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Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

star-4.5378 Reviews
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Badge of Excellence
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Chicago, United States
Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
(36)
See More (36)
Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
360 panoramic views of Chicago and Lake Michigan.
360 panoramic views of Chicago and Lake Michigan.
360 panoramic views of Chicago and Lake Michigan.
See More (36)
36

From $40.00

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Free cancellation
Up to 24 hours in advance. Learn more
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Safety measures
icon1 hour 30 minutes  (Approx.)
Mobile ticket
iconOffered in: English and 2 more

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Overview

Step aboard a boat for a comprehensive cruise that details the history of Chicago's architecture. Enjoy views of the Chicago skyline accompanied by architecture-focused commentary that points out each of the landmark buildings. As you cruise through Lake Michigan, snap photos of you and your party against the stretch of Chicago's 26-mile shoreline.
  • Comprehensive architectural tour
  • Live commentary on Chicago's architectural gems
  • Travel by boat along the Lake Michigan shoreline
  • Buy tickets in advance for this must-do Chicago activity
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From $40.00

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Departure Point

400 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

Return Details

Returns to original departure point
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Weapons prohibited by US Coast Guard
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
  • Outside alcohol is prohibited
  • All bags are subject to search
  • Increased sanitation and hand sanitizer stations
  • Arrive 15-30 Minutes prior to your departure time
  • Most travelers can participate
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 100 travelers
  • OPERATED BY Wendella Boats

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Learn more about cancellations.

The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What is the policy on face masks and attendee health during Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:
The policies on face masks and attendee health are:

  • Face masks required for travelers in public areas
  • Face masks required for guides in public areas
See all safety measures taken by Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour.
Q:
What is the policy on sanitization during Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:
The policies on sanitization are:

  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
See all safety measures taken by Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour.
Q:
What is the social distancing policy during Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:
The policy on social distancing is:

  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
See all safety measures taken by Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour.
Q:
What measures are being taken to ensure staff health & safety during Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:
The policy on staff health & safety is:

  • Regular temperature checks for staff
See all safety measures taken by Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour.
Q:
What is the maximum group size during Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:
This activity will have a maximum of 100 travelers.

See all safety measures taken by Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour.
Q:
Where do we meet for the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:
We are located at 400 N Michigan Avenue at the historic Wrigley Building. Wendella has four dock locations that extend west from the Michigan Avenue (DuSable) Bridge to Wabash Avenue.
Apr 2021
Q:
Is there parking available for the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:
There are two parking garages near the departure point: AMA Plaza parking at 401 N. State Street and InterPark Public Parking at 430 N. Rush St. (Parking fees apply at both locations.)
Apr 2021
Q:
Is the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour handicap accessible?
A:
We operate 3 boats with wheelchair lifts between decks. All our boats can accommodate wheelchairs & have toilets that are ADA compliant. For guests who are deaf or hard of hearing, a written script of the narration is available at the ticket office.
Apr 2021
Q:
Can I bring my service animal with me on the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:
A service animal is a dog that is trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. Pets and dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not allowed.
Apr 2021
Q:
Are there restrooms available on board the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:
Yes. Restrooms are located on the lower deck of each vessel; changing tables are also available in each restroom.
Apr 2021
Q:
How early should I arrive for the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:
Boarding begins 15-30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
Apr 2021
Q:
Does the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour operate in bad weather?
A:
Our cruises depart rain or shine. Our vessels include sheltered areas and climate-controlled lounges. Ponchos are available for purchase onboard. However, in cases of severe weather where the cruise must be canceled, all guests will be refunded.
Apr 2021
Q:
Is the boat climate controlled during the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:
Most of our vessels feature an enclosed climate-controlled lounge on the lower deck with speakers to hear the tour guide’s narration. If you have a concern about whether your vessel has an interior lounge, please call the phone number on your ticket.
Apr 2021
Q:
Is food/drink available during the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:
A full-service bar is available onboard. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as an assortment of snacks, are available for purchase. Bar sales are credit cards only. No cash purchases.
Apr 2021
Q:
Can I store my luggage during the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:
There is no storage area on our dock, but guests may bring their luggage aboard keeping in mind it is subject to inspection.
Apr 2021

Traveler Photos

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Traveler Tips

  • "This is an absolute must if you are coming to Chicago for the first time OR if you have been to Chicago many times but have never seen the beautiful cityscape from the lake." See review
  • "To see the city from the lake and river is a must.. Too much to miss out if you are not doing both." See review

Reviews

4.5
star-4.5
378 Reviews
5 stars
317
4 stars
37
3 stars
6
2 stars
6
1 star
12

Reviews by Viator travelers

Showing 1-10 of 378 reviews
star-5
Engaging and Interesting
David_M
, Aug 2021
Our guide was absolutely superb! Knowledgeable and personable, with a voice that is easy to listen to. The Architectural History of Chicago gives one more lens through which to better understand the city's growth and development.
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star-5
Knowledgeable guide!
Constance_C
, Aug 2021
It was fabulous! Our guide Max was so knowledgeable, entertaining and charismatic! Learned a lot about the architecture of Chicago- loved Max’s enthusiasm for the city.
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star-5
Excellent
Shirly_H
, Aug 2021
The tour guy was awesome. He knows exactly what his talking about the architecture and the captain was great.
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star-5
Family
Consuelo_V
, Aug 2021
Loved it!!!!!! my husband loved it!!!!! my daughter loved it!!!!!! my 12 year old not so much but it was amazing.
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star-5
Wonderful time!
Addie_B
, Jul 2021
Lake was so beautiful. Info was incredible! Hostess was very informative! Amazing views! Loved it all so much
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star-5
Very pleasant and relaxing
Dolores_B
, Jul 2021
I truly enjoyed the history and the ride. The buildings were amazing the water was refreshing. I really enjoyed it!!!
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star-5
Great experience
THOMAS_w
, Jul 2021
Viator was very informative and easy way to obtain your tickets. The guide was knowledgeable and personable. I highly recommend.
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star-5
Super day with family!!
MAUREEN_S
, Jul 2021
Great. Great tour guide. I will definitely recommend it. It was hot and humid but that’s summer in Chicago,….there was a refreshing breeze on Lake Michigan, just perfect. Loved the Music soundtrack!!
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star-5
A beautiful and informative time!
Annette_M
, Jul 2021
Highly recommend the lake and river tour. Fist time going through a lock! A beautiful and informative time.
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star-5
Beautiful sky line; no waves
Carrie
, Jul 2021
I was worried the Lake Michigan water would be choppy. However, our captain kept us within the breakwall so there were no waves; just a beautiful sky line. We also went through a “locks” system between the river and lake that I never knew existed! Wonderful experience.
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HelpfulHelpful1 traveler found this review helpful

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