Chicago Architecture River Cruise
Overview
Experience the stunning beauty of Chicago on a captivating cruise along the historic Chicago River. This architectural tour takes you down the main branch of the river, up the north branch to the East Bank Club, and then south past the iconic Willis Tower (Sears Tower) to the historic Old Post Office Building.
Marvel at the magnificent city skyline as you pass by over 40 notable buildings, including:
John Hancock Center: An iconic skyscraper that defines the Chicago skyline.
Wrigley Building: Known for its distinctive white facade and clock tower.
As you sail, an expert architecture guide will provide fascinating insights into the distinctive designs and history of these architectural marvels. Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time, this tour offers a unique perspective on one of the world's most beautiful cities.
Sit back, relax, and let the architectural wonders of Chicago unfold before your eyes.
What's Included
- Pet-friendly
- Restroom on board
- Live expert commentary on board
- Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River
- Drinks (available for purchase)
- WiFi on board
Meeting Location
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Book Online
Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free
Navy Pier (pass by)
Tribune Tower (pass by)
John Hancock Center (pass by)
Marina City (pass by)
Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower (pass by)
Aqua Tower (pass by)
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- All boats have full restrooms and a full bar.
- Some boats are single deck vessels, the type of vessel you are placed on cannot be guaranteed.
- Wheelchairs or other walking assistance equipment are not provided.
- Cruises are dog-friendly.
- Tours can be rescheduled through [BRAND] 24 hours prior to the departure dates.
- Wheelchair accessible from Navy Pier dock only.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 250 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions (9)
Q: Will I get seasick on Chicago Architecture River Cruise?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-5580ARC
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.88 out of 5 stars based on 16,667 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
Similar Tours & Activities
This experience is unique for its unmatched flexibility and strong emphasis on group interaction. It’s not bound to a fixed schedule or route, allowing groups...
$20
Often imitated but never matched, this 3 hour ghost bus tour with stops remains the "Best of Chicago" since its founding 23 years ago by...
$59
Discover the vibrant essence of Chicago with a self-guided tour through the Loop, the city’s historic downtown. This journey unveils a blend of striking skyscrapers...
$10
Custom Chicago Walking Tours
We create custom walking tours for groups of all sizes and interests, blending delicious food experiences with rich historical storytelling. From downtown explorations for high...
$75
This experience is unique for its unmatched flexibility and strong emphasis on group interaction. It’s not bound to a fixed schedule or route, allowing groups...
$20
Often imitated but never matched, this 3 hour ghost bus tour with stops remains the "Best of Chicago" since its founding 23 years ago by...
$59
Discover the vibrant essence of Chicago with a self-guided tour through the Loop, the city’s historic downtown. This journey unveils a blend of striking skyscrapers...
$10
We create custom walking tours for groups of all sizes and interests, blending delicious food experiences with rich historical storytelling. From downtown explorations for high...
$75
Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought
Chicago River 90 Minute Architecture Tour
Be inspired by the captivating, visual art that is Chicago’s legendary architecture, and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing, dynamic legacy for all to...
$45
Chicago Lake and River Architecture 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...
$45
Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich...
$28
Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour
Escape into Chicago's underworld on a crime and mob tour with stops on-and-off the luxury, climate-controlled bus. Explore historic crime scenes with great photo opportunities....
$49
Be inspired by the captivating, visual art that is Chicago’s legendary architecture, and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing, dynamic legacy for all to...
$45
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...
$45
Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich...
$28
Escape into Chicago's underworld on a crime and mob tour with stops on-and-off the luxury, climate-controlled bus. Explore historic crime scenes with great photo opportunities....
$49
Frequently Asked Questions (9)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.
Filter by:
If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CST).
- Pet-friendly.
- Restroom on board.
- Live expert commentary on board.
- Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River.
- Drinks (available for purchase).
- WiFi on board.
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Chicago Architecture River Cruise is as follows:
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Chicago Architecture River Cruise will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.
Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.
If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.
Oct 2026What's Included
- Pet-friendly
- Restroom on board
- Live expert commentary on board
- Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River
- Drinks (available for purchase)
- WiFi on board
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- All boats have full restrooms and a full bar.
- Some boats are single deck vessels, the type of vessel you are placed on cannot be guaranteed.
- Wheelchairs or other walking assistance equipment are not provided.
- Cruises are dog-friendly.
- Tours can be rescheduled through Viator 24 hours prior to the departure dates.
- Wheelchair accessible from Navy Pier dock only.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 250 travelers
