Chicago River: 90-Min Architecture Boat Tour

The Chicago River: 90-Min Architecture Boat Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s iconic skyline from the water. With landmarks like the Wrigley Building and Willis Tower as its backdrop, this tour provides an engaging architectural experience for just $32 per person. Passengers can relax in climate-controlled comfort while learning about the history and design of Chicago’s most notable buildings. Whether you’re a local or visiting, this tour promises to leave you captivated and eager to discover more about the city’s rich architectural heritage.

Key Points

• A 1.5-hour Chicago Architecture River Tour that showcases iconic structures like the Wrigley Building, Willis Tower, and Aqua Tower.
• Tour price is $32 per person with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, operating rain or shine with a flexible cancellation policy.
• Highlights include learning about Chicago’s architectural history, cruising past landmarks like Merchandise Mart and Navy Pier, and exploring diverse neighborhoods.
• The boat includes amenities like a restroom, outside seating, a climate-controlled interior, and food and drinks available for purchase.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 25 reviews, with praise for the informative and entertaining guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Chicago Architecture River Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover the city’s renowned landmarks from the waterfront.

This 1.5-hour activity provides an up-close look at iconic structures like the Wrigley Building, Willis Tower, and Aqua Tower. For $32 per person, guests can learn about Chicago’s rich architectural history and upcoming developments.

The tour operates rain or shine, and flexible cancellation allows for a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

The tour operates rain or shine, and flexible cancellation allows for a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Visitors can conveniently meet at the River City condominium parking lot and enjoy amenities like restrooms, seating, and climate-controlled interiors during the tour.

Highlights

Discover renowned landmarks during the Chicago Architecture River Tour, including the iconic Wrigley Building, Willis Tower, and Aqua Tower.

Marvel at the unique designs and historical significance of these architectural marvels. Learn about Chicago’s rich architectural history and upcoming developments that are shaping the city’s skyline.

Cruise past the Merchandise Mart, Navy Pier, Civic Opera House, and Trump Tower, gaining insights from the knowledgeable guides.

Venture into Chinatown, exploring the diverse neighborhoods that make up this vibrant city.

This 90-minute tour offers an engaging and immersive experience showcasing Chicago’s architectural gems.

Amenities

The boat features a restroom, outside seating, and a fully enclosed interior with air conditioning, seats, and windows, providing a comfortable and convenient experience for passengers.

For those interested in refreshments, food and drinks are available for purchase on board, though outside food and drinks are prohibited.

Plus, discounted parking rates ranging from $12 to $15 are available at the connected marina lot, offering a hassle-free way to start and end the tour.

• Restroom on board

• Food and drinks available for purchase

• Discounted parking nearby

Customer Experience

According to customer reviews, the Chicago Architecture River Tour has garnered an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 25 reviews.

Customers consistently praise the informative and entertaining guides, who bring the city’s architectural history to life. Many describe it as a fun way to spend time with friends and family, with recommendations to take the last tour for beautiful night views of the illuminated buildings.

The tour’s convenient location, accessible amenities, and flexible cancellation policy further contribute to the positive customer experience.

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Booking Information

To book the Chicago Architecture River Tour, visitors can reserve their spots in advance and pay later. The tour offers flexible cancellation, with a full refund if canceled 24 hours prior.

Additionally:

• Arrive 30 minutes before the tour start time, as seating is first-come, first-served.

• Child tickets (3 and under) are free but require registration.

• The tour operates rain or shine, and no refunds are provided for missed tours due to late arrival.

The tour’s meeting point is at 900 S Wells, Chicago, IL 60607, with discounted parking rates available at the connected marina lot.

Meeting Point

Visitors meet for the Chicago Architecture River Tour at 900 S Wells, Chicago, IL 60607.

This meeting point is the entrance through the parking lot behind the River City condominium. Participants must arrive 30 minutes prior to the tour start time, as seating is first-come, first-served.

The tour departs from this central location, providing easy access to the Chicago River and the city’s iconic architectural landmarks. Guests are advised to follow the clear signage and meet their tour group at the designated area to ensure a smooth and timely departure for the 90-minute river excursion.

Weather and Accessibility

The Chicago Architecture River Tour operates rain or shine, ensuring visitors can enjoy the scenic views and architectural highlights regardless of the weather.

While the tour location isn’t wheelchair accessible, the boat features some amenities to enhance the experience:

• Outside seating for optimal viewing

• Fully enclosed interior with air conditioning

• Restroom facilities on board

Although outside food and drinks are prohibited, the boat does offer food and beverages for purchase, allowing guests to stay comfortable and hydrated throughout the 90-minute journey.

Nearby Attractions

While exploring the architectural wonders along the Chicago River, visitors can easily access a variety of nearby attractions.

Navy Pier, a lively entertainment complex, offers carnival rides, theatres, and restaurants.

The Shedd Aquarium, one of the world’s largest indoor aquariums, showcases marine life from around the globe.

Art enthusiasts can visit the Art Institute of Chicago, home to iconic paintings like Grant Wood’s "American Gothic."

For sports fans, Wrigley Field, the historic home of the Chicago Cubs, is just a short distance away.

These diverse offerings ensure there’s something for all near the Chicago River tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Food and Drinks Are Available on the Boat?

Food and drinks are available for purchase on the boat, but outside food and drinks are prohibited. The boat offers a variety of refreshments for passengers to enjoy during the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages?

Outside food and drinks are prohibited on the boat. However, a variety of food and beverages are available for purchase on board, allowing passengers to enjoy refreshments during the tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour is suitable for young children, as it offers free admission for children 3 and under. However, the location is not wheelchair accessible, so families with strollers or mobility challenges may need to consider alternative options.

Are There Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention senior or student discounts. However, the website notes that children 3 and under can attend for free, so there may be other discounts available. It’s best to check with the tour provider directly for more information.

Can I Use My Mobile Device During the Tour?

Guests can use their mobile devices during the tour, though they’re advised to avoid obstructing others’ views. The tour guides encourage taking photos and sharing experiences on social media to capture the architectural highlights.

The Sum Up

The Chicago River: 90-Min Architecture Boat Tour offers a captivating and comfortable way to explore Chicago’s iconic skyline. With knowledgeable guides, notable landmarks, and convenient amenities, this tour is perfect for both families and architecture enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this 90-minute cruise provides an engaging and memorable experience that showcases the city’s architectural gems.

You can check availability for your dates here: