Chicago River: 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Cruise

Chicago’s iconic skyline is a marvel of architectural prowess, and there’s no better way to experience it than on a guided cruise along the city’s renowned river. This 1.5-hour tour promises an engaging and educational journey through the heart of the Windy City, showcasing its evolution from the early 20th century to the present day. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable seating, and a full-service bar, guests are treated to an exceptional opportunity to truly appreciate the stunning beauty and rich history that define Chicago’s urban landscape. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, this cruise offers a unique perspective that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Chicago.

Key Points

• A 1.5-hour guided tour highlighting Chicago’s architectural evolution since 1935, showcasing landmarks like Marina City and Willis Tower.
• Offers open-air deck or climate-controlled seating to enhance the experience, with a full-service bar and restroom facilities on board.
• Exceptional customer ratings of 4.8/5 based on over 5,000 reviews, praised for knowledgeable guides and value for money.
• Accommodates children under 3 for free, with wheelchair accessibility and staff trained to assist guests with special needs.
• Requires security checks and prohibits certain items, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all passengers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

The Chicago River Architecture Cruise offers a captivating 1.5-hour guided tour, providing visitors with an up-close look at the city’s renowned architectural landmarks.

Priced from $33.29 per person, the cruise explores Chicago’s architectural evolution since 1935, with expert guides sharing insights into iconic structures like the Marina City, Merchandise Mart, and Willis Tower.

Guests can choose between an open-air deck or climate-controlled seating, ensuring a comfortable experience.

The tour also includes a full-service cash bar and the flexibility to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from over 5,000 reviews, this cruise is a must-do for architecture enthusiasts visiting Chicago.

Experience and Itinerary

The Chicago River Architecture Cruise‘s itinerary takes passengers on a captivating journey through the city’s architectural landscape.

Starting at the Brainlab Training Center, the tour showcases iconic landmarks like Marina City, Merchandise Mart, and the Willis Tower.

Visitors will also admire the Chicago Board of Trade Building, Tribune Tower, and Aon Center, learning about the city’s architectural evolution since 1935.

The experience offers an open-air deck or climate-controlled seating, allowing guests to explore Chicago’s rich history in comfort.

Knowledgeable guides provide insights, ensuring passengers leave with a deeper appreciation for the city’s architectural wonders.

Onboard Services and Amenities

Passengers aboard the Chicago River Architecture Cruise can indulge in a full-service cash bar offering locally sourced food and drinks.

Restrooms with diaper changing tables ensure a comfortable experience for all. Passengers are welcome to bring their own non-alcoholic beverages and food.

The seating on the open-air deck is first-come, first-serve, providing panoramic views of the city’s iconic architecture.

For safety, all bags are subject to search, and pets (except assistance dogs), weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited to ensure a pleasant journey.

With these amenities and services, the cruise offers a well-rounded experience for visitors to explore Chicago’s architectural marvels.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Customers can reserve their spots on the Chicago River Architecture Cruise with a "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option. Tickets for the 1.5-hour guided tour start at $33.29 per person.

The tour operates in English and has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This ensures customers can book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

The cruise offers an immersive experience, with expert guides providing insights into Chicago’s architectural evolution since 1935 along the open-air or climate-controlled decks.

With high customer ratings and a range of convenient amenities, the Chicago River Architecture Cruise provides an enriching way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Reviews and Ratings

How impressive are the customer reviews and ratings for the Chicago River Architecture Cruise?

With an outstanding 4.8/5 rating based on over 5,000 reviews, it’s clear customers are thoroughly enjoying this experience. Guests rave about the knowledgeable and entertaining guides, praising the transportation and overall value.

One reviewer called it "the best way to see and learn about Chicago," highlighting the cruise’s ability to bring the city’s architectural history to life.

The high marks across the board – from the service to the cruise itself – demonstrate this is a tour that consistently exceeds expectations and delivers an exceptional experience.

Age Restrictions and Accessibility

Children under 3 years of age are admitted free on the Chicago River Architecture Cruise. The vessels are equipped with restrooms and climate control to ensure a comfortable experience for all passengers.

The tour also caters to accessibility needs, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. Some key accessibility features include:

• Wheelchair-friendly design and boarding assistance
• Designated seating areas for guests with limited mobility
• Audio guides and visual aids for guests with hearing or visual impairments
• Staff trained to provide personalized assistance to passengers with special needs

Refreshments are available onboard, allowing guests to enjoy the tour while staying hydrated and nourished.

Safety Measures and Restrictions

For the safety and comfort of all passengers, several restrictions and security measures are in place for the Chicago River Architecture Cruise.

All bags are subject to search upon entry, ensuring a smooth and secure experience.

To maintain a pleasant environment, the cruise prohibits pets (except service animals), weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, and drugs.

The vessel is equipped with restrooms and climate control, providing a comfortable journey.

The staff is attentive and ready to assist if any issues arise, prioritizing the well-being of everyone on board.

These measures contribute to a safe and enjoyable architectural exploration of the Chicago River.

Starting Location and Check-in

The Chicago River Architecture Cruise departs from the Brainlab Training Center located at 400 N Michigan Avenue, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Wrigley Building.

This convenient check-in location offers:

• Easy access to public transportation and parking
• A comfortable waiting area to gather before the tour
• Friendly staff to assist with any questions or concerns
• Proximity to other popular attractions in the area

Guests are advised to arrive at the check-in location at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to ensure a seamless start to their architectural adventure on the Chicago River.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cruise Affected by Weather Conditions?

The tour is weather-dependent, but it offers alternative climate-controlled seating and an open-air deck, ensuring a comfortable experience regardless of the conditions. Passengers can enjoy the views and architecture with access to refreshments on board.

Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages?

Passengers are not allowed to bring their own alcoholic beverages on the cruise. The tour provides a full-service cash bar with locally sourced food and drinks, and any outside alcohol is prohibited for safety and liability reasons.

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed During the Cruise?

Passengers are allowed to take photos and videos during the cruise. However, the use of tripods, selfie sticks, or any equipment that may obstruct other passengers’ views is prohibited to ensure everyone enjoys the tour.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

There is no mention of an option to upgrade to a private tour for this Chicago architecture cruise. The standard guided group tour appears to be the only offering provided by the tour company.

Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Cruise?

Yes, visitors can purchase tickets on the day of the cruise, subject to availability. It’s recommended to book in advance to guarantee a spot, as the tours are popular and can sell out, especially during peak seasons.

Recap

The Chicago River architecture cruise is an exceptional way to experience the city’s stunning skyline and rich architectural history. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable seating, and a full-service bar, this 1.5-hour tour provides an engaging and educational journey through the evolution of Chicago’s iconic landmarks. Rated 4.8/5 by over 5,000 reviews, it’s a must-do activity for anyone visiting the Windy City.

You can check if your dates are available here: