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Chicago River Architecture and History-Private Boat Tour

5 (12)
Chicago, US
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Chicago River Architecture and History-Private Boat Tour

5 (12)
Chicago, US
Share
Join us on a private boat tour of the Chicago River and uncover the fascinating history and remarkable architecture of the city with a local guide by your side. Begin your journey in the bustling Chicago Loop, where you'll marvel at iconic landmarks like the Marshall Field building and the stained-glass-domed Cultural Center. Once aboard your own private boat, sail along the Chicago River as your guide points out the city's most notable sites, including Willis Tower and Union Station. As you glide past Wolf Point, an area rich in Native American and commercial history, you'll be captivated by the grandeur of the Art Deco buildings that once defined Chicago's skyline. Whether exploring by foot or enjoying the sights from the boat, this private tour promises an unforgettable experience of Chicago's architectural wonders.

About this experience

  • Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
  • 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Suitable for 1-12 Participants
  • Private Tour
  • Guided Experience
  • Private boat tour along the Chicago River
  • Knowledgeable local Chicagoan guide
  • Stunning views of Chicago's architectural marvels
  • Passing by famous landmarks like Willis Tower and Union Station
  • Opportunity to explore sites on foot after the tour
  • Get to know the history of Chicago’s growth from pre-settlement to current day
  • Local English-speaking guide
  • Explore the Chicago Loop by foot and pass by its architectural marvels
  • Private Boat Transportation
  • Hear the history of the Chicago River and how it has shaped the city’s identity
  • See top Chicago attractions like Willis Tower and Union Station
  • Food and drink
  • Gratuities for the guide
  • Souvenirs

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More about this experience

Introduction:

Experience the wonders of Chicago like never before with the Chicago River by Private 2.5 Hour Boat Tour. This unique tour takes you on a journey through the city's rich history and architectural marvels, led by a knowledgeable local Chicagoan. Get ready to be captivated by the stunning sights and stories that await you on this private boat tour.

What to expect?

During the Chicago River by Private 2.5 Hour Boat Tour, you can anticipate an immersive experience that showcases the city's most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Glide along the Chicago River and be amazed as your guide points out fascinating architectural marvels, including the renowned Willis Tower, once the tallest building in the world. You'll also spot Union Station, a familiar sight from famous films, and witness a behemoth Art Deco building that was so grand, it had its own zip code. Prepare to be awe-struck by the stunning sights and captivating stories that surround these landmarks.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for all types of travelers who are eager to explore Chicago's history and architectural wonders. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to delve into the heart and soul of the Windy City, this tour is for you. It's designed to be inclusive and engaging, catering to a wide range of interests. So, whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends or family, everyone can enjoy and appreciate the beauty and significance of Chicago's architectural marvels.

Why book this?

Embark on the Chicago River by Private 2.5 Hour Boat Tour and unlock the secrets of the city's architectural heritage. This tour stands out from the rest due to its intimate and personalized nature. With a knowledgeable local guide by your side, you'll gain unique insights and anecdotes about the landmarks you encounter. This tour allows you to explore Chicago's rich history and iconic buildings at your own pace, away from the crowds. By booking this tour, you'll have the opportunity to create lasting memories and truly connect with the city's heritage.

Good to know:

Inclusions for the Chicago River by Private 2.5 Hour Boat Tour include a local English-speaking guide and a private boat. However, please note that food and drink, souvenirs, and tips for the guide are not included. The tour starts in front of the theatre under the marquee and ends at the same location. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as there may be opportunities to explore the sites on foot after the boat tour. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning sights and fascinating stories that await you on this unforgettable Chicago adventure.

Reviews:

Previous travelers who have experienced the Chicago River by Private 2.5 Hour Boat Tour have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback. Many praised the knowledgeable and passionate guides who brought the city's history and architecture to life. They were particularly impressed by the unique perspective offered by the boat tour, allowing them to see the landmarks from a different angle. Travelers also appreciated the personalized nature of the tour, as it allowed them to ask questions and delve deeper into the stories behind each architectural marvel. Overall, the tour received high ratings for its informative and engaging experience, leaving visitors with a newfound appreciation for 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

Your Itinerary

The Chicago Theatre

(Pass by)

This is where your tour begins - underneath the iconic neon sign made famous in both movies and musicals! Here, you'll meet your tour guide and then set off through bustling downtown Chicago.

Marina City

(Pass by)

Before you board your private boat for a tour along the Chicago River, gaze up at the two towers that make up the main complex of Marina City. Your tour guide will share stories of its development and the complex’s current uses besides an apartment community.

Downtown / The Loop

(Pass by)

Your brief walking tour prior to boarding your private Chicago River boat takes place in this lively neighborhood of shopping, nightlife, performing arts, and, of course, restaurants with the best food Chicago has to offer!

Chicago River

We'll cruise alongside this urban green space thronged with visitors and locals alike enjoying its 1.25-mile long path filled with public art. Your Chicago tour guide will point out sites of interests including Marina Towers, the Britannica Building, and the Sears Tower (now known as the Willis Tower).

Merchandise Mart

(Pass by)

During your Chicago boat cruise, your tour guide will be sure to point out this 1930s architectural wonder, built in Art Deco style and which once held the title of the largest building in the world!

Macy's on State Street

(Pass by)

This household-name department store is housed in the The Marshall Field and Company Building, known for its highly ornamented exterior and interior. You’ll learn about the history of this building from your Chicago tour guide and its significance in the American commercial industry.

Wrigley Building

(Pass by)

You can't think of Chicago without thinking of the Wrigley Company. This skyscraper with its central clock tower, first built in the early 1900s, no longer houses the Wrigley Company, but is home to several other significant businesses and consulates.

Reviews

(12)

5 (12)

P6181GQalexa

The tour was absolutely wonderful. I've done the big architecture tour where you are with a large number of people before and this one was 100 times better. The boat fits twelve but our group had 6 and there was still plenty of room for others without feeling cramped at all. The weather was bit cold, but the boat had an enclosure that was still visible through that kept us pretty warm. Dave was SO FUN and knowledgeable. We not only got really great information, but having a small group made it a lot more comfortable to ask questions. I highly recommend doing the private boat tour, it was a wonderful experience and I will absolutely be doing this tour again next time I have friends visiting from out of town. It is a beautiful way to show off Chicago.

drewbB7956JZ

The views were amazing I love the city in the summer and seeing it from the river in a boat is always breathtaking. The guide was also very informative and easy going making the entire trip comfortable the whole time.

533gosiam

Beautiful scenery. Super friendly knowledgeable guide. Dave gave us all kinds of fun facts about Chicago and the river itself. Hug plus for me, the boats are electric, no noise, no pollution.

915gosiam

This tour was fantastic! Our guide Dave was very friendly, funny and witty in this informative tour of Chicago architecture and its history. He did a stellar job as he navigated us through the heart of the city’s spectacular views. It was neat to have a private tour in an intimate setting with friends, and I will happily book WeVenture again for this incredibly cool and authentic Chicago experience!

darlas568

I had a fantastic time on the WeVenture Chicago river tour with our amazing guide Dave! Compared to the much larger group boat tours that I've done 2-3 times, this is definitely a more desirable way to view the city. Allow me to count the ways for you: - It's much quieter in an electric boat. You can actually HEAR the expert guide. Also, because you're traveling at a lower speed, you're able to learn more historic details and ask questions. - There's less exposure to communicable diseases with your small group (hey, it's 2023 so you know what I mean). - It's BYOB, 'nuff said. - You can navigate further in the smaller boat. I actually saw parts of the river that I didn't know existed - even as a long-time local - such as the back of the REI store near Goose Island that landscaped beautiful native plants and flowers on the water. Our guide, Dave, was super friendly, knowledgeable and funny. I highly recommend this tour for both out-of-town tourists as well as locals!

Larry S

Wow! What a fun experience! The boat tour was the perfect way to see Chicago. Our tour guide, Dave was excellent! He was extremely knowledgeable about the history of Chicago and shared it in a relaxed conversational way. He even remembered our names. It was easy to get on the boat and even though it rained, we stayed dry. Oh, and you can bring snacks. I highly recommend this tour for people who are new to Chicago and people who live there. I learned a lot and enjoyed every minute of it.

angpC9776SG

This boat tour was such a lovely way to see the beautiful and historic sites along the Chicago River. Experiencing the River on a private boat was cozy and you’re able to have more of a conversation with the guide compared to other larger boat tours. Our guide was incredibly kind and knowledgeable and created a lovely experience. This is the best way to explore the Chicago River, you can get comfy, bring some snacks and float around!

marleynicole

Wow – what an incredible way to experience Chicago. It was super quick getting onto the boat, and the small group setting made it easy to ask questions. David is very personable, remembered everyone’s names and made the tour so fun!

retiredtwaguy

It’s been 20 years since I’d been to Chicago and I can’t believe how much it’s changed. This boat tour was a great way to take it all in in such a relaxing way. Our amazing guide Dave knew so much of the history and really gave a great perspective on how locals are affected by all this change good and bad. I would never have been able to see this much on foot and being on the water showcases Chicago in a beautiful way. I highly recommend this tour.

craig_millspaugh

The views of the city from the river are really amazing, and it’s a real treat to take in the architecture and history from the river with a knowledgeable tour guide. Really loved learning new things about the city all while on board a clean and quiet electric boat. And it’s BYOB haha. Had a great time and would definitely recommend!
Collected by Evendo, Tripadvisor & Viator
2024-05-04 15:59
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