chicago lake and river architecture tour

Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours

Chicago River Tours | Fireworks Tours | Jazz/Cocktail Tours

River Boat Tours

Book your tour now, book by phone: (708) 488-6343, about the tours, chicago river boat architecture tours .

Welcome to Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours!  We’re proud to present you with an in-depth, expert architectural-based river boat tour that delves into one of the most remarkable American cities today. Known for unique, daring, and historical architectural pursuits, it’s hard to cover all of the design and building treasures that make up the Windy City today. If you’re ready to learning more about the designs, people, and innovations behind these creations, throw on your captains hat and get ready to cruise along the Chicago River and see what architects from around the world travel to see in Chicago.

About The Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours

Chicago is known around the world for its architectural feats, both inside and outside of the buildings. From the 100-year-old Art Deco, Neo-Classical, and Gothic Towers, to some of the tallest modern-day skyscrapers, Chicago is where old meets futuristic architectural endeavors. It has something for everyone in a way that no other city replicates today.

Why Tour Chicago’s Architecture with Us?

We are born-and-raised Chicagoans ourselves, passionate about the community that we know and love. That passion and desire spills into all of our tours, drawing on personal experiences for curating a tour that just can’t be duplicated by a book or a movie. We want you to experience everything firsthand. Why tour with us?

  • Expertise: All of our tour guides are either architects, architecture students, or architecture historians, making for an in-depth and personally rooted kind of touring experience that covers all of the discreet details.
  • Variety: We offer a variety of uniquely different tours that cover everyone’s individual taste. We offer the Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour that takes you down the famous Chicago River; there are several different options such as Architecture, History, Cocktail Cruises and Firework Viewing Tours
  • Flexibility : We want you to enjoy your Chicago River Boat touring experience, which is why we’re happy to talk with you and learn more about how our tours can accommodate you, your party, or your corporate outing. Our tours run daily, with availability always posted on our website here.

Our Tours  

  • Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour : When in Chicago, cruising down the Chicago River is  a must. Except with us, you’ll be taking in the architecture of the buildings that line the beautiful river. We provide detailed explanations of the construction and history of over 50 significant buildings, wrapping up at the end of the river.
  • Chicago River Boat Cocktail Tour : Join us for this great Architecture Tour while sipping craft cocktails, beer or wine available for purchase at our bar on board!
  • Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruise :  Fireworks, one of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China were invented in the 12th century. Chicago approved City-Wide Use of Fireworks on the 4th of July 1893,. Mayor of Chicago Patrick Eugene Prendergast issued a proclamation approving the use of fireworks to celebrate the World’s Colombian Exposition and to celebrate the nation’s 117th Independence Day. This fascination with fireworks, noise, and color continues today. The City of Chicago offers a fireworks show at Navy Pier on Saturday nights at 10:15 p.m. The Fireworks Cruise sails on both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan each Saturday at 8:30 pm.

Our Commitment to Your Touring Experience

We believe that tours should be entertaining, enlightening, informational, and perfectly organized, every single time. A tour shouldn’t feel laborious in any way; you should feel an effortless inclination to learn more about what we present at your fingertips. With our Chicago architectural tours, that’s exactly what we strive to provide, basing each tour from the perspective of an expert with the real-life example in the background.

If you’re thinking about booking a tour with us, know that our commitment to flexibility and accessible makes our Chicago Architecture Tours easy and convenient:

  • 3 pm *Not Available Friday thru Sunday Summer Months*
  • 6:30 pm (Jazz Band, Cocktail w/bar) *Sunday Only*
  • 8 pm (Wednesdays)
  • 8:30 pm (Saturdays)
  • Seniors $48
  • Youths $30 (7-12 years old)
  • Children 6 and under Free

BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY

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Chicago river boat cocktail tour.

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Join us in the evening to sip cocktails while cruising the historic Chicago River! Get the same tour just with a cocktail in your hand! Premium bar on board with craft cocktails, wine and beer available for purchase. Drinks may be purchased individually with a credit card on the boat. Tour Information Pricing Adults $49… Continue reading Chicago River Boat Cocktail Tour

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Chicago river boat architectural tour.

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Forming a length of 156 miles when combined, the Chicago River is a system of rivers and canals the characterize the infamous skyline of Chicago today. The river, running through the city, including the city center Chicago Loop, is evident of man made design and infrastructure when completed craftily. In 1887, the river was reversed… Continue reading Chicago River Boat Architectural Tour

Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruises (w/ Architecture Tour)

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Enjoy your favorite drink while gazing Chicago’s magnificent architecture and finish your cruise with fabulous light show, at Navy Pier. Fireworks, one of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China were invented in the 12th century. Chicago approved City-Wide Use of Fireworks on the 4th of July 1893,. Mayor of Chicago Patrick Eugene Prendergast issued… Continue reading Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruises (w/ Architecture Tour)

Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

Tickets for Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour in Chicago 🎫 Ticket for 1 person to the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour 👉 A guide (oral or written) is available in English or Chinese - select when making your purchase Highlights 😮 A unique excursion that tells the story of more than 200 years of fascinating social, cultural and political history 🏙️ Get an up-close perspective of Chicago's internationally-known architecture as seen from the Chicago River 🚢 Venture through the Chicago Lock onto the calm, cool waters of Lake Michigan for expansive views of Chicago's extraordinary 26-mile skyline General Info 📅 Date: various dates (select when you purchase) 🕒 Time: various tour times (select when you purchase). All groups should arrive 30 minutes prior to the tour time. Boarding for each tour will begin 15-30 minutes before the tour time ⏳ Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes 📍 Location: starts at Wendella Tours & Cruises ♿ Accessibility: the experience is wheelchair & stroller accessible ❓ Please note: social distancing and other safety measures will be in place throughout the experience ❓ For this event, all sales are final and tickets can’t be refunded, changed or modified. For more information, please refer to our T&Cs

Description A Chicago family 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 onto 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! Get your tickets for Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour in Chicago!

User reviews

  • Ana C. Jul 2021 had a fun time and the tour guide knows his stuff
  • Sabrina N. Aug 2022 The crew is friendly and the sights are beautiful!
  • Edith G. Sep 2023 Jack is super friendly, talented, has great knowledge about everything haha. It was a family friendly environment.
  • Tope S. Sep 2021 Fantastic tour guide
  • Joye C. Sep 2021 Great experience!
  • Joshua S. Jun 2021 Great experience!
  • Devorlyn F. May 2021 Awesome!!!
  • Patrick M. Jun 2021 Took the rents when they visited it was great.
  • Dorina S. Aug 2021 Great tour!
  • Shareef C. Jun 2022 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! I brought my sister out from Alabama and took her on a tour! Joe was our EmC, he was absolutely awesome, very entertaining and very knowledgeable about the city! My sister Loved the tour and we will certainly bring others as well!

Getting there

Wendella Tours & Cruises

400 N Michigan Ave Suite C100, Chicago, IL , United States, 60611

Don't miss out!

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Select date and session

No booking fees

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City Cruises – Seadog River and Lake Architecture Tour

seadog river and lake architecture tour 1

Enjoy Chicago’s iconic skyline with an exciting architecture cruise on the Chicago River.

Departing from Navy Pier, this 75-minute narrated cruise is the best way to get up-close views of Chicago’s unique architecture and famous landmarks. Seadog offers fun for the whole family (and the dog, too!) with live narration along the city’s shore.

Enjoy the speed of Seadog afterward during a short speedboat ride on the lake!

You’ll Enjoy:

  • 75-minute cruise
  • The only tour to take you from the lakefront, through the locks, and along the Chicago River all the way to the famous Willis Tower!
  • The best views of Chicago’s famous buildings and unique architecture with entertaining narrations.
  • This ride also includes a short speedboat ride portion on the lake!
  • Seadog is BYOB – bring your own drinks to enjoy on the water (no glass containers)

Disclaimer:   This ride is not recommended for guests with conditions to the neck or back or that may be pregnant. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

*Cruising with a child under 2? Please add a $0.00 infant ticket to your cart. Infants cruise free, but are required to have a ticket so we can get an accurate head count.

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Tour Group Aboard Seadog Cruises Boat From Navy Pier

+1 (312) 815 3214

600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

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Chicago River Architecture Tour

Chicago's Original Architecture Tour®

Experience the city’s legendary architecture from the best seat in the house—the river. Our experienced tour guides detail the 130 year long history behind the skyline, while our bartenders and staff keep you comfortable and entertained. This comprehensive tour navigates through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River. It’s the one thing everyone tells you to do in Chicago, done right.

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Schedule & Tickets

  • Adult: $44.00
  • Child (4-12): $20.00
  • Under 4: Free (ticket required)

TICKETS ARE NON REFUNDABLE BUT ARE TRANSFERABLE.

  • Parking & Directions
  • More Information
  • COVID-19 Safety
  • Boarding begins 15-30 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.
  • All bags are subject to inspection.
  • Prohibited Items: Outside Alcohol, Weapons of any kind (Firearms, Knives, etc.), Flammables, Explosives.

Your boat includes:

Drinks & Snacks

Full-service bar with wine, local beer, and craft cocktails, as well as an assortment of snacks, all for purchase. Pinkies up!

Expert Tour Guide

Never boring, always entertaining.

Accessibility

Everyone should be able to enjoy our tours. We make sure you can.

No need to hold it. We have changing tables for the little ones who don’t know what holding it is.

Climate-Controlled Lounge

Keeping you cool when it's warm and warm when it's cool (or freezing).

*Not all amenities are available on every vessel.

BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE NOW

chicago lake and river architecture tour

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Chicago Architecture Boat Tours | Architecture River & Lake Cruises | City Cruises™

How long are the architectural boat tours in chicago.

Architectural boat tours are 75-minutes of narration about the unique architecture and famous landmarks in Chicago.

Can you drink on the Chicago architecture tour?

Yes, you can drink on the Chicago architecture tour. You’re able to bring your own beverages on board (no glass containers). Drinks and snacks are also available online or in-person from our concessions partner, Harry Caray’s. You can also add drinks or food enhancements during the online checkout process or ask the ticket booth agent for assistance on the day of your cruise.

Why is Chicago so famous for architecture?

Chicago is famous for its architecture because it reflects the city’s history and multicultural heritage, featuring prominent buildings in a variety of styles. Chicago is home to one of the largest and most diverse collections of skyscrapers in the world. For example, Willis Tower and Merchandise Mart.

What is the best Chicago architecture cruise to take?

The Chicago Seadog River & Lake Architectural Tour is the best Chicago architecture cruise. It offers fun for the whole family (and the dog, too!) with live narrations along the city’s shore. After the architecture cruise, you can enjoy the speed of Seadog during a short speedboat ride on the lake!

What to wear on a Chicago architecture boat tour?

We suggest you wear casual attire on our Chicago architecture boat tour.

When is the best time to do an architecture cruise in Chicago?

The best time to do the Chicago Seadog River & Lake Architectural Tour is year-round, but May through October are the most popular because of the weather. We also offer a brunch architecture cruise year-round which is on our luxurious glass-enclosed vessel and has climate-controlled interior decks providing 270-degree views of the architecture, in any weather.

Where to park for the City Cruises Chicago architecture tour?

You can Park at Navy Pier or the surrounding area. You’ll be departing from Navy Pier | 600 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL. Here is a link to where you can park for the architecture tour.

What to bring on an architecture boat ride in Chicago?

Here is a list of things you can bring on your architecture tour, including alcohol, a smartphone, and the City Experiences app, which lets you listen to the tour in 44 different languages.

What are some of the most popular sights to see on a Chicago architecture tour?

Some of the most popular sights to see on a Chicago architecture tour are Willis Tower, Tribune Tower, and the Bucking Fountain. While also gaining insight into the city’s most famous landmarks from your guide.

What is included in a City Cruises Chicago architecture tour?

City Cruises Chicago architecture tours are the only tour to take you from the lakefront, through the locks, and alone the Chicago River all the way to the famous Willis Tower. This ride also includes a short speedboat ride portion on the Lake!

What are other architecture tours offered by City Cruises Chicago?

The other architecture tours offered by City Cruises Chicago are Premier Plus Architectural Brunch Cruises on the Chicago River, the Premier Plus Architectural Lunch Cruise on the Chicago River.

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chicago lake and river architecture tour

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Experience why we're the #1 rated boat cruise in Chicago! Tickets are on sale now for the 2024 season and departures begin March 17.

Buy Tickets

Voted as one of the Top 10 Boat Tours in North America by USA Today readers for 3 years in a row and Chicago Reader's Best Tour for over 10 years ! Looking for the ultimate Chicago architecture experience? Buy a combo ticket for the river cruise AND visit the Chicago Architecture Center—you'll save $9!

For more than 25 years, the CAC's expertly trained docent volunteers have led the CAC River Cruise, sharing fascinating stories behind more than 50 buildings along the Chicago River. Hear how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world's largest cities in less than 100 years. In just 90 minutes, you'll get the best overview of Chicago’s architecture and its history.

The CAC River Cruise is available in 4 languages: Continental French, Latin American Spanish, Japanese and Korean. To access these languages, please download the "Listen Everywhere" app in advance. Once you are on board the boat, the app will connect and allow you to listen in your selected language as the boat makes its way down the river.

*Continue your exploration with a visit to the CAC! Combo tickets include admission to the Center for just $5 (regular price $14). Admission is valid up to 7 days before or after your cruise.

Evening River Cruise

The city's most popular tour is now offered in the evening. Serene and bathed in softer light, the city's architecture takes on a whole new life in the setting sun. Wind-down from the work-week by enjoying a cocktail with friends and family and experience Chicago's skyline on our luxury boats.

All departures lATER THAN 5:00 PM

  • CAC Members please call 312.922.8687 or come to the CAC Box Office at 111 E. Wacker Drive to redeem your BOGO benefit. 
  • You can buy a CAC membership over the phone and redeem your BOGO annual benefit at the time of your membership purchase.
  • Each person must have a ticket, including infants and children.
  • All tours depart rain or shine.
  • Arrive 30 minutes prior to your cruise departure time. Allow extra time for traffic and parking in summer.
  • Cruise guests board 15 minutes before departure time.
  • GENERAL ADMISSION SEATING
  • A full-service bar and snack bar are available onboard.
  • Tickets start at $54.00 for daytime cruises, $59.00 for evening cruises. Upgrade your ticket for $5 to include Chicago Architecture Center admission. Your visit must occur within 7 days before or after your tour.  View the CAC's hours .
  • Tickets may not be refunded or exchanged if you miss your boat. Allow extra time.
  • Find more information, including available parking, in our FAQs

Interested in a tour for a group of 20 or more? Please contact our group sales team at [email protected] . Private rentals are available.

Directions to Chicago’s First Lady boat dock

See a map here  or enter 112 E. Wacker Drive into your GPS. Located at the northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, a blue awning marks the boat dock entrance stairs that lead down to the river. If you have limited mobility, see these directions  for an alternative way to reach the dock.

About our Boat Partner

We’re proud to partner with Chicago’s First Lady Cruises, operator of Chicago’s finest fleet of cruising vessels. Its boats hold up to 250 passengers and feature open-air upper decks, full-service bars, climate-controlled lower cabins and upscale marble and granite restrooms. Being onboard is sure to be an experience you'll never forget. 

Photos From This Tour

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Upcoming Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady Tours

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Highlights of this Tour

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Chicago Riverwalk

1 w. lower wacker drive.

Strolling along Chicago’s beautiful Riverwalk, it’s hard to imagine just how much things have changed…

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

Architect/firm.

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) was founded in 1936 by Louis Skidmore and Nathaniel Owings. Partner…

chicago lake and river architecture tour

trunnion bascule bridge

trunnion is a French word for "stump" or pivot point; bascule is a French word for "see-saw"; a trunnion…

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Tribune Tower

435 n. michigan ave..

In 1922, on the occasion of its 75th anniversary, the Chicago Tribune announced an international competition…

chicago lake and river architecture tour

London Guarantee Building

360 n. michigan ave..

Located where Fort Dearborn once stood, the London Guarantee & Accident Building is one of four structures…

chicago lake and river architecture tour

330 North Wabash / AMA Plaza (IBM Plaza)

330 n. wabash ave..

One of the last American projects designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this powerful Modernist structure…

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

It’s difficult to imagine what the skyline of Chicago might look like without architect Ludwig Mies van…

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Arts and Crafts

The Arts and Crafts movement originated in England in the mid-19th century as an antidote to the dehumanizing…

chicago lake and river architecture tour

150 North Riverside

150 n. riverside.

Gravity-defying 150 North Riverside has already taken its rightful place among Chicago’s architectural…

chicago lake and river architecture tour

a large vertical, concrete pier, cast in place and used in a foundation where the soil is unstable

chicago lake and river architecture tour

333 West Wacker

333 w. wacker dr..

When you’ve got it, you’ve got it—and 333 West Wacker has it.

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Apple Michigan Avenue

401 n. michigan ave..

Foster + Partners’ Apple Michigan Avenue store is an impressive, airy glass box with a curved-edge…

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Merchandise Mart

222 w. merchandise mart plaza.

Size has always mattered in the Midwest.

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Architecture Tour

TripAdvisor users rank the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady as the city's #1 boat tour.

There’s one sure recipe to make your business or social event even more memorable – just add water and Chicago’s First Lady!

Recalling the handsome elegance of 20th century luxury yachts, our vessels are sure to make an impression. Choose from seven perfectly sized ships for your private event.

Your wedding is the start of your lifelong journey together, so begin that journey in a truly memorable way - a wedding cruise down the Chicago River.

Evening River Cruise

Experience our renowned daytime CAC River Cruise in the glow of the setting sun. Take in the city’s magnificent architecture bathed in golden light as it begins its transition from day to night.

St. Patrick's Day Clover Cruise

Experience St. Patrick's Day Chicago-style and celebrate your green heart out with a festive cruise complete with food, drinks and plenty of fun.

chicago lake and river architecture tour

“The very best city tour I have been on in my life! We were in America for a month and this was our best morning.” - JurassicBill TripAdvisor, Dorset UK

- Latest Articles -

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Top Occasions to Celebrate on the Chicago River

The Chicago River, with its winding beauty amidst the city’s architectural wonders, offers a unique backdrop…

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Appreciating What Chicago's Unique Waterways Have to Offer

If you've always dreamed of creating a truly unforgettable wedding experience, consider sailing into…

chicago lake and river architecture tour

Cruise into Happily Ever After Aboard Chicago's First Lady

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"What an amazing experience, this tour brings all the beautiful architecture and history to life.” - Rachel M Yelp, Arizona, USA

NBC Chicago

7 things that might surprise you about the Chicago Architecture Boat Tour

T here are plenty of ways to take in the sights, sounds (and smells) of Chicago, but you don't necessarily have to be on land to do that.

And you don't have to be a tourist, either.

In fact, one of the most beloved ways — among locals and visitors alike — to experience city is by journeying across the Chicago River and Lake Michigan while a tour guide talks about buildings and regales you on the untold story of Mrs. O'Leary's cow.

In other words: a Chicago Architecture Boat Tour.

"As you're going up and down the Chicago River and on Lake Michigan, you're seeing the city’s evolving architecture, which is changing every year" said Andrew Sargis, director of sales and marketing for Wendella Tours and Cruises .

Wendella, billed as Chicago's "original" architecture tour, in 1935 gave its first architecture tour of the city from a wooden diesel yacht out on Navy Pier, Sargis said. Now, upwards of 20 architecture tours are offered daily, with more on the weekends. On average, Wendella tours see roughly 100,000 passengers each month over the summer, Sargis said.

And though the majority of guests on any given Wendella architecture tour are tourists, Sargis said, locals take them, too.

MORE: Even Chicagoans can't get enough of this tourist attraction: ‘It's about the only touristy thing I do'

"I was surprised when I first started, we get a lot of repeat locals," Bobby Scheffle, a Wendella tour guide told NBC Chicago. "And always there's a lot of local people that come on when they have guests visiting them in town. They like to show off the city this way."

But there's something else about the experience that makes it so very Chicago.

"I think it is really unique to experience the city from a boat on a river, because we think about other big cities in the United States -- there aren't many that have a river that go right through downtown," Scheffle said. "You feel like you're in the city, you hear the noise, and you see the buildings and all that."

Whether you're taking the ride for the first time or the 50th, bringing out-of-town guests out for a memorable activity or just itching to be a tourist in your own city, here are seven things to know about the Chicago Architecture Boat Tour.

Will weather stop a tour from running?

Wendella's architecture tours run year-round, Sargis said, although "weather is a factor."

Weather events like ice on the river or significant snowfall can impact operations, Sargis said, but they typically don't, since the Chicago River -- a federal waterway -- must remain navigable year-round.

While Wendella's boats do have climate-controlled indoor lounges, tours during the winter may run at limited times. But rain, snow, extreme heat or wind, unflappable Chicagoans still show up.

"We went on drizzly day a few years ago," Kathy Rambo wrote on NBC Chicago's Facebook page. "There were only about 10 of us on the boat!

And most often, the tour will run — rain or shine — so don't hesitate to bring a raincoat.

"I have certainly [given tours] under thunderstorms and downpours, and I've gotten drenched sometimes," Scheffle said. "I've never had a tour get canceled because no one bought a ticket. There's always someone wanting to come out here in the rain or the cold."

What's the best time of year (or day) to go?

It depends on when exactly your favorite time of the year is, and what you're hoping to see.

For Sargis, it's late summer. "There's this point of time in September when the weather is beautiful, but there's not that summer rush."

There are other times that Chicagoans may want to consider, too.

"St. Patrick's Day Celebration when they dye the river, and any Wednesday or Saturday night [over the summer], watching the fireworks over Lake Michigan , especially if you're local" Sargis said.

During the summer months, Wendella's tours run start as early as 9 a.m., with the day's final tour not ending until 10 p.m. or 11 p.m., Scheffle said, "so if you want to come for a ride to see the city lights, you can come late, and it's also beautiful, just a little more difficult to see the colors on the buildings if that's what you want to see."

Laura Pubins, who lives in a suburb outside of Chicago, agrees.

"My favorite one was when we were on a boat at sunset," Pubins wrote to NBC Chicago on Facebook. "It was an awesome new view of the city."

What's the most photogenic spot on the tour?

For Sargis, it's "anything out on Lake Michigan," with the skyline in the background.

On the river though, there's one moment that captures the city best, Scheffle said, no matter what time of day you're taking the trip.

"The best place to take a photo on the 90-minute river tour is when we come up the south branch from Chinatown," Scheffle said. "That's the best place because you get the whole skyline from the south. It's really beautiful."

For locals though, it may not be what you're looking at, so much as how you're looking at it.

"You're looking at [the city] from underneath," said Chicago resident Nick Pappas, 55, who recently found himself on a 90-minute river tour. "It's just a different perspective on the river that you don't get on the street level. As amazing as that sounds, you're only, like, 20 feet down, but it gives you a whole different perspective."

What does the training for a tour guide look like?

According to Sargis, all Wendella tour guides are trained in-house -- and the spots are competitive.

"There's high demand," Sargis said, of the position. "There are more people that want to be tour guides than space available. It's certainly a popular job, and people want to do it." While the tour guide of any given architecture tour isn't made public, many people do request certain ones for private events, Sargis said.

For the tours, there's a general script, with highlights that must be mentioned, Sargis said. But improvisation, along with sharing personal history is encouraged, too.

"All of the tour guides have their own experience in the city, and will add parts of their history in it," Sargis said. "We have a tour guide that is a retired police officer, and he will interject anecdotes form his career. We have a tour guide that's a Vietnam War Veteran, and when we go by the Vietnam War Memorial, he will always discuss the importance of it to him."

For Scheffle, the training included joining multiple tours a week for two weeks and flashcards.

"For a while, I, just drove Uber and Lyft," Scheffle said. "And then, I remembered that I really liked Chicago. I like learning fun facts about it. And there are people in the city that have that as a job -- to tell people fun facts about Chicago and I started looking into tourism jobs in the city."

What's the most common question tour guides get?

Believe it or not, it's not always about The Great Chicago Fire , or Mrs. O'Leary and her cow, at least on Scheffle's tours.

"My favorite thing on the tour that happens is probably when little kids ask questions," Scheffle said. "The common question that a kid will ask, because I talk about the tallest building, second tallest building, third tallest building, a lot of times a kid will ask what's the shortest building in Chicago? Which I don't have a good answer for."

Are you supposed to tip your guide?

"It's up to the discretion of the client," Sargis said. "I would say a lot of our passengers do tip our tour guides."

What's the absolute best part of the tour?

Sure the tour is photogenic, and the city's history is fascinating. And though some may go on the tour to find out what buildings are new, others prefer to think about the old.

"My favorite building to talk about is probably the Board of Trade building," Scheffle said. "Just because I remember walking by it much younger and always, I remember, really being impressed by it, thinking was such a cool big city building."

For a local on the tour, the memories are nice. But a day out on the water in Chicago is just hard to beat.

"It's great. I don't have to work," said Pappas, who has lived in the city for 55 years. "Every time, it's a little treat to go down the river."

Video editors Ivonne Ramirez and DS Shin produced and created the video for this story.

The Reid Murdoch Building and Chicago River in Chicago, Illinois, United States, on October 16, 2022. (Photo by Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

  • architecture

Chicago's iconic river architecture boat tour returns to downtown on St. Patrick's Day weekend

WLS logo

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago Architecture Center's River Cruises will be back in service on St. Patrick's Day weekend.

Cruisers will travel down all three branches of the Chicago River on Chicago's First Lady.

RELATED: St. Patrick's Day 2024 parades, river dyeing, pop-up bars and parties

More than 50 buildings are discussed during the tours, including Willis Tower, the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, and more.

Tours are given by volunteers certified by the Chicago Architecture Center.

Departures begin Sunday, March 17.

Know before you go

Guests can take individually-wrapped food on any boat tour. There is also a full-service cash bar that offers snacks and drinks.

Luggage and strollers are not allowed aboard the boats, according to the website.

Ticket prices start at $54 for daytime cruises, prices vary.

To see available dates, click here.

Related Topics

  • COMMUNITY & EVENTS
  • CHICAGO RIVERWALK
  • ARCHITECTURE
  • WILLIS TOWER
  • CHICAGO RIVER
  • LAKE MICHIGAN

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IMAGES

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  3. Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour

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  5. 45-Minute Chicago River Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

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VIDEO

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COMMENTS

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