Chicago Architecture River Cruise

4.8 (17,139 reviews) one hour – 1 h 15 min Free cancellation

out of 5

17,139 reviews

4.8

Chicago River Cruise — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Chicago Architecture River Cruise, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Experience the stunning beauty of Chicago on a captivating cruise along the historic Chicago River. This architectural tour takes you down the main branch of the river, up the north branch to the East Bank Club, and then south past the iconic Willis Tower (Sears Tower) to the historic Old Post Office Building.

Marvel at the magnificent city skyline as you pass by over 40 notable buildings, including:

John Hancock Center: An iconic skyscraper that defines the Chicago skyline.

Wrigley Building: Known for its distinctive white facade and clock tower.

As you sail, an expert architecture guide will provide fascinating insights into the distinctive designs and history of these architectural marvels. Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time, this tour offers a unique perspective on one of the world's most beautiful cities.

Sit back, relax, and let the architectural wonders of Chicago unfold before your eyes.

Day Cruises Private and Luxury Architecture Tours City Tours Water Tours Sightseeing Cruises Viator Plus Excellent Quality

At a glance

Duration: one hour – 1 h 15 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 250 people
People per booking: 1–30
Guide: English, Spanish
Operated by: Shoreline Sightseeing

Ages: Infants (0–2 years) · Children (3–12 years) · Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Pet-friendly
Included: On-board restrooms: Restroom on board
Included: Live expert commentary on board
Included: Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River

Not included

Not included: Drinks (available for purchase)
Not included: On-board WiFi: WiFi on board

Itinerary

Chicago River

one hour

Cruise takes place on the Chicago River.
Chicago Skyline

Passing by

Enjoy an amazing view of the city's skyline.
Navy Pier

Passing by

50 acres of parks, promenades, gardens, shops, eateries and attractions, including a 15-story Ferris wheel.
Tribune Tower

Passing by

The neo-gothic tower's signature is the exterior collection of stones from other famous edifices, like the Parthenon, St. Peter's Basilica, Notre Dame, the White House and most recently, the Berlin Wall.
John Hancock Center

Passing by

The John Hancock Center, is a 100-story, 1,128-foot supertall skyscraper
Marina City

Passing by

The twin corncob towers are a unique part of Chicago’s urban landscape.
Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower

Passing by

Once the tallest building in the world, it's a striking presence in the skyline.
Aqua Tower

Passing by

Notable for its wave-like balconies, it's a modern architectural wonder.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

FROM NAVY PIER: Departs from 124 N Streeter Drive from the Shoreline Sightseeing docks at Polk Bros Park.
FROM MICHIGAN AVE: Departs from 401 N Michigan Ave at the Shoreline Sightseeing docks. NE corner of Historic Michigan Ave. (Dusable) Bridge. Located alongside Chicago's Honored Pioneer Court.

End point

FROM NAVY PIER: Departs from 124 N Streeter Drive from the Shoreline Sightseeing docks at Polk Bros Park.
FROM MICHIGAN AVE: Departs from 401 N Michigan Ave at the Shoreline Sightseeing docks. NE corner of Historic Michigan Ave. (Dusable) Bridge. Located alongside Chicago's Honored Pioneer Court.

Using your ticket

PLEASE NOTE: THERE ARE 2 DIFFERENT DEPARTURE LOCATIONS FOR THIS PRODUCT DEPENDING ON OPTION BOOKED! MAKE SURE YOU GO TO THE LOCATION THAT MATCHES THE OPTION YOU CHOSE (EITHER 401 N. MICHIGAN AVENUE OR NAVY PIER)

Beginning November 11, 2024 through April 2025, tours will be 60 minutes in length.

Once order has been submitted, no changes can be made. Additional passengers need to make a separate reservation.

This is your ticket. Please proceed directly to the boarding line of the boat and a Shoreline greeter in bright orange will assist you.

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure time.

Public parking ramp is located 316 E. Illinois St, Chicago IL 60611. Parking is an additional fee.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
All boats have full restrooms and a full bar.
Some boats are single deck vessels, the type of vessel you are placed on cannot be guaranteed.
Wheelchairs or other walking assistance equipment are not provided.
Cruises are dog-friendly.
Tours can be rescheduled through Viator 24 hours prior to the departure dates.
Wheelchair accessible from Navy Pier dock only.

Options

Classic Tour from Navy Pier

Duration: 1 hour: Enjoy the spectacular views on this convenient cruise as you listen to the guide highlight Chicago’s famous architecture.

Starting point:

124 N Streeter Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Spanish Tour from Michigan Ave

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes: Experience Chicago's world-renowned architecture and engineering on this classic cruise with live Spanish narration.

Starting point:

401 North Michigan, 401 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Classic Tour from Michigan Ave

Duration: 1 hour

Starting point:

401 North Michigan, 401 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Signature Tour Michigan Ave

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes: Experience Chicago's world-renowned architecture and engineering on this classic 75-minute cruise with live narration.

Starting point:

401 North Michigan, 401 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Signature Tour - 75m Navy Pier

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes: Experience Chicago's world-renowned architecture and engineering on this classic 75-minute cruise with live narration.

Starting point:

124 N Streeter Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, USA