Overview
Marvel at the magnificent architecture on the Chicago River with expert tour guides! All ages welcome.
Each architecture river tour is narrated by a professional guide which leads passengers down the Chicago River to discover the city’s most renowned landmarks. In addition to historical insight on well known structures such as the Civic Opera House, Trump Tower & the Merchandise Mart, passengers will also get a chance to learn about current and upcoming developments.
This Chicago River Cruise is the only cruise that navigates the three primary branches of the river including the main branch to Navy Pier, the north branch to Goose Island, and the south branch to Chinatown. It is also the cruise closest to Skydeck, has the least expensive parking, and is great for those coming from the suburbs due to its location off Interstate 290.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Fully enclosed interior with air conditioning, seats, & windows
Outside seating available (seating is first come first serve basis)
On-board restrooms
Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River
Full bar & snacks (available for purchase)
Gratuities
$12 to $15 discounted parking lot connected to marina
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Please enter 900 S Wells Chicago, IL 60607 to your GPS for directions to the boat dock.
Go through the parking lot behind the River City condominium building. The parking lot is located across from the soccer field on 9th St and Wells.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
Cruises are on rain or shine.
All tours are non-refundable and non-transferable.
We will always send an e-mail if there are any changes to your booked tour. Please do not call/text to inquire if a cruise will be cancelled. Always assume the cruise is going on unless you get a cancellation e-mail from us.
Ticketed Passengers MUST be boarded 10 min before departure time! Standby boarding starts 10 min before the departure time. Late ticketed passengers will be placed at the end of the standby line. There are no refunds or if you miss the boarding time indicated above.
What to expect
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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.
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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.
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Aqua Tower
Aqua Tower is an 82-story mixed-use residential skyscraper in the Lakeshore East development in downtown Chicago, Illinois.
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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.
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Merchandise Mart
Chicago's Merchandise Mart is an iconic building housing top home showrooms and plenty of office space.
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Navy Pier
Drawing crowds for over 100 years, the Navy Pier is a must-see on any visit to Chicago.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Chicago).
Additional Information
- Vessel has full bar and restroom
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
FAQs about Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour
Can I cancel Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 1 hour 30 min.
Where does it start?
Please enter 900 S Wells Chicago, IL 60607 to your GPS for directions to the boat dock. Go through the parking lot behind the River City condominium building.
What's included?
- Fully enclosed interior with air conditioning, seats, & windows
- Outside seating available (seating is first come first serve basis)
- On-board restrooms
- Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River
What's not included?
- Full bar & snacks (available for purchase)
- Gratuities
- $12 to $15 discounted parking lot connected to marina
Which places does it visit?
It visits Wrigley Building, Willis Tower, Aqua Tower, Chicago Chinatown, Merchandise Mart, Navy Pier.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Operated by Tours and Boats















