Chicago: Small Group Walking Tour With Skydeck and Boat

Discover the vibrant heart of Chicago on this small group walking tour that offers an unparalleled experience. From the iconic Skydeck at Willis Tower to the architectural wonders of Millennium Park, this 2.5-hour adventure showcases the city’s renowned landmarks. Capping off the tour, a 75-minute Shoreline Architecture Cruise allows you to explore over 40 iconic buildings along the Chicago River, providing an unforgettable perspective of the city’s skyline. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this tour promises to unveil the rich history and breathtaking beauty that make Chicago a truly exceptional destination.

Key Points

• A 2.5-hour small group walking tour in Chicago that combines sightseeing, architecture, and a boat cruise along the Chicago River.
• Includes a visit to the Skydeck of the Willis Tower, offering panoramic views of the city, and a tour of iconic landmarks like the Rookery Building.
• Concludes with a 75-minute Shoreline Architecture Cruise that highlights over 40 architectural landmarks along the Chicago River.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows for full refunds up to 24 hours in advance, and a "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option is available.
• Caters to a maximum of 10 participants for an intimate and personalized experience exploring Chicago’s history, skyline, and architectural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Chicago Small Group Walking Tour with Skydeck and Boat offers an immersive experience for visitors, providing a comprehensive exploration of the city’s architectural wonders and iconic landmarks.

Priced at $189 per person, the 2.5-hour tour is limited to just 10 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy and the reserve now, pay later option.

The tour includes visits to the Skydeck Chicago, Millennium Park, and Navy Pier, with optional stops at several notable buildings like the Rookery, Palmer House, and Sullivan Center.

This well-rounded itinerary offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, architecture, and city exploration.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the 222 S Riverside Plaza, near the iconic Willis Tower Skydeck.

After an hour at the Skydeck, visitors explore Millennium Park for 45 minutes, including a 15-minute photo stop at Cloud Gate.

Next, they take a 15-minute walk to Navy Pier. Along the way, the guide points out architectural landmarks like the Rookery Building, Marquette Building, Palmer House, Reliance Building, Sullivan Center, and DuSable Bridge.

The tour also includes a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk.

The 2.5-hour walking experience culminates in a 75-minute Shoreline Architecture Cruise, providing a narrated tour of over 40 landmarks and architectural gems.

Skydeck Experience

Visitors ascend to the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, the tallest building in the western hemisphere, for panoramic views that stretch across 50 miles, covering four states.

From the Skydeck, they’ll be treated to a breathtaking perspective of the city’s iconic skyline, as well as glimpses of Lake Michigan and the surrounding landscapes.

The Skydeck experience provides an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the scale and grandeur of Chicago’s architectural marvels.

With floor-to-ceiling windows, guests can enjoy a 360-degree panorama, capturing the essence of the city’s vibrant energy and dynamic growth.

This visual feast is a highlight of the walking tour, offering participants a unique vantage point to discover the city’s wonders.

Walking Tour Details

Exploring Chicago’s architectural landmarks is a highlight of the walking tour. Visitors can marvel at the Rookery Building, a stunning example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic design.

The tour also showcases the luxurious Palmer House hotel and the ornate ironwork of the Sullivan Center. Plus, the Reliance Building, a pioneering modern skyscraper, is included.

The walking portion of the tour concludes with a leisurely stroll through Millennium Park, where guests can admire the gardens and attractions.

The tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Chicago’s architectural heritage, offering insights into the city’s rich history and design evolution.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Boat Cruise Experience

After the walking tour, participants can embark on a 75-minute Shoreline Architecture Cruise. This narrated tour highlights over 40 landmarks and architectural gems along the Chicago River. Guests will learn about the history and design of structures, ranging from classical to contemporary. The cruise concludes at Navy Pier, providing a fitting ending to the day’s exploration.

Cruise Highlights
Duration	75 minutes
Narration	Highlights 40+ landmarks
Architecture Styles	Classical to contemporary
Recap	Navy Pier

Important Information

Participants should arrive 10 minutes early at the meeting point in front of the Fifth Third Center.

The tour operates rain or shine, so guests are advised to dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. Participants should also bring water, as the exact tour length may vary based on walking speeds.

The tour covers a range of architectural landmarks, from the iconic Rookery Building to the modern Reliance Building. Guests can expect to spend approximately 2.5 hours exploring Chicago’s rich history and stunning skyline.

Free Cancellation and Refund

The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing guests to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This provides visitors with the convenience and peace of mind to plan their trip without worrying about non-refundable charges.

Guests can take advantage of the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, which enables them to secure their spot on the tour without an upfront payment.

This flexible approach caters to the needs of modern travelers, who appreciate the ability to adjust their plans as needed.

The tour’s cancellation and refund policy is a testament to the organizer’s commitment to providing an exceptional customer experience.

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option available
• Full refund guaranteed for timely cancellations

Reserve Now and Pay Later

Visitors can take advantage of the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, which allows them to secure their spot on the tour without an upfront payment.

This flexible payment method is perfect for those who want to book their tour in advance but don’t need to pay until closer to the date.

Once the reservation is made, customers can simply pay the full amount up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

This convenient option gives travelers the peace of mind of locking in their tour while having the flexibility to pay later, making it easier to plan and budget for their Chicago adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention discounts for children or seniors. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator directly, as they may offer special pricing or concessions for these groups.

Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Focus on Specific Sites?

The tour itinerary can be modified to focus on specific sites, but it’s best to discuss any changes with the tour operator beforehand. They can advise on what’s possible and ensure the tour meets the customer’s needs.

Is Photography Allowed Throughout the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed throughout the tour. Participants can capture the Skydeck’s panoramic views, Millennium Park’s landmarks, and the architecture along the Riverwalk during the boat cruise. However, certain indoor locations may have restrictions on photography.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Challenges?

The tour offers good accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. Wheelchair-accessible transportation can be arranged, and the Skydeck and boat cruise portions are wheelchair-friendly. However, the walking portions may pose challenges for those with limited mobility.

Can I Purchase Additional Food or Drink During the Tour?

Yes, participants can purchase additional food and drink during the tour. There are opportunities to stop for snacks or meals at various points along the walking route and during the boat cruise portion.

Recap

This small group walking tour of Chicago offers an unparalleled urban experience. Visitors can soak in the city’s iconic landmarks from the Skydeck’s panoramic views, explore Millennium Park and architectural gems on foot, and cap off the adventure with a scenic boat cruise along the Chicago River. It’s an immersive way to discover the vibrant heart of the Windy City.

You can check if your dates are available here: