Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

About this activity

An authentic Chicago tradition since 1935, this is the tour that started it all. This unique excursion tells the story of more than 200 years of fascinating social, cultural and political history, and explores more than a century of groundbreaking architecture. The journey begins with an up-close perspective of Chicago's internationally-known architecture as seen from the Chicago River. Then venture through the Chicago Lock on to the calm, cool waters of Lake Michigan for expansive views of Chicago's extraordinary 26-mile skyline. Take the selfie of a lifetime on this inspirational experience!

Itinerary

1. Chicago River · 45 min

   Lake and River Architecture Tours begin at Michigan Avenue and explore Chicago's amazing architecture along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. All tours are narrated by professional tour guides.

2. Lake Michigan · 45 min

   Your tour travels along Lake Michigan and explores Chicago's beautiful skyline.

3. 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.

4. Merchandise Mart · pass by

   The largest commercial building in the world.

5. Marina City · pass by

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

6. 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.

7. Wrigley Building · pass by

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

8. Chicago Riverwalk · pass by

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

9. The Lyric Opera House · pass by

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

Meeting point

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

End point: Arrive at 400 N Michigan Avenue 30 minutes before your departure and you will be directed to your boarding dock. Please allow yourself plenty of time to arrive if driving. We do not have parking. It is recommend that you book parking in advance.

Good to know

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Weapons prohibited by US Coast Guard
• Outside alcohol is prohibited
• All bags are subject to search
• Arrive 30 Minutes prior to your departure time
• Contact tour operator for wheelchair & ADA access
• Indoor and outdoor seating is available on a first come, first served basis
• Special requests entered at checkout cannot be guaranteed

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

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• 4 star253
• 3 star78
• 2 star48
• 1 star57

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