Viator Rating : 5 (165 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.0/10 (Solid Experience)
Chicago
Chicago's Architectural Gems: A Small-Group City & River Cruise Adventure
240
Overview
Best of Chicago tour offers an intimate exploration of the city's architectural marvels and iconic landmarks. Enjoy personalized insights from a local expert, hotel pickup, and a narrated river cruise showcasing over 40 landmarks. Visit Buckingham Fountain and the Cloud Gate for memorable photo opportunities. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (8 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (8 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (8 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Logistics (6 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (6 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Highlights
Iconic Architecture: Witness over 40 iconic Chicago landmarks from the river, gaining insights into their architectural significance.
Personalized Experience: Enjoy a small-group tour with a local expert providing unique stories and personalized recommendations.
Convenient Transportation: Benefit from complimentary downtown Chicago hotel pickup and drop-off for a hassle-free experience.
Must-See Landmarks: Visit the Adler Planetarium Pier, Buckingham Fountain, and the Chicago Bean (Cloud Gate) for iconic photo opportunities.
Sentiment Analysis
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience
-
Small group sizes provide a personal touch
-
Architectural river cruise is a standout feature
-
Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off are appreciated
Food and drinks are not included
-
Gratuities are not included
Review Summary
Customers find this tour highly valuable for first-time visitors to Chicago, consistently praising knowledgeable and friendly guides (particularly Robert, Jack, Tony, and Jake) who provide excellent city insights and personalized service.[1][2][4] The inclusion of the Architecture River Cruise and major attractions with pre-purchased admission is appreciated, and families note it's well-organized and convenient for avoiding navigation and parking hassles.[2][4] However, some travelers report concerns about vehicle sizing for larger parties, occasional booking company errors with ticket details, and the overall cost relative to purchasing attractions separately.[1][2] Despite pricing concerns from some visitors, most reviewers rate the experience highly, with guides consistently earning praise for making the tour enjoyable and informative.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Chicago
$45
Chicago Architecture River Cruise: See the Skyline!
4.8
(15754 reviews)
Duration: 60
minutes
Chicago Architecture River Cruise lets people see Chicago in a fun way. This boat tour goes down the Chicago River. People can see over 40 famous buildings, like the John Hancock Center and the Wrigley Building.
An expert guide tells people about the buildings and their history. It's a great way for everyone to see Chicago, even if they live there! People can sit and relax while seeing the city's amazing buildings. The boat goes to places like the Chicago River, Chicago Skyline, Navy Pier, and the Willis Tower. People will learn a lot about the city's buildings as they float by.
This boat tour includes live talking from an expert, and a tour of the Chicago River. Drinks cost extra to purchase, and there is no WIFI on the boat.
Chicago
$89
Chicago's Best Bites: A Delicious Bike & Brews Tour
4.9
(731 reviews)
Duration: 270
minutes
Bikes, Bites, and Brews: Chicago's Signature Dishes Bike Tour lets people taste all the best Chicago foods on two wheels! This 4 1/2-hour guided bike tour, led by the experts at Bobby’s Bike Hike, takes riders on a fun and yummy adventure. It was even ranked in the Top 20 tours in the world by TripAdvisor!
The easy 13-mile ride explores Chicago's famous eats, including deep-dish pizza and a Chicago-style hot dog. Sample local craft beers while seeing cool spots like the Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, and Wrigleyville, home of the Chicago Cubs. Night tours light up with Buckingham Fountain, Millennium Park, and downtown sights. Pedal along the Lakefront Trail, a top bike path, and discover the heart of Chicago.
This experience includes an expert local guide, a water bottle to stay hydrated, a bicycle, a helmet for safety, and delicious food and beer samples. The tour does not include the suggested $15 guide gratuity per person, payable via cash, Venmo, or PayPal. Get ready to roll, taste, and learn on this unforgettable Chicago adventure!
Chicago
$100.95
Chicago Food, History & Architecture Walking Tour
4.9
(1152 reviews)
Duration: 270
minutes
Chicago in a Day: Explore Food, History, and Iconic Architecture. This walking tour takes people through the heart of Chicago, showcasing its food, history, and buildings. It's a tasty way to see the city and learn some fun facts.
Visitors will walk along the Riverwalk, see the Wrigley Building, and snap photos at Millennium Park by Cloud Gate, also known as 'The Bean'. The tour also explores hidden spots like the Chicago Pedway and the bustling energy of Chicago's Main Artery. Expert local guides share stories about Chicago's past, from the Prohibition era to the Great Fire.
This tour includes stops at the Chicago Theatre, City Hall-County Building and the Loop. It includes Chicago's famous eats like deep-dish pizza, a Chicago-style hot dog, and Italian beef. The tour is limited to a small group of 12, making it personal and relaxed. This experience is run by a certified B Corp, which means they care about ethical and responsible tourism.
Chicago
$87
Chicago Food Tour: Bites, History & Secret Dishes!
4.9
(867 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Chicago Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours lets one savor the Windy City's vibrant flavors! This isn't just a food tour; it's a delicious journey through Chicago's history and culture, one bite at a time. This walking tour explores the famed Chicago Loop District, showcasing world-renowned architecture and public art. See landmarks like the Harold Washington Library Center, walk along LaSalle Street, admire The Flamingo (Calder Sculpture), and catch a glimpse of the Willis Tower (Sears Tower), The Rookery Building, and the Palmer House Hilton.
What can visitors expect? The tour includes the city's biggest food hits, many with roots dating back over 150 years. Imagine tasting the iconic deep-dish pizza, sinking your teeth into an amazing Italian beef sandwich, munching on gourmet popcorn, and savoring other treats. There's also a mouth-watering secret dish that’s revealed only on the day of the tour! The local guide will provide insights along the way.
The tour includes an Italian Beef Sandwich, a brownie, a Chicago-style Hot Dog, a delicious Secret Dish, Deep Dish Pizza with Sausage, and Gourmet Popcorn. It excludes hotel pickup and drop-off, and gratuities (optional).
Chicago
$89
Chicago Sightseeing Boat Tour: City Views & Skyline
5.0
(95 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
Small-Group Sightseeing Boat Tour in Chicago is the ultimate way to see the city! This custom experience gives folks amazing views and photo opportunities of Chicago's famous skyline.
The boat zips around local waterways, passing sights like Navy Pier and Soldier Field. See Fort Dearborn, the Vietnam Memorial, Wolf Point, and the Shedd Aquarium. This tour gives a unique and personal look at the City!
Folks will ride in a safe and strong Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB), originally built for the US NAVY. Life jackets are provided. The boat tour focuses on the Chicago skyline, including views of the Adler Planetarium. Please bring your own bottled water and sunscreen.
Chicago
$79.99
Chinatown Chicago: Food Tour & Hidden Gems
4.9
(599 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Explore Chicago's Chinatown on the Chinatown Food and Walking Tour. This tour shows off tasty food and cool history in one of America's best Chinatown neighborhoods. Bobby’s Bike Hike, known for top food tours recognized by USA Today and Tripadvisor, guides this fun walk. The tour lasts 3 hours.
Guests will walk through Chinatown Square. They'll taste yummy Cantonese dim sum, treats from Portuguese-Chinese bakeries, spicy Szechuan dishes, and Xi'an foods. Expert guides tell how these foods and cultures came to Chicago. You'll discover the unique history and flavors of Chicago's Chinatown.
The tour includes a local guide, dinner, and drinks. It doesn't include a suggested $10-15 tip for the guide, which can be given in cash, Venmo, or PayPal. This culinary adventure guides guests through stops like Dim Sum Restaurants, Noodle Restaurants, Portuguese Egg Tart Shops, and Chinatown Square. Learn about Chicago's Chinatown History & Culture as you enjoy the flavors of the neighborhood.
Nearby Events
Riviera Theatre- IL
May 02
8:00 PMCalum Scott Live in Chicago - May 2026
Calum Scott brings his emotive vocals and chart-topping hits to the Riviera Theatre in Chicago on May 2, 2026. The English singer-songwriter rose to international prominence after his electrifying performance of Robyn's "Dancing on My Own" on Britain's Got Talent in 2015, earning a Golden Buzzer from Simon Cowell and finishing sixth in the competition. His rendition of the song became a global phenomenon, peaking at number two on the UK Singles Chart and becoming Britain's best-selling single of summer 2016. Scott has since built a multi-platinum career with emotionally resonant ballads and powerful vocal performances that have garnered over a billion YouTube views.
Known for his deeply personal songwriting and heart-wrenching delivery, Calum Scott's discography includes breakthrough hits like "You Are the Reason," "Whistle" (featuring Jax Jones), and "Where Are You Now" (with Lost Frequencies). His 2018 debut album "Only Human" reached number four on the UK Albums Chart and showcased his ability to craft songs that resonate with audiences worldwide. The Riviera Theatre, a historic Chicago venue renowned for hosting intimate concerts and live performances, provides the perfect setting for Scott's passionate, emotionally charged performances.
Riviera Theatre- IL
Feb 20
7:30 PMRich Brian Live at Riviera Theatre Chicago
Rich Brian takes the stage at Riviera Theatre in Chicago for an electrifying hip-hop performance. The Indonesian rapper, known for breakout hits like 'Dat $tick' and his evolution from SoundCloud sensation to global star with albums like Amen* and *The Sailor*, delivers high-energy shows blending sharp lyricism and infectious beats.
Rich Brian's rise through 88rising has redefined Asian representation in hip-hop, captivating fans with his versatile flow and genre-bending tracks. The historic Riviera Theatre, a 1918 French Renaissance gem in Uptown with pristine acoustics from recent upgrades, elevates the intimate 2,500-capacity vibe.
Fiserv Forum
Mar 07
7:00 PMBucks vs Jazz Tickets at Fiserv Forum
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Utah Jazz lights up Fiserv Forum with high-stakes NBA action. Witness Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dominant play and Lauri Markkanen’s scoring prowess in a clash between Western Conference challengers and Central Division contenders.[1][2]
Both teams bring star power and intensity, with the Bucks defending their Emirates NBA Cup title from 2024 and the Jazz building momentum through key matchups. Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee’s premier arena, offers an electric atmosphere for unforgettable basketball.[6]
United Center
May 07
8:00 PMPeso Pluma Dinastia Tour: Chicago Tickets
Dinastia Tour by Peso Pluma & Friends lights up the United Center with the Mexican superstar's fully reimagined live spectacle, featuring elevated production, immersive creative elements, and surprise appearances by his rotating lineup of friends.[2][4] Named after his chart-topping album DINASTÍA, which debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Latin Albums and Regional Mexican Albums charts, this tour showcases Peso Pluma's evolution as a global Música Mexicana phenomenon following two sold-out U.S. runs.
Peso Pluma has redefined the genre with hits that dominate Spotify’s Global Albums chart and Billboard’s Global 200, blending raw corridos tumbados with massive stadium energy.[2] The United Center, Chicago's premier arena home to the Blackhawks and Bulls, delivers world-class acoustics for this epic night.[6]
United Center
Feb 28
5:30 PMWWE Elimination Chamber: Tickets at United Center
WWE Elimination Chamber is set to electrify the United Center in Chicago, promising a night of intense wrestling action. Fans can expect to see their favorite WWE superstars battling it out in the unforgiving Elimination Chamber structure. The event is known for its high-stakes matches and unpredictable outcomes, making it a must-see for wrestling enthusiasts.
WWE Elimination Chamber is one of WWE's signature events, known for its brutal and captivating matches. United Center, located in Chicago, is a renowned venue known for hosting major sporting events and concerts, providing a top-notch experience for all attendees.
United Center
Feb 19
7:00 PMBulls vs Raptors Tickets at United Center
Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors ignites the United Center with high-stakes NBA action, pitting the Central Division's gritty Bulls against the Atlantic's resilient Raptors. This Eastern Conference clash promises intense competition as both teams vie for positioning, highlighted by key players like Chicago's Nikola Vučević and Josh Giddey, and Toronto's Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley.[1][2][5]
Toronto Raptors bring their dynamic offense led by Barnes' rebounding prowess and Quickley's playmaking, while the Chicago Bulls counter with Vučević's scoring inside and Giddey's versatile assists in a matchup of rebuilding squads hungry for wins. The iconic United Center, home to Bulls legends, amplifies the electric atmosphere with its state-of-the-art facilities.[2][5]
Chicago Best Things to Do: Concerts, Helicopter & Food Tours
The Chicago skyline is hiding a secret- a ton of them, actually. It’s more than a view: it’s got adventures you're meant to explore. Breathe in the winds and excitement of a helicopter tour, party at top concerts, or dive into food and pizza tours. Walk beside history on a gangster mob tour, take a fireboat or bus tour. Looking to get wild tonight? Find events going on sooner than tomorrow, from EDM to country concerts. Check all your bucket list boxes, and live stories you’ll remember forever.
View Chicago Activities