chicago architecture boat tour shoreline sightseeing

Chicago River Architecture Tour

Chicago's Original Architecture Tour®

Experience the city’s legendary architecture from the best seat in the house—the river. Our experienced tour guides detail the 130 year long history behind the skyline, while our bartenders and staff keep you comfortable and entertained. This comprehensive tour navigates through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River. It’s the one thing everyone tells you to do in Chicago, done right.

Schedule & Tickets

• Adult: $44.00
• Child (4-12): $20.00
• Under 4: Free (ticket required)

TICKETS ARE NON REFUNDABLE BUT ARE TRANSFERABLE.

• Parking & Directions
• More Information
• Boarding begins 15-30 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.
• All bags are subject to inspection.
• Prohibited Items: Outside Alcohol, Weapons of any kind (Firearms, Knives, etc.), Flammables, Explosives.

Your boat includes:

Drinks & Snacks

Full-service bar with wine, local beer, and craft cocktails, as well as an assortment of snacks, all for purchase. Pinkies up!

Expert Tour Guide

Never boring, always entertaining.

Accessibility

Everyone should be able to enjoy our tours. We make sure you can.

No need to hold it. We have changing tables for the little ones who don’t know what holding it is.

Climate-Controlled Lounge

Keeping you cool when it's warm and warm when it's cool (or freezing).

*Not all amenities are available on every vessel.

BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE NOW

• Private Events
• Accessibility
• Terms Of Use
• Privacy Policy

Help us win Best Boat Tour in USA Today's Best of 2024 poll! Vote every day here !

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady

Architecture Adventure Awaits!

Explore Chicago’s iconic architecture aboard TripAdvisor’s #1 rated boat tour of the city. The only Chicago River cruise partnered with the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC), Chicago’s First Lady Cruises offers visitors the city’s most engaging 90-minute architectural tour experience.

Highly trained and enthusiastic volunteer CAC docents (guides) provide visitors with a compelling and detailed narrative of Chicago's numerous architectural styles and the stories of the legendary figures who designed and built our city.

Enjoy cruising in comfort and style aboard Chicago’s Finest Fleet, featuring unobstructed sightlines and guaranteed seating on our open-air upper decks and full-service cocktail and snack bars in our climate-controlled interior salons. You’ll see why visitors and locals alike consistently name our tour the best way to see Chicago.

Experience More!

Complete your architecture experience with a visit to the Chicago Architecture Center, just $5 with a General Boarding Ticket and valid for up to 7 days after your cruise.

Or, treat yourself to a Priority Boarding Ticket, which includes exclusive early boarding period, skip-the-queue during general boarding, and CAC admission.

View Route   Buy Tickets

General Boarding Tickets Start At

Ticket details.

• Priority Boarding tickets start at $69 and include exclusive early boarding period, skip-the-queue during general boarding, and Chicago Architecture Center admission.
• General Boarding tickets start at $54. Include a visit to the Chicago Architecture Center for just $5 more!
• Tickets can be purchased online , in-person at our dock during regular season hours or at the Chicago Architecture Center.
• Avoid the box office by choosing "eTickets" or "Print at Home" as your delivery method.
• Tour departures frequently sell out. Reserve your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Select "Will Call" to pick up your tickets at our dockside ticket office; bring your confirmation number.
• Each person must have a ticket including infants and children.
• Prices are subject to change.

Full Schedule

Early Spring March 17 - April 25

• Mon 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
• Tues 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
• Wed 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
• Thu 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
• Fri 10:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
• Sun 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm

Late Spring April 26 - May 23

• Mon 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm
• Tues 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
• Wed 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
• Thu 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm
• Fri 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm
• Sun 9:30 am 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:00 pm

Summer May 24 - October 14

• Mon 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:30 pm
• Tues 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm
• Wed 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 6:00 pm
• Thu 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:30 pm
• Fri 9:30 am 10:00 am 10:30 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 12:30 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 2:30 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:30 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:30 pm
• Sun 9:30 am 10:00 am 10:30 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 12:30 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 2:30 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:30 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:30 pm

Early Fall October 15 - November 3

• Mon 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
• Thu 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
• Fri 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:30 pm
• Sun 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm 6:00 pm

Late Fall November 4 - November 24

• Fri 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
• Sun 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm

2024 cruising season begins March 17th and extends through November 24th. Tickets on sale now!

We are located at Michigan Ave and Wacker Drive, Chicago IL

Tour Details & Tips

• Tour Duration 90 minutes
• Arrival Time Make sure your entire party arrives 30 minutes prior to departure.
• Priority Boarding Tickets  include exclusive early boarding period, skip-the-queue during general boarding, and Chicago Architecture Center admission.
• General Boarding Tickets begin boarding approximately 15 minutes before departure.
• Seating Open outdoor seating is guaranteed for all guests. The number on your ticket does not represent a seat number.
• Tour Route The tour travels all three branches of the Chicago River. View tour route map.  Route subject to change without notice.
• Cruises depart rain or shine. Tickets may not be refunded or exchanged if you miss your boat - allow extra time.
• What to Bring Your sunglasses, cap or visor, as the sun can interfere with your view of the buildings.
• Parking Discounted parking available at 111 E. Wacker Drive with proper validation from ticket office. Visit our  Location page  for more.
• Did you know? A portion of your ticket fee supports the educational work of the Chicago Architecture Center!
• Food & Drink  A full-service bar and snack bar are available on every vessel
• Outdoor Seating Each vessel features an open-air upper deck which allows guests to safely enjoy the outdoors
• Restrooms  Well-appointed restrooms are available on each vessel
• Free Stroller Storage  Strollers will be folded and stored in the interior salon during the cruise. Children must be removed from strollers before boarding.
• Limited Mobility Services Available  See our Location page for river-level drop-off directions for guests with accessibility needs. Our staff is also available to provide early boarding services for those with limited mobility.

“I learned so much and left with a vastly greater appreciation of Chicago's stunning skyline.” - Jennifer S. TripAdvisor, IL

Photo Gallery

• What sets your tours apart from the others?

We are the only tour that partners with the Chicago Architecture Center to offer the official Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady. All of our tours are given by experienced, volunteer docents who receive hundreds of hours of training from the Chicago Architecture Center before guiding the river cruise tour.

• How long is the tour?
• Each tour is 90 minutes.
• Is there food/drink available onboard?

Yes. All boats have a full service bar and small snacks onboard. Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted.

• Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

Advance reservations are recommended as many tours sell out during the busy summer season and on weekends.

• Is there assigned seating?

All seating is general admission. There is enough seating for all guests to sit on our open air upper decks safely and with proper distancing measures in place. While seat numbers are printed on the tickets, you can ignore these as they are not valid.

• Are tours offered in any languages other than English?

We are happy to offer free foreign language audio guides in Spanish, French, Japanese and Korean. Scan the QR code onboard for instructions. Mobile data for app download required.

• Do I have to print my tickets?
• You do not have to print your tickets. You can show your mobile ticket to our dock attendant with your smartphone, or you can have your tickets printed at the dockside will call window (be sure to bring a photo ID and your confirmation number).
• Does the boat go on the lake?

No, the tour is only on the Chicago River. If you’d like to take a lake tour, please check out our sister cruise line Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline .

• Are there restrooms onboard?

Yes, all the boats have restrooms onboard. There are also wheelchair accessible bathrooms on the Classic Lady, Leading Lady, and Emerald Lady. Please note: the restrooms close 15 minutes before the end of the tour for safety reasons.

• Can I bring luggage onboard?
• Due to security reasons, luggage cannot be brought onboard. There is not an area to store your luggage dockside either. We recommend having your hotel hold your luggage.
• Can I bring a stroller onboard?
• Yes, you can bring a stroller onboard. Children must be removed from strollers before boarding. Strollers will be folded and stored in the salon during the cruise.
• Are there changing tables onboard?

The Classic Lady, Leading Lady, and Emerald Lady have changing tables onboard in the family restroom. The Little Lady, Fair Lady, and First Lady do not have changing tables onboard.

• Are dogs allowed onboard?

Only service dogs are allowed onboard. Our sister company, Mercury , offers the popular Canine Cruise on summer weekends.

• How can I get to your dock without using stairs?

There are two ways to reach our dock along Chicago’s Riverwalk without using stairs: 1. On foot via the ramp located on Wacker Drive at State Street. 2. Vehicle drop-off area on Lower Wacker Drive. Visit our location page for more information.

• Can I trade my tickets for a different date/time?
• No, all tickets are nonrefundable and nonexchangeable.
• Do you cruise rain or shine?
• Yes, we cruise rain or shine. All the boats have two levels – the top deck is open-air, and the lower deck is an enclosed, climate-controlled salon. Each salon is surrounded by large windows so you can stay comfortable while still taking in the magnificent views. Tour commentary is broadcast over speakers on both levels.
• Are the boats wheelchair accessible?

Chicago's Leading Lady, Chicago’s Classic Lady, and Chicago's Emerald Lady are wheelchair-accessible. These vessels cruise at the 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 5pm departure times. When boarding, guests cross two ramps and enter through a 36-inch-wide opening (doorway). Crew members will assist in guiding the wheelchair across the gangway. Please present yourself to our staff if you prefer to board before general boarding starts. Guests unable to climb stairs to the upper deck may choose to sit in the open-air bow or the enclosed, climate-controlled salon with large windows. For safety reasons, motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated. Guests who are able to transfer may use the company's manual wheelchair based on availability. Visit our accessibility page for more information.

Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours

Chicago River Tours | Fireworks Tours | Jazz/Cocktail Tours

River Boat Tours

Book your tour now, book by phone: (708) 488-6343, about the tours, chicago river boat architecture tours .

Welcome to Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours!  We’re proud to present you with an in-depth, expert architectural-based river boat tour that delves into one of the most remarkable American cities today. Known for unique, daring, and historical architectural pursuits, it’s hard to cover all of the design and building treasures that make up the Windy City today. If you’re ready to learning more about the designs, people, and innovations behind these creations, throw on your captains hat and get ready to cruise along the Chicago River and see what architects from around the world travel to see in Chicago.

About The Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours

Chicago is known around the world for its architectural feats, both inside and outside of the buildings. From the 100-year-old Art Deco, Neo-Classical, and Gothic Towers, to some of the tallest modern-day skyscrapers, Chicago is where old meets futuristic architectural endeavors. It has something for everyone in a way that no other city replicates today.

Why Tour Chicago’s Architecture with Us?

We are born-and-raised Chicagoans ourselves, passionate about the community that we know and love. That passion and desire spills into all of our tours, drawing on personal experiences for curating a tour that just can’t be duplicated by a book or a movie. We want you to experience everything firsthand. Why tour with us?

• Expertise: All of our tour guides are either architects, architecture students, or architecture historians, making for an in-depth and personally rooted kind of touring experience that covers all of the discreet details.
• Variety: We offer a variety of uniquely different tours that cover everyone’s individual taste. We offer the Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour that takes you down the famous Chicago River; there are several different options such as Architecture, History, Cocktail Cruises and Firework Viewing Tours
• Flexibility : We want you to enjoy your Chicago River Boat touring experience, which is why we’re happy to talk with you and learn more about how our tours can accommodate you, your party, or your corporate outing. Our tours run daily, with availability always posted on our website here.

Our Tours  

• Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour : When in Chicago, cruising down the Chicago River is  a must. Except with us, you’ll be taking in the architecture of the buildings that line the beautiful river. We provide detailed explanations of the construction and history of over 50 significant buildings, wrapping up at the end of the river.
• Chicago River Boat Cocktail Tour : Join us for this great Architecture Tour while sipping craft cocktails, beer or wine available for purchase at our bar on board!
• Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruise :  Fireworks, one of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China were invented in the 12th century. Chicago approved City-Wide Use of Fireworks on the 4th of July 1893,. Mayor of Chicago Patrick Eugene Prendergast issued a proclamation approving the use of fireworks to celebrate the World’s Colombian Exposition and to celebrate the nation’s 117th Independence Day. This fascination with fireworks, noise, and color continues today. The City of Chicago offers a fireworks show at Navy Pier on Saturday nights at 10:15 p.m. The Fireworks Cruise sails on both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan each Saturday at 8:30 pm.

Our Commitment to Your Touring Experience

We believe that tours should be entertaining, enlightening, informational, and perfectly organized, every single time. A tour shouldn’t feel laborious in any way; you should feel an effortless inclination to learn more about what we present at your fingertips. With our Chicago architectural tours, that’s exactly what we strive to provide, basing each tour from the perspective of an expert with the real-life example in the background.

If you’re thinking about booking a tour with us, know that our commitment to flexibility and accessible makes our Chicago Architecture Tours easy and convenient:

• 3 pm *Not Available Friday thru Sunday Summer Months*
• 6:30 pm (Jazz Band, Cocktail w/bar) *Sunday Only*
• 8 pm (Wednesdays)
• 8:30 pm (Saturdays)
• Seniors $48
• Youths $30 (7-12 years old)
• Children 6 and under Free

BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY

Click Here to Purchase a Gift Certificate

Chicago river boat cocktail tour.

Join us in the evening to sip cocktails while cruising the historic Chicago River! Get the same tour just with a cocktail in your hand! Premium bar on board with craft cocktails, wine and beer available for purchase. Drinks may be purchased individually with a credit card on the boat. Tour Information Pricing Adults $49… Continue reading Chicago River Boat Cocktail Tour

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Chicago river boat architectural tour.

Forming a length of 156 miles when combined, the Chicago River is a system of rivers and canals the characterize the infamous skyline of Chicago today. The river, running through the city, including the city center Chicago Loop, is evident of man made design and infrastructure when completed craftily. In 1887, the river was reversed… Continue reading Chicago River Boat Architectural Tour

Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruises (w/ Architecture Tour)

Enjoy your favorite drink while gazing Chicago’s magnificent architecture and finish your cruise with fabulous light show, at Navy Pier. Fireworks, one of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China were invented in the 12th century. Chicago approved City-Wide Use of Fireworks on the 4th of July 1893,. Mayor of Chicago Patrick Eugene Prendergast issued… Continue reading Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruises (w/ Architecture Tour)

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

Experience why we're the #1 rated boat cruise in Chicago, tickets are on sale now for the 2024 season!

Buy Tickets

Voted number one boat tour in North America in 2024 and a Top 10 Boat Tour in North America by USA Today readers for 4 years in a row as well as Chicago Reader's Best Tour for over 10 years and the " Best Chicago Experience " by CS magazine! Looking for the ultimate Chicago architecture experience? Buy a combo ticket for the river cruise AND visit the Chicago Architecture Center—you'll save $9!

For more than 25 years, the CAC's expertly trained docent volunteers have led the CAC River Cruise, sharing fascinating stories behind more than 50 buildings along the Chicago River. Hear how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world's largest cities in less than 100 years. In just 90 minutes, you'll get the best overview of Chicago’s architecture and its history.

The CAC River Cruise is available in 4 languages: Continental French, Latin American Spanish, Japanese and Korean. To access these languages, please download the "Listen Everywhere" app in advance. Once you are on board the boat, the app will connect and allow you to listen in your selected language as the boat makes its way down the river.

*Continue your exploration with a visit to the CAC! Combo tickets include admission to the Center for just $5 (regular price $14). Admission is valid up to 7 days before or after your cruise.

*Please note that infant tickets must be purchased with a Priority or General Boarding Adult ticket. 

Evening River Cruise

The city's most popular tour is now offered in the evening. Serene and bathed in softer light, the city's architecture takes on a whole new life in the setting sun. Wind-down from the work-week by enjoying a cocktail with friends and family and experience Chicago's skyline on our luxury boats.

All departures lATER THAN 5:00 PM

• CAC Members please call 312.922.8687 or come to the CAC Box Office at 111 E. Wacker Drive to redeem your BOGO benefit. 
• You can buy a CAC membership over the phone and redeem your BOGO annual benefit at the time of your membership purchase.
• Each person must have a ticket, including infants and children.
• All tours depart rain or shine.
• Arrive 30 minutes prior to your cruise departure time. Allow extra time for traffic and parking in summer.
• Cruise guests board 15 minutes before departure time.
• GENERAL ADMISSION SEATING
• A full-service bar and snack bar are available onboard.
• Tickets start at $54.00 for daytime cruises, $59.00 for evening cruises. Upgrade your ticket for $5 to include Chicago Architecture Center admission. Your visit must occur within 7 days before or after your tour.  View the CAC's hours .
• Tickets may not be refunded or exchanged if you miss your boat. Allow extra time.
• Find more information, including available parking, in our FAQs

Interested in a tour for a group of 20 or more? Please contact our group sales team at [email protected] . Private rentals are available.

Directions to Chicago’s First Lady boat dock

See a map here  or enter 112 E. Wacker Drive into your GPS. Located at the northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, a black awning marks the boat dock entrance stairs that lead down to the river. If you have limited mobility, see these directions  for an alternative way to reach the dock.

About our Boat Partner

We’re proud to partner with Chicago’s First Lady Cruises, operator of Chicago’s finest fleet of cruising vessels. Its boats hold up to 250 passengers and feature open-air upper decks, full-service bars, climate-controlled lower cabins and upscale marble and granite restrooms. Being onboard is sure to be an experience you'll never forget. 

Photos From This Tour

Upcoming Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady Tours

Wednesday jun 12.

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Thursday Jun 13

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Friday Jun 14

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Saturday Jun 15

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Sunday Jun 16

Monday jun 17, highlights of this tour.

Chicago Riverwalk

1 w. lower wacker drive.

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360 n. michigan ave..

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330 North Wabash / AMA Plaza (IBM Plaza)

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150 North Riverside

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a large vertical, concrete pier, cast in place and used in a foundation where the soil is unstable

333 West Wacker

333 w. wacker dr..

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Apple Michigan Avenue

401 n. michigan ave..

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Merchandise Mart

222 w. merchandise mart plaza.

Size has always mattered in the Midwest.

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Shoreline Sightseeing: Architecture River Tour

Shoreline Sightseeing has been leading guided tours on Lake Michigan and along the Chicago River for approximately 80 years. For the past 20 years, they’ve been running their very popular Architecture River tour for local Chicago residents and visitors from all over the world alike. Throughout this well-regarded excursion you’ll have terrific views of a number of Chicago’s most significant buildings and architectural treasures, all while enjoying a pleasant boat ride that takes you down all three branches of the Chicago River.

Money Saving Tip ! This tour is included in the Go Chicago Card as well as the Chicago Explorer Pass . Both Chicago Tourist Passes can save you a lot of money if you are going to multiple Chicago attractions .

Architecture River Tour Details

One immediate perk of the Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River tour is that it offers you with the flexibility of two different boarding options. You can join the Architecture River tour from Shoreline Sightseeing’s docks at either Navy Pier or near Michigan Avenue—it’s your choice of whatever’s more convenient for you. From there, you’ll be hosted by your professionally trained guide, who’ll provide you an informative and entertaining narration highlighting some 40 different Chicago landmarks. In all, the Architecture River tour lasts approximately 75 minutes. From their Michigan Avenue location, tours typically depart every 45 to 60 minutes between the hours of 10:00am and 5:00pm—though availability does vary depending on time of the year and day of the week. Tours depart less frequently from Navy Pier, but there are still routinely multiple outings daily—just make sure to check their website in advance of your visit for more details. Tickets usually run in the neighborhood of $40 for adults and $20 for children between the ages of 3 and 12. Kids 2 and under can join the tour for free. Shoreline Sightseeing also operates a Spanish-language version of the Architecture River tour daily from their Michigan Avenue location.

Architecture River Tour Major Highlights

Tribune Tower: Situated just steps from the Chicago River, right along bustling Michigan Avenue, the Tribune Tower is a true Chicago landmark. This unmistakable neo-Gothic building was built in 1925 to house the offices of the Chicago Tribune , and it remains a beautiful symbol of the Windy City to this day.

Wrigley Building: Located just across the street from Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building is regarded as one of the city’s great architectural gems. Its iconic clock tower has loomed over Michigan Avenue and the Chicago River for almost a century, and is a must-see structure for any visitors to downtown Chicago.

Marina City: Though the famed “corncob towers” of Marina City are a perennial favorite of sightseers, the Marina City complex itself takes up nearly an entire city block of legendary State Street. Its home to a remarkable number of amenities, including (of course) a marina, multiple restaurants, a concert venue, and a bowling alley.

Merchandise Mart: Checking in at a whopping 4 million square feet in size, this colossal structure found right on the north side of the Chicago River was the single largest building in the entire world when it first opened in 1930. Merchandise Mart is such a massive facility that it even had its own zip code until a recent postal reorganization! Today it houses numerous shops and restaurants, while also serving as the office headquarters for many different businesses.

Is the Architecture River Tour for You?

Shoreline Sightseeing’s Architecture River tour is consistently one of the most highly rated water-based guided tours offered anywhere in Chicago. Most Architecture River tour participants report back that they greatly enjoyed their experience with Shoreline Sightseeing, and that they particularly liked their personable and knowledgeable tour guide. The Architecture River tour isn’t cheap by any means, but it’s priced pretty similarly to other similar excursions—so if you’re in the market for a guided tour of Chicago’s many architectural wonders that cruises along the scenic Chicago River, this is likely a really good option for you and your group/family.

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Architecture River Tour with Shoreline Sightseeing

Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

Architecture

Shoreline Sightseeing is a unique and memorable way to discover the beauty and history of Chicago’s famous architecture.

Discover why Shoreline Sightseeing's Architecture River Tour, which was rated the #1 Tour in America by TripAdvisor, is a must-do adventure for both locals and visitors from around the world! Led by Shoreline’s experienced, educated, and entertaining docents, this 75-minute tour includes details, facts, and the history of more than 40 buildings that line the Chicago River. Find out how Chicago rose from the ashes of the Great Chicago Fire to become the birthplace of the skyscraper and how Chicago has ties to architecture marvels like the Burj Khalifa.

Enjoy breathtaking views and outstanding photo opportunities as you cruise down all three branches of the Chicago River. Shoreline Sightseeing has two docks, both conveniently located at popular Chicago attractions. Depart on your open-air boat from the NW corner of the Michigan Ave Bridge  or from Polk Bros Park at the southwest corner of Navy Pier.

Shoreline Sightseeing’s Architecture River Tour departs daily and frequently March – November. Advanced tickets are recommended to secure a spot on this one-of-a-kind tour. Shoreline’s tour schedule is posted daily at shorelinesightseeing.com .

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Architecture River Cruise Tickets

Architecture cruise chicago packages, architecture river tour + choice of show.

Step aboard the Shoreline Architecture River Cruise from Navy Pier and discover the magic of the Windy City’s architectural wonders! Glide past over 40 iconic buildings, from the majestic John Hancock Center to the historic Wrigley Building, as your expert guide provides detailed descriptions. Kids age 2 and under are free, and the tour is dog-friendly, too! up to 1.2 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

• Experience over 40 amazing landmarks such as the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City.
• Knowledgeable and entertaining guides provide details of Chicago’s famous landmarks as you pass by.
• Children age 2 and under are free, but please select a ticket for them even though they are free.
• Departs from Shoreline Sightseeing's dock at Navy Pier and lasts about 75 minutes.
• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
• Drinks and light snacks items are available for purchase from the onboard bar by credit card only.
• Dogs are welcome on board as long as they are leashed, so bring your furry friend!
• Shoreline's Navy Pier dock is easily accessible for wheelchair users and guests with mobility concerns.

Description

Architecture River Tour from Navy Pier Reviews

Architecture River Tour from Navy Pier is located at Shoreline Sightseeing • 124 N Streeter Drive • Chicago , IL 60611

Nearby Things to Do

• Skyline Lake Tour
• Chicago's Lakefront Neighborhoods Bicycle Tour
• Bikes, Bites, & Brews - Chicago's Signature Dishes
• Chicago's Ultimate City Bike Tour
• Chicago Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

Nearby Hotels & Lodging

• Courtyard Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile
• InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, an IHG Hotel
• River Hotel
• Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown
• Hilton Chicago Magnificent Mile Suites

Frequently Asked Questions about Architecture River Tour from Navy Pier

Where does the cruise depart from.

The tour departs from Shoreline Sightseeing's Navy Pier dock, which sits at the entrance to the iconic Navy Pier boardwalk.

When should I arrive?

Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.

What can I expect to see in this Architecture River Tour?

You can expect to see over 40 landmarks including the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City.

How long is the Architecture River Tour?

This Chicago river cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.

Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes! This is a family friendly tour and children under the age of 3 can join free of charge.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, this Chicago river cruise from Navy Pier is accessible to wheelchairs and guests with mobility concerns.

What happens if it rains?

The tour schedule depends on the weather. The tour will usually sail during the summer, though bad weather could result in a reduced schedule. The captain will decide whether conditions are unsafe, and they have discretion to delay or cancel the cruise accordingly.

Is it better to cruise during daytime or evening?

The architectural details of the famous buildings are more clearly visible during the day. When the city lights turn on, however, Chicago’s architecture will be highlighted in a different but remarkable way. Many guests have ended up taking both day and evening tours because they both offer unique experiences respectively.

Are there restrooms on the tour boats?

Yes, there are restrooms available on the boats.

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Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture Tour

• 600 East Grand Ave. Chicago 60611 United States
• (312) 222-9328
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Price — $33.00

Enjoy the diverse sites of Chicago by boat!

• Mon-Fri Closed
• Saturday Closed
• Sunday Closed

Day and evening departures daily through October 31, beginning at 10:00am Mon-Sun

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Take in Chicago’s iconic skyline & the scenic Chicago River

Architecture & Sightseeing Cruises

Discover chicago's architecture & sights from the water.

Take in the iconic Chicago iconic skyline and the magnificent Chicago River with one of our sightseeing cruises at Navy Pier!

Ranging from 40-90 minutes in length, sightseeing cruises offer guests panoramic city views along with entertaining and enlightening commentary about Chicago’s architecture and history.

Architecture & Sightseeing Cruises

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Take Shoreline’s award-winning 75-minute Architecture River Tour to discover Chicago’s renowned landmarks as presented by our expert and entertaining guides. You’ll learn how Chicago rose...

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Tremendous! - Shoreline Sightseeing

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Tremendous!

Wonderfully interesting tour of a historic setting! The river was clean and bright. The buildings were large and imposing, but beautiful!

I was with my wife for a conference and came on this cruise myself first. It was so good I brought her back 2 days later to do the trip again! No we are not architecture fiends it’s just a great way to learn about the city. Guides are all knowledgable experts giving their time for free to the architecture centre. No tips just a great friendly cruise. Boat was comfortable . Good weather helps!! Recommended .

The guide was amazing, Lots of information, interesting facts, trivia and history. And you get to see so much of Chicago in a short time.

On a short trip to Chicago for Memorial Day week-end –this was a highlight – the Chicago Architecture River Cruise 45 minute tour with our excellent tour guide – whose name escapes me (sorry) was well organized and relaxing, even though chock full with information on the beautiful landscape that surrounded us You spend most of your time looking up at the phenomenally rich architecture, not only admiring the creativity, and competency but the history that gives a story that you shouldn’t leave Chicago without experiencing – even though it was an overcast day and cool (I am always prepared with a shawl) the experience wasn’t dampened The dock is centrally located – able to walk to Millennium Park ( BYW ‘the Bean” culture is gated off- only photographed through openings in the gate) following the boat ride (and I am a seasoned citizen) making this activity time and money well spent

This was fun and very interesting. The docent was an archetucure expert. Learned a lot about architecture. I wish I could remember more of it. Worth it.

This was a really good tour. Our guide was great and injected humour into the tour. Very informative. I thought it was a good perspective to see the city from the water !

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Experience Chicago from a new perspective with cruises and boat tours. Take in iconic landmarks and breathtaking views of the city as you travel across serene waters. Chicago cruises and boat tours will take you on an adventure like no other.

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