture cruise
Learn history and trivia about skyscrapers and civic buildings
Cruise down all three major branches of the Chicago River
Boat has a covered deck and open-air options to suit any weather

What To Expect

Wrigley Building

Located in the center of the Magnificent Mile, and steps from the Michigan Avenue Bridge, The Wrigley Building has been a hallmark of Chicago’s skyline since 1920. Designed as the headquarters for the successful chewing gum, the building was modeled after the Seville Cathedral’s Giralda Tower in Spain. Today, it is still home to Wm Wrigley Jr. Company, and is perhaps best known for its dazzling white towers that illuminate the city at night.
• Admission Ticket Free

Willis Tower

Willis Tower is the heart of downtown Chicago and the future of work and play. The 110-story building is one of the tallest buildings in the world and the second tallest building in Chicago, making it impossible to miss when appreciating the city’s skyline.
• Admission Ticket Free

Aqua Tower

Aqua Tower is an 82-story mixed-use residential skyscraper in the Lakeshore East development in downtown Chicago, Illinois.
• Admission Ticket Free

Chicago Chinatown

The Chinatown neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois is on the South Side and is an example of an American Chinatown, or ethnic-Chinese neighborhood.
• Admission Ticket Free

Merchandise Mart

Chicago’s Merchandise Mart is an iconic building housing top home showrooms and plenty of office space.
• Admission Ticket Free

Navy Pier

Drawing crowds for over 100 years, the Navy Pier is a must-see on any visit to Chicago.
• Admission Ticket Free

Highlight

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Not wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Near public transportation
Most travelers can participate
Tour times cannot be changed
Cruises are on rain or shine
Minimum drinking age is 21 years
Please arrive 30 min before your cruise time
Seating is first come first serve. If you have a large group, arrive early
Child Ticket (3 and under) is for free but needs a registered ticket
Youth Tickets available on our main ticketing page
Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship
Vessel has full bar and restroom
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 150 travelers

Include

Restroom on board
Outside seating available (seating is first come first serve basis)
Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River
Fully enclosed interior with air conditioning, seats, & windows

Exclude

Full bar & snacks (available for purchase)
Gratuities
$12 to $15 discounted parking lot connected to marina