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Chicago River

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Centennial Wheel

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Willis Tower

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Chicago Riverwalk

Art Institute of Chicago

United Center

Wrigley Field

Landmarks & monuments

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  • Top experiences
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Architecture

Bus & minivan tours

Lights tours

TV & movie tours

Ghost & vampire tours

Dinner & lunch cruises

Speed & jet boat tours

Dinner shows

Boat parties

Hop-on Hop-off tours

Sailing trips & boat tours

City cards

Explore more things to do in Chicago

Sightseeing

Culture & history

Food & drinks

Outdoor activities

Rainy-day activities

Outdoor sports

Water sports

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Explore more things to do in Chicago

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48 hours in Chicago

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Chicago travel guide

Chicago: 45-Minute Family-Friendly Architecture River Cruise

Top rated
4.702307 out of 5 stars
4.7
4.702307 out of 5 stars
1777 reviews
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Chicago: 45-Minute Family-Friendly Architecture River Cruise
Likely to sell out
Top rated
4.702307 out of 5 stars
4.7
4.702307 out of 5 stars
1777 reviews

Cruise down the Chicago River and see the city’s most spectacular landmarks on a boat cruise with live, family-friendly commentary and a full-service bar on board.

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 45 minutes
Check availability to see starting times
Skip the ticket line
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

I
Ian – United Kingdom

Worth doing the tour of an evening, the buildings are breathtaking

S
Stephanie – United States

Fantastic experience. Our guide was AMAZING and the tour was the perfect length (45 min) for my kids to stay engaged and love it (ages 11, 9, 7). Each one listed this tour in their top 3 favorite parts of Chicago. Highly recommend.

Select participants and date

Participants

Highlights

  • Navigate with your family through the heart of the City on the Chicago River
  • Learn from expert guides about what makes Chicago architecture so amazing
  • Relax on board with locally sourced food and drinks from the full-service cash bar
  • Pre-purchase your ticket to skip the line and guarantee your place on this popular cruise

Full description

Admire Chicago’s impressive architecture from a unique perspective aboard a cruise sailing down the Chicago River, which features an indoor and outdoor deck, along with live commentary tailored to entertain the whole family. Treat yourself to a full-service cash bar at your own expense.

Experience the best of the Chicago River from Lakeshore Drive to the Willis Tower, navigating along the South branch of the river, before heading back past the Chicago Riverwalk towards Lake Shore Drive and Lake Michigan.

Be entertained by the fun and experienced tour guides as they explain the history behind Chicago’s buildings along the river and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing skyline.

Enjoy the most relaxing way to sightsee in Chicago, exploring the city free of traffic, noise, and congestion. Make sure to visit the full-service cash bar featuring authentic Chicago products, including local beer and spirits.

Explore the open-air decks that allow you to feel the cooling river breeze and see the city from many vantage points that provide perfect photo opportunities.

Includes

  • Local tour guide
  • Outdoor and interior deck access
  • Climate-controlled seating
  • Food and drinks (available for purchase onboard)
  • Tips

Meeting point

The closest address to most docks is 400 N Michigan Avenue, Chicago (near the Wrigley Building). From there, you can check in with a dock employee who can direct you to your boarding area.

Open in Google Maps

Important information

Not allowed

  • Weapons or sharp objects
  • Food and drinks

Know before you go

  • Passengers can bring their own non-alcoholic beverages and food
  • This tour takes place rain or shine
  • Children under 4 years of age are free
  • Seats on the decks are chosen on a first-come, first-serve basis
  • All bags are subject to a security search
Likely to sell out

From $28.00 per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today
Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 1777 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.7/5
  • Transportation
    4.7/5
  • Value for money
    4.6/5

Customer photos

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I
Ian – United KingdomMay 27, 2025 – Verified booking
Worth doing the tour of an evening, the buildings are breathtaking
S
Stephanie – United StatesMay 12, 2025 – Verified booking
Fantastic experience. Our guide was AMAZING and the tour was the perfect length (45 min) for my kids to stay engaged and love it (ages 11, 9, 7). Each one listed this tour in their top 3 favorite parts of Chicago. Highly recommend.
J
Jude – IrelandMay 4, 2025 – Verified booking
Kenny was very knowledgeable and fun. Enjoyed the tour and recommend it!

Product ID: 361750

Activity provider:Wendella Tours & Cruises
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