Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
Overview
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!
What's Included
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Outdoor and Indoor climate-controlled seating option
- Restroom on board
- Local Expert Guide
- Alcoholic drinks, non-alcoholic drinks, and snacks available for purchase on board
- Storage
Meeting Location
400 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Book Online
Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free
Chicago River
45 minutes Admission Ticket Free
Lake Michigan
45 minutes Admission Ticket Free
Centennial Fountain And Water Arc (pass by)
Marina City (pass by)
Michigan Avenue Bridge (pass by)
Wrigley Building (pass by)
Chicago Riverwalk (pass by)
The Lyric Opera House (pass by)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- 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
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 300 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions (9)
Q: Will I get seasick on Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
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Activity code: C-76126P2
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.75 out of 5 stars based on 2,424 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (9)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.
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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).
- All taxes, fees and handling charges.
- Outdoor and Indoor climate-controlled seating option.
- Restroom on board.
- Local Expert Guide.
- Alcoholic drinks, non-alcoholic drinks, and snacks available for purchase on board.
- Storage.
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. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
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 Lake and River Architecture Tour is as follows:
- Service animals allowed
- 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 Lake and River Architecture Tour 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
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Outdoor and Indoor climate-controlled seating option
- Restroom on board
- Local Expert Guide
- Alcoholic drinks, non-alcoholic drinks, and snacks available for purchase on board
- Storage
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- 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
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 300 travelers
