Overview
Be inspired by the captivating, visual art that is Chicago’s legendary architecture, and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing, dynamic legacy for all to enjoy and admire.
This comprehensive 90 minute tour will navigate through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River while your professionally-trained architectural guide tells the story of more than 130 years of innovation in design, style and technique and why it is important today.
The Chicago River Architecture Tour is the most authentic and encompassing Chicago experience the city has to offer.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Indoor and outdoor seating available (indoor is climate controlled)
Narrated tour on board by professionally trained tour guide.
Expert Local Guide
On-board restrooms
Gratuities
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
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.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
Parking is located at 430 N Rush St. Validate your parking at the Wendella ticket office which gives you 12 hours of parking for $12.
The closest address to most docks is 400 N Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60611 (near the Wrigley Building). From there you can check in with a dock employee who can direct you to your boarding area.
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the departure time to be directed to your dock.
Your ticket will be scanned from your phone, so you do not need to exchange anything at the window.
All guests need a ticket to board, including children and infants.
Minimum drinking age is 21 years.
Outside alcohol prohibited.
Weapons of any kind prohibited.
You may bring luggage or bags on board but it is subject to search.
Tours are rarely canceled due to weather and will only be canceled if conditions are deemed unsafe (tornado warnings, extreme ice or subzero temps, etc)
What to expect
-
Wendella
15 min
Vessels depart from Wendella's docks at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge (DuSable Bridge), at the foot of the Wrigley Building.
-
Centennial Fountain And Water Arc
15 min
Dedicated in 1989 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, known for reversing the flow of the Chicago River in 1900. For the first five minutes of every hour, the fountain shoots a water arc across the river from a tiered waterfall.
-
Merchandise Mart
15 min
The largest commercial building in the world.
-
Michigan Avenue Bridge
15 min
Michigan Avenue is home of the Chicago Water Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the shopping on the Magnificent Mile.
-
Wrigley Building
15 min
This white, terra-cotta landmark was built in 1922 as headquarters for the Wrigley chewing gum company.
-
Chicago Riverwalk
15 min
An open, pedestrian waterfront called the city's 'Second Lakefront.'
-
Lyric Opera of Chicago
15 min
Second-largest opera auditorium in North America, with an Art Deco interior
-
Marina City
15 min
Pass by these iconic mixed-use apartment buildings - "a city within a city" with their unique corn-cob exterior.
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
- Special requests entered at checkout cannot be guaranteed
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Chicago Tour Through the River’s Architecture and Landmarks
Can I cancel Chicago Tour Through the River’s Architecture and Landmarks for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Where does the tour start?
Meet at 400 N Michigan Avenue, near the Wrigley Building, and arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to be directed to the boarding dock.
Where does the tour end?
The tour finishes back at 400 N Michigan Avenue, the start point.
How long is the boat tour, and what is included on board?
The tour lasts 1 hour 30 min and includes a narrated tour with a professionally trained guide, indoor and outdoor seating, and on-board restrooms.
Which places does the boat tour pass?
It covers 8 stops, in order: Wendella, Centennial Fountain And Water Arc, Merchandise Mart, Michigan Avenue Bridge, Wrigley Building, Chicago Riverwalk, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and Marina City.
Is pickup provided?
No. All travellers meet at 400 N Michigan Avenue, near the Wrigley Building.
Operated by Wendella Tours & Cruises
