Chicago: Architecture River Cruise Skip-the-Ticket Line

Top rated
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
4191 reviews
Activity provider:
Shoreline Sightseeing
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Chicago: Architecture River Cruise Skip-the-Ticket Line
Top rated
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
4191 reviews

Cruise along the Chicago River on a boat tour and discover hidden architectural gems among the city’s renowned landmarks, with live narration.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 75 minutes
Check availability to see starting times
Skip the ticket line
Host or greeter
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

5
5 out of 5 stars
K
Keith – United States

Enjoyed the cruise, our guide was fun and very informed! Our flight was late and we missed our scheduled time. The company allowed us to move to the next day to be able to use our tickets. Great service!! Thank you!

5
5 out of 5 stars
B
Beverley – United Kingdom

Very interesting tour - our guide was great! The architecture in Chicago is so diverse & I really enjoyed learning more about it. Definitely recommend this tour!

Select participants and date

Highlights

  • Cruise along all 3 branches of the Chicago River
  • Get an insight into 40 landmark buildings from an on board docent
  • Relax on board with a drink from the cash bar
  • Enjoy narration educating on the local sites & sounds of Chicago

Full description

Skip the ticket lines and step aboard for a 75-minute cruise covering all three branches of the Chicago River. Marvel at the architecture that has cemented Chicago's legendary status. Gain unique insights into the buildings and engineering feats of a city that birthed the skyscraper and is the spiritual home of modern American architecture.

Your expert guide will navigate you through the Chicago River, highlighting hidden gems and iconic landmarks such as the John Hancock Building, Trump Tower, Marina City, Willis Tower, and more. As you cruise the Windy City's waterways, relax with a refreshing drink from the cash bar, and soak in the city’s history and its stature as a modern metropolis and one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

End your adventure exactly where it began, enriched with newfound knowledge and a deeper appreciation for Chicago’s architectural wonders.

Includes

  • Architecture river cruise
  • Live commentary
  • A barcoded ticket allowing you to skip the ticket office and proceed directly to the boarding line
  • Boarding photo
  • Food and drinks (may be purchased)

Not suitable for

  • Wheelchair users

Meeting point

Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked.

Important information

Not allowed

  • Food and drinks

Know before you go

  • The regular tour is 75 minutes long, but in the colder months (November 1 – April 15th) the tour is 60 minutes long
  • Please dress for an outdoor activity
  • A cash bar is on board most vessels, depending on the season
  • Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to departure time
  • Don't forget your camera
  • A $10 per ticket change fee will be charged by the local partner for any date or time changes made on the original date of the tour

From $49 per person

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5
4.8 out of 5 stars

based on 4191 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Transportation
    4.8/5
  • Value for money
    4.6/5

Customer photos

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5
5 out of 5 stars
K
Keith – United StatesJune 23, 2025 – Verified booking
Enjoyed the cruise, our guide was fun and very informed! Our flight was late and we missed our scheduled time. The company allowed us to move to the next day to be able to use our tickets. Great service!! Thank you!
5
5 out of 5 stars
B
Beverley – United KingdomMay 25, 2025 – Verified booking
Very interesting tour - our guide was great! The architecture in Chicago is so diverse & I really enjoyed learning more about it. Definitely recommend this tour!
5
5 out of 5 stars
K
Kristin – United StatesMay 10, 2025 – Verified booking
It was a lovely tour and all employees were professional and friendly. Really enjoyed the Chicago architecture tour!

Product ID: 46389

Activity provider:
Shoreline Sightseeing

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