Viator Rating : 5 (1634 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.1/10 (Verified Excellent)
Chicago
Chicago River Architecture Boat Tour: See Top Landmarks!
90
Overview
The Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour lets people see amazing buildings along the Chicago River. Expert guides tell stories about the city's famous places. This tour is for everyone!
You'll see places like the Wrigley Building and the Willis Tower. The boat goes to Navy Pier and even to Chinatown! You can learn about old buildings and new ones being built.
This boat has seats inside with air conditioning and windows. There are also seats outside if you want to be in the sun. There are bathrooms on the boat. You can buy drinks and snacks, and parking is close by. This tour shows you the best of Chicago from the river! 
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
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Highlights
See Chicago's Best Buildings: Marvel at famous landmarks like the Wrigley Building and Willis Tower from the Chicago River.
Learn from Expert Guides: Hear interesting stories about Chicago's history and architecture from knowledgeable tour guides.
Ride in Comfort: Enjoy air-conditioned indoor seating or relax on the outdoor deck.
Explore the Whole River: Cruise all three branches of the Chicago River, including Navy Pier and Chinatown.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the interesting facts and stories shared by the tour guides.
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Many enjoyed seeing the famous buildings and learning about Chicago's history.
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Riders appreciated the chance to see the city from a different view.
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The tour's timing was good for seeing many sights.
Some found it hard to hear the guide sometimes.
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A few people thought the seats could be more comfy.
The Journey
Wrigley Building
Gleaming white against the Chicago skyline, the Wrigley Building stands as a testament to architectural elegance and the legacy of the Wrigley chewing gum empire. Modeled after the Seville Cathedral's Giralda Tower, this iconic landmark on the Magnificent Mile invites visitors to marvel at its intricate detailing and vibrant illumination at night. Step back in time as you admire this masterpiece, a symbol of Chicago's pioneering spirit and a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.
Willis Tower
Ascend to the heights of Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, and experience breathtaking panoramic views of Chicago and beyond. As one of the tallest buildings in the world, this architectural marvel offers a unique perspective on the city's dynamic landscape. Dare to step onto The Ledge, glass boxes extending from the 103rd floor, for an unforgettable and exhilarating experience that will leave you in awe of Chicago's grandeur.
Aqua Tower
Prepare to be mesmerized by the Aqua Tower, an architectural wonder that defies conventional skyscraper design. Its undulating, wave-like balconies create a stunning visual effect, mimicking the flow of water and adding a touch of artistic flair to Chicago's skyline. As a mixed-use residential building in the Lakeshore East development, Aqua Tower offers a unique blend of art and architecture and it's a marvel to behold both from afar and up close.
Chinatown
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Chicago's Chinatown, a historic neighborhood brimming with authentic cuisine, traditional shops, and captivating cultural landmarks. Wander through the bustling streets, savor delectable dim sum, and admire the ornate architecture of the Chinatown Gate. Discover the rich heritage and traditions of this dynamic community, a testament to the city's diverse cultural tapestry and a captivating destination for exploration.
Merchandise Mart
Explore the Merchandise Mart, a sprawling architectural icon housing premier home showrooms and innovative office spaces. More than just a commercial hub, the Mart hosts public art installations and events, offering a glimpse into the intersection of design, business, and culture. Admire the building's impressive scale and discover cutting-edge trends in interior design within its walls, and outside enjoy the Riverwalk adjacent to the Mart.
Navy Pier
Experience the excitement and charm of Navy Pier, a historic landmark offering a vibrant mix of entertainment, dining, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Take a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel, catch a performance at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, or simply stroll along the pier, enjoying the lively atmosphere and stunning skyline. With its diverse attractions and family-friendly ambiance, Navy Pier promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
Know Before You Go
This architecture river tour includes a guided cruise of the Chicago River on a boat with indoor seating (air conditioning, seats, & windows) and outdoor seating. There are restrooms on board. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase but are not included. Gratuities are not included. Discounted parking is available nearby, but the parking fee is not included. Meetup location will be provided after booking.
Hot Tip
Customers suggest arriving early to get the best seats, especially if you want to sit outside. Bringing a light jacket is a good idea, as it can get breezy on the river, even on warm days. Also, listen carefully to the guide, as they share lots of fun facts!
Review Summary
Reviews of the Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour consistently praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides who provide rich historical and architectural insights, making it an educational experience for all ages. Passengers often highlight the excellent vantage points of iconic landmarks and the comprehensive navigation of all three river branches. Positive remarks also note the convenient meeting location and affordable parking. Some negative points include the first-come, first-served seating layout which can be challenging for larger groups, and the lack of wheelchair accessibility on the boat. Overall, travelers appreciate the informative narration and the unique perspective of Chicago’s skyline from the river.
Frequently Asked Questions
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