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Chicago River 90-Minute History and Architecture Tour

4.5 (5177)
Chicago, US
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Chicago River 90-Minute History and Architecture Tour

4.5 (5177)
Chicago, US
Share
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Experience the captivating art of Chicago's legendary architecture on the 90-Minute Chicago River Architecture Tour. This comprehensive tour takes you through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River, while a professionally-trained architectural guide shares the story of over 130 years of innovation in design, style, and technique. Discover why this architectural legacy is so important today and be inspired by the exceptional architects who created it. From the towering Willis Tower to the iconic Michigan Avenue Bridge, this tour highlights the city's most famous landmarks and offers a unique perspective from the water. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the most authentic and encompassing Chicago experience available. Book your tour now and embark on this visual journey through Chicago's architectural masterpiece.

About this experience

  • Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
  • 1 hours 30 minutes
  • Suitable for 1-15 Participants
  • Private Tour, Small Group Tour
  • Guided Experience & Audio Guided
  • Captivating, visual art of Chicago's legendary architecture
  • Professionally-trained architectural guide
  • More than 130 years of innovation in design, style, and technique
  • Authentic and encompassing Chicago experience
  • Navigating the heart of the city on the Chicago River
  • Restroom on board
  • Indoor and outdoor seating available (indoor is climate controlled)
  • Narrated tour on board by professionally trained tour guide.
  • Expert Local Guide
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Gratuities

Popular Hotels Closeby

More about this experience

Introduction

Discover the captivating and visually stunning world of Chicago's legendary architecture on the 90-Minute Chicago River Architecture Tour. Immerse yourself in the city's architectural wonders as you navigate the three branches of the Chicago River. Led by professionally-trained architectural guides, this comprehensive tour will take you on a journey through over 130 years of design innovation, style, and technique.

What to expect?

During this 90-minute tour, you can expect to embark on an extraordinary adventure that showcases the rich architectural heritage of Chicago. Marvel at the iconic landmarks, skyscrapers, and historic buildings as your guide narrates the intriguing stories behind each masterpiece. As you cruise along the river, you'll witness the ever-changing cityscape and gain a deeper understanding of how these architectural marvels have shaped the city's identity.

Who is this for?

The Chicago River Architecture Tour is perfect for anyone with a passion for art, design, history, or simply a desire to explore the beauty of Chicago. Whether you're a local looking to appreciate your city from a new perspective or a visitor eager to delve into the architectural wonders of Chicago, this tour caters to all. It's an enriching experience that welcomes solo travelers, couples, families, and groups of friends alike.

Why book this?

This tour offers the most authentic and encompassing Chicago experience available. It provides a unique opportunity to witness the evolution of architectural styles throughout history and gain insight into the visionaries behind these iconic structures. Immerse yourself in the architectural beauty and let it inspire your own creativity. From the stunning skyline to the intricate details of each building, this tour is a feast for the eyes and a source of inspiration for all.

Good to know

Before boarding, make sure to arrive at 400 N Michigan Avenue at least 30 minutes before your departure time. Parking is not available, so it's recommended to book parking in advance if you're driving. The tour includes key highlights such as the mesmerizing Michigan Avenue Bridge, the renowned Wrigley Building, and the vibrant Chicago Riverwalk. Prepare to be amazed as you pass by iconic mixed-use apartment buildings with their unique corn-cob exterior. To ensure a smooth experience, book your spot in advance and come ready to embrace the architectural wonders that await you.

Reviews

Feedback from previous participants highlights the Chicago River Architecture Tour as an exceptional experience. Travelers express their amazement at the knowledgeable guides who provided captivating insights into the history and significance of each architectural gem. Visitors praise the tour for its engaging narrative, stunning views, and overall satisfaction with the journey. It's no wonder that this tour consistently receives rave reviews, as it offers an unforgettable adventure through Chicago's architectural heritage.

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

  • At least one adult or senior required per booking

Your Itinerary

Wendella

Vessels depart from Wendella's docks at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge (DuSable Bridge), at the foot of the Wrigley Building.

Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower

(Pass by)

The tallest building in the Western Hemisphere

Centennial Fountain And Water Arc

(Pass by)

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

(Pass by)

The largest commercial building in the world.

Michigan Avenue Bridge

(Pass by)

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

(Pass by)

This white, terra-cotta landmark was built in 1922 as headquarters for the Wrigley chewing gum company.

Chicago Riverwalk

(Pass by)

An open, pedestrian waterfront called the city's 'Second Lakefront.'

Lyric Opera of Chicago

(Pass by)

Second-largest opera auditorium in North America, with an Art Deco interior

Marina City

(Pass by)

Pass by these iconic mixed-use apartment buildings - "a city within a city" with their unique corn-cob exterior.

Reviews

(5177)

4.5 (5177)

Rick L

Great guide news so much of the history and design of the buildings best guide I have had and I had a few. The weather was perfect and the captain was a professional

GrandTour447840

Wendella River Tour, great staff, VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE GUIDE, seamed like she knew all there was to know about the area. Boat left on time, very clean and bar down below on the inside. Hope for nice weather the top deck is the place to view the city sites.

Carla_S

Zach was an entertaining and knowledgeable guide. The boat was packed but the crew did a wonderful job getting us on and off. Great trip!!

Cindy_F

I LOVED this tour! The boat was beautiful, has alcohol and non alcohol beverages in a nice bar on the lower level, the guide was knowledgeable, the views were unbelievable. I would do this a second time and highly recommend others take the tour. Architecture was incredible.

Isa L

It was a great tour!! The guide was really nice and enthusiastic! Plus the boat trip has the best views of the city! Super recommend it!

Grampsalot

Learned a lot about Chicago and its architecture. Our guide, Dave, was very knowledgeable as well as very entertaining. The Chicago fire, devastating as it was, nevertheless gave Chicago a second chance. The leaders took full advantage as industry was pushed far to the south and glorious architecture flourished in partnership with more than 25 miles of easy public access to the lakefront. A bonus was going through the Chicago River lock for access to the lake.

ShannonSchulze

Dave, our tour guide, was great! Captain was pretty good at docking, as well! Very informative tour! Would highly recommend!

Cecelia_C

Good time had by all! Extra ordinary narrator! It was a lot of fun! I did not know that Chicago had such a rich history!

Yash_S

Goood explanation by the guide Alex and the tour covered all the iconic buildings and architecture of Chicago. History of Chicago was well explained.

Jill_C

the tour guide was fantastic , so much knowledge, and she was really entertaining as well. Chicago is spectacular and it was great to see it from the river!
Collected by Evendo, Tripadvisor & Viator
2024-05-04 20:28