Why choose this tour ?

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!



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What makes Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour a unique experience ?

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.

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

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.

The largest commercial building in the world.

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

Michigan Avenue is home of the Chicago Water Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the shopping on the Magnificent Mile.

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

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

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

Tour Description & Additional Info:

  • 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


Options To Choose for Your Trip:

  • Lake and River Tour
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Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour Inclusions:

Included with Your Ticket

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Outdoor and Indoor climate-controlled seating option
  • Local Expert Guide

Not Included

  • Alcoholic drinks, non-alcoholic drinks, and snacks available for purchase on board
  • Storage

Trending Nearby Tours Likely To Sell Out

Special Instructions:

    Parking is located at 430 N Rush St. Validate your parking at the Wendella ticket office which gives you 12 hours of parking for $12. The closest address to most docks is 400 N Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60611 (near the Wrigley Building). From there you can check in with a dock employee who can direct you to your boarding area. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the departure time to be directed to your dock. Your ticket will be scanned from your phone, so you do not need to exchange anything at the window. All guests need a ticket to board, including children and infants. Minimum drinking age is 21 years. Outside alcohol prohibited. Weapons of any kind prohibited. You may bring luggage or bags on board but they are subject to search. Tours are rarely canceled due to weather and will only be canceled if conditions are unsafe (tornado warnings, extreme ice or subzero temps, etc)

    Please be advised..

  • This Tour is Provided by Wendella Tours & Cruises.
  • Tour Timezone & Starts at America/Chicago.
  • Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
  • This Tour is Rated 4.5 Stars based on 2012 valid reviews on VIATOR.
  • Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
  • Maximum 15 Travelers is accepted for booking.