BYOB Chicago River Guided History Tour

5.0 (4 reviews) 2 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

4 reviews

5.0

BYOB Chicago River Guided History Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

BYOB Chicago River Guided History Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Discover the fascinating history of Chicago from a whole new perspective — on the water! This 120-minute Guided History Tour along the Chicago River brings the city’s past to life through captivating stories, iconic landmarks, and little-known facts that shaped the Windy City into what it is today.

Chicago’s transformation from swamp land to industrial hub to the modern metropolis it is today
The dramatic story of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and how the city rebuilt stronger than ever
Tales of Chicago’s most infamous gangsters and Prohibition-era legends
The groundbreaking 1893 World’s Fair and the inventions it introduced to the world
The incredible reversal of the Chicago River — its purpose and lasting impact on the city’s future

Step aboard and experience how history, architecture, and innovation flow together on this unforgettable journey through Chicago’s past and present.

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At a glance

Duration: 2 hours
Confirmation: Confirmed within 48 hours
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 18 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Chicago Boat Company

Ages: Infants (0–0 years) · Children (1–5 years) · Adults (6–120 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Coolers and Ice
Included: Local Knowledgeable Guide

Not included

Not included: Drinks, but you are welcome to bring any drinks you want (no glass please)
Not included: Snacks/food, but you are welcome to bring any onboard

Itinerary

Chicago Riverwalk

Passing by

The Party Barge is a unique way to cruise the Chicago River and lakefront. The boat features a u-shaped bar, surrounded by bar stools. The boat is equipped with a head (bathroom), charging ports, additional seating at the bow and coolers with ice. All cruises are BYOB, 120 minutes long and depart from the Chicago Riverwalk (between the LaSalle Street and Wells Street bridges).
Battle Of Fort Dearborn

Passing by

Off the to the south side of the river we will see the site where the first American settlement, Ft Dearborn, once stood.
Stop 3

Passing by

This was the site where the 1871 Great Chicago Fire started.
Stop 4

Passing by

In 1992 a hole formed under this bridge which lead to the Great Flood, shutting Chicago down for a whole week!
Stop 5

Passing by

These buildings built in 1964 are considered the pivot point from Chicago's Industrial Age into the Residential Metropolitan it is today.
Stop 6

Passing by

Learn about the reverse of the Chicago River how that has formed the city over the last century.
Navy Pier

Passing by

Here we get to learn about the World's Fair of 1893 and the inventions we still use today that were introduced here.
Chicago Riverwalk

Passing by

In the late 1800's Captain Santa set up shop on his sail boat the Rouse Simmons to sell Christmas Trees every winter at this corner of the river.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Our Water Plaza location is situated along the Chicago Riverwalk between the LaSalle and Wells bridges. A staircase located at the northwest corner of Wacker and LaSalle provides access from the street. The check-in office is next to Sweet Home Gelato.

End point

Our Water Plaza location is situated along the Chicago Riverwalk between the LaSalle and Wells bridges. A staircase located at the northwest corner of Wacker and LaSalle provides access from the street. The check-in office is next to Sweet Home Gelato.