Name: Chicago Architecture River Cruise
SKU: 5580ARC
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.8 (17161 reviews)

WizardTrip

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

4.8(17 k)· Chicago· By Shoreline Sightseeing Watch the video

Free cancellation

From

€35per person

1 to 30 travelers per booking.

Options4 of 5 available on this day

Time

1 × Adult × €50.77€50.77

Total€50.77

About the activity

Discover the breathtaking architecture of Chicago with a captivating cruise along the historic Chicago River. This tour navigates the main branch of the river, heads north to the East Bank Club, and then proceeds south past the renowned Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) towards the historic Old Post Office Building. Admire the magnificent city skyline, passing by over 40 significant buildings. Key landmarks include: John Hancock Center: A defining skyscraper of the Chicago skyline. Wrigley Building: Recognizable by its striking white facade and clock tower. Throughout your journey, an expert architecture guide will share fascinating details about the unique designs and history of these architectural masterpieces. This tour provides an unparalleled perspective on one of the world's most beautiful cities, perfect for both residents and first-time visitors. Relax and enjoy as Chicago's architectural wonders unfold before you.

What's included

✓Pet-friendly cruise
✓Restroom facilities available on board
✓Live expert commentary provided during the cruise
✓Guided architecture cruise along the historic Chicago River

What is not included

✕Beverages are available for purchase
✕Onboard WiFi is not available

Itinerary

1
Chicago River
The cruise takes place on the Chicago River.
· 1 h
2
Chicago Skyline
Enjoy an amazing view of the city's skyline as you pass by.
· Non-stop passage
3
Navy Pier
Pass by Navy Pier, featuring 50 acres of parks, promenades, gardens, shops, eateries, and attractions, including a 15-story Ferris wheel.
· Non-stop passage
4
Tribune Tower
See the Tribune Tower, a neo-gothic structure notable for its exterior collection of stones from famous edifices like the Parthenon, St. Peter's Basilica, Notre Dame, the White House, and the Berlin Wall.
· Non-stop passage
5
John Hancock Center
View the John Hancock Center, a 100-story, 1,128-foot supertall skyscraper.
· Non-stop passage
6
Marina City
Observe Marina City, whose twin corncob towers are a distinctive feature of Chicago’s urban landscape.
· Non-stop passage
7
Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower
Pass by the Willis Tower, once the tallest building in the world, which remains a striking presence on the skyline.
· Non-stop passage
8
Aqua Tower
Admire the Aqua Tower, a modern architectural wonder recognized for its unique wave-like balconies.
· Non-stop passage

How to use your ticket

Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. One ticket is required per traveler.

Meeting point and return

FROM NAVY PIER: Departures are from the Shoreline Sightseeing docks at Polk Bros Park, located at 124 N Streeter Drive.

FROM MICHIGAN AVE: Departures are from the Shoreline Sightseeing docks at 401 N Michigan Ave, situated at the northeast corner of the Historic Michigan Ave. (Dusable) Bridge, alongside Chicago's Honored Pioneer Court.

FROM NAVY PIER: Returns are to the Shoreline Sightseeing docks at Polk Bros Park, located at 124 N Streeter Drive.

FROM MICHIGAN AVE: Returns are to the Shoreline Sightseeing docks at 401 N Michigan Ave, situated at the northeast corner of the Historic Michigan Ave. (Dusable) Bridge, alongside Chicago's Honored Pioneer Court.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This product has two distinct departure locations based on the option selected. Please ensure you proceed to the correct location corresponding to your booking (either 401 N. Michigan Avenue or Navy Pier).

From November 11, 2024, through April 2025, all tours will have a duration of 60 minutes.

Once your order is finalized, no modifications can be made. Any additional passengers require a separate reservation.

This serves as your ticket. Please proceed directly to the boarding line where a Shoreline greeter, identifiable by their bright orange attire, will assist you.

Kindly arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

Public parking is available in a ramp located at 316 E. Illinois St, Chicago IL 60611. Please note that parking incurs an additional fee.

Meeting point

124 N Streeter Dr

124 N Streeter Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, États-Unis

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Practical information

Convenient access to public transportation is available nearby.
The tour is suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels.
All vessels are equipped with full restrooms and a complete bar service.
The type of vessel assigned cannot be guaranteed, as some are single-deck vessels.
Wheelchairs or other mobility assistance equipment are not provided.
The cruises are welcoming to dogs.
Tours can be rescheduled through Viator up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure date.
Wheelchair accessibility is available exclusively from the Navy Pier dock.

Activity options

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
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
Classic Tour from Michigan Ave
Duration: 1 hour
Starting point: 401 North Michigan, 401 N Michigan Ave, 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 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

Duration

1 h à 1 h 15

How to prepare for your experience

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
Confirm your departure location carefully (Navy Pier or Michigan Ave).
Dress for the weather, as the cruise is outdoors.
Consider purchasing drinks from the onboard bar.
This tour is accessible for all fitness levels.

Discover Chicago's iconic architecture from the unique vantage point of the Chicago River.

Cancellation conditions

A full refund is granted for cancellations made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.

Any questions?

Product code: 5580ARC

Activity offered by Shoreline Sightseeing via Viator.

Who is this activity suitable for?

Architecture enthusiasts
First-time visitors to Chicago
Tourists seeking scenic city views
Families
Dog owners

Activity essentials

Stunning views of the Chicago skyline
Expert architectural commentary
Relaxing river cruise experience
Multiple departure options
Pet-friendly

Read before you go

Architecture Cruise on the Chicago RiverGuide · 7 min read

Chicago: good to know

Population: 2,746,388 (2020)
Currency: United States dollar
Driving: on the right
Power plugs: A, B · 120 V
Emergency number: 911
Capital city: Washington, D.C.

Average temperatures

-3°Jan
-2°Feb
2°Mar
7°Apr
12°May
18°Jun
23°Jul
23°Aug
19°Sept
12°Oct
6°Nov
0°Dec

Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.

Frequently asked questions

What is the duration of the tours?

Tours typically last between 1 hour and 1 hour 15 minutes. From November 11, 2024, through April 2025, tours will be 60 minutes in length.

Are there different departure points?

Yes, there are two departure locations: Navy Pier (124 N Streeter Drive) and Michigan Avenue (401 N Michigan Ave). Please ensure you go to the location that matches your booked option.

Can I bring my pet on the cruise?

Yes, the cruises are dog-friendly.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The cruise may be canceled in case of inclement weather.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, all boats are equipped with full restrooms.

Reviews

4.84.8(17 k)

5 stars

15 k

4 stars

1.1 k

3 stars

254

2 stars

108

1 star

218

Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.

★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Guide provided great information!
Escape42081778016, October 2026
The guide was fantastic - very informative and really made us look at the city of Chicago differently. So impressive. Tour was fantastic but a little overpriced.
★★★★★Viator review
Explore the city from the river
Nathan_M, October 2026
Best thing to do in Chicago. Very knowledgeable boat tour to explore the city from the river. Amazing history of second city.
★★★★★Viator review
We loved this cruise! ...
kate_l, October 2026
We loved this cruise! Our docent was knowledgeable and fun. I took 8 and 10 year old boys who were not engaged the entire time but did not mind being on the boat just looking around (mom tip- bring a fidget!).
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Fascinating tour
Trineane, October 2026
This tour was so interesting, the tour guide was really great!!
★★★★★Viator review
Night tour
Michele_C, October 2026
Great experience. First time on an architectural tour. Definity recommend taking the night tour. It was chilly so I wish i would have dressed for the weather. My bad.

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Plan your trip

Guide · 7 min readArchitecture Cruise on the Chicago RiverThree cruises of 1 to 1.5 hours on the Chicago River: Shoreline Sightseeing from two docks, Wendella and the First Lady. Lengths, departures, prices, accessibility and cancellation are compared.

Frequently asked questions about Chicago

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Chicago has 11 activities, tours and day trips you can book online. Among the most booked: « Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in Chicago », « Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour », « Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour ».

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Can you cancel an activity in Chicago for free?

Usually, yes: 9 of the 11 most popular activities in Chicago offer free cancellation. The exact terms are shown on each activity page before you book.