Chicago History and Architecture Walking Tour with Boat Cruise
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Chicago History and Architecture Walking Tour with Boat Cruise

Active
(10 reviews)
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the heart of the Windy City Beginning at Millennium Park, home to the world-famous Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), and stroll through lush gardens and striking public art. Uncover hidden gems in the Chicago Pedway, then emerge onto the scenic Chicago Riverwalk for sweeping skyline views.

Continue along the Magnificent Mile, where you’ll admire architectural icons like the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower before crossing the historic Michigan Avenue Bridge. Along the way, learn fascinating stories about the Great Chicago Fire and even sample a classic local savory treat (optional purchase). Visit the impressive Starbucks Reserve Roastery, celebrating flavors as rich as Chicago’s history.

To finish your adventure, step aboard the Shoreline Architecture Cruise for a narrated boat tour, where you’ll see more than 40 iconic Chicago landmarks—from hidden architectural details to the city’s most famous monuments—while enjoying breathtaking skyline views from the water.

Available options

Chicago History and Architecture Walking Tour with Boat Cruise

What's included

Narrated Walking Tour of Chicago
Chicago Boat Cruise (Admission Included)
Points of Interest Such as Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) and Millennium park

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Cloud Gate, also known as "The Bean," is a public sculpture by artist Anish Kapoor located in Millennium Park in Chicago. Made of polished stainless steel, it reflects the city's skyline and the surrounding park, creating a captivating and interactive visual experience. Since its unveiling in 2006, it has become an iconic symbol of Chicago.

2
Stop 2 Pass by

Millennium Park, located in the heart of Chicago, is a vibrant urban space that features iconic attractions such as Cloud Gate, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and the Crown Fountain. Opened in 2004, the park hosts numerous cultural events, concerts, and art installations, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Its innovative design and stunning landscapes have made it a symbol of the city's commitment to public art and green spaces.

3
Stop 3 Pass by

The Chicago Waterfront and Riverwalk offer scenic promenades along the Chicago River, featuring walking paths, outdoor seating, and numerous dining options. This vibrant area provides a unique way to explore the city's architecture and enjoy activities such as boat tours and kayaking. The Riverwalk's revitalization has transformed it into a bustling hub for both locals and visitors, enhancing the urban experience with stunning views and cultural attractions.

4
Stop 4

The Chicago Pedway is an extensive network of underground tunnels, sky bridges, and concourses that connects numerous buildings in the downtown area. Spanning over 40 blocks, it provides a convenient and weather-protected route for pedestrians to navigate the city. The Pedway links major destinations such as office buildings, hotels, and public transit stations, making it an essential part of Chicago's urban infrastructure.

5

The Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) is a premier cultural institution dedicated to celebrating and promoting the city's architectural legacy. Located on the banks of the Chicago River, it offers a range of exhibits, tours, and educational programs that highlight Chicago's iconic buildings and innovative design. The CAC serves as a hub for architecture enthusiasts and visitors seeking to learn about the city's rich architectural history.

6
Stop 6 Pass by

The Wrigley Building, an iconic Chicago landmark, is a two-tower structure located on the city's Magnificent Mile. Completed in the 1920s, its distinctive white terra cotta facade and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture make it one of Chicago's most recognizable buildings. Originally built as the headquarters for the Wrigley Company, it remains a symbol of the city's architectural grandeur.

7
Stop 7 Pass by

The Tribune Tower is a neo-Gothic skyscraper located on Michigan Avenue in Chicago. Completed in 1925, it was built to house the Chicago Tribune newspaper and is renowned for its ornate design and the incorporation of stones from famous landmarks around the world into its facade. The building stands as a testament to Chicago's rich journalistic history and architectural innovation.

8

The InterContinental Chicago Hotel, located on the city's Magnificent Mile, is a luxurious and historic hotel known for its distinctive blend of classic and contemporary architecture. Originally built in 1929 as the Medinah Athletic Club, the hotel features elegant design elements, such as its opulent Grand Ballroom and a unique junior Olympic size swimming pool. Today, it offers upscale accommodations and amenities, making it a prominent destination for travelers seeking a lavish experience in downtown Chicago.

9

The Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Chicago is the largest Starbucks in the world, spanning five stories on the Magnificent Mile. Opened in 2019, it offers an immersive coffee experience with on-site roasting, exclusive Reserve coffee blends, and artisanal food offerings. The stunning design and interactive elements make it a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts and tourists alike.

10
Stop 10

Navy Pier is one of Chicago's most popular attractions, stretching along Lake Michigan with a variety of entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences. Originally opened in 1916, it features a Ferris wheel, theaters, museums, and seasonal events, making it a year-round destination for locals and tourists. The pier's vibrant atmosphere and scenic views of the city skyline and lakefront make it a quintessential part of the Chicago experience.

11

Enjoy a narrated boat tour where you will see the breathtaking views of over 40 Chicago iconic landmarks, from hidden architectural features to the Windy City's most famous monuments.

What's not included

Gratuities (Optional)

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4
5 reviews
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1★
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Tripadvisor 5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
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1★
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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

McCormick Tribune Plaza - 1 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60602, United States (In front of the Park Grill)

Important notes

Online or Printed Vouchers Accepted

About Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant city known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and world-class cuisine. Situated along the shores of Lake Michigan, it offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe.

Top Attractions

Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a famous public park in downtown Chicago, known for its modern art and architecture. It's home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as 'The Bean'.

Park 1-2 hours Free

Art Institute of Chicago

One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, the Art Institute of Chicago houses an impressive collection of artworks from around the world.

Museum 2-3 hours $25 (adults), Free for children under 14

Skydeck Chicago

Located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, Skydeck Chicago offers breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan. Visitors can step out onto The Ledge, a glass balcony extending out from the building.

Observation Deck 1-2 hours $28 (adults), $20 (children 3-11)

Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan. It offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and rides.

Entertainment 2-4 hours Free to enter, individual attractions have varying costs

Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field is a historic baseball park located on the North Side of Chicago. It's home to the Chicago Cubs and offers a unique atmosphere for sports fans.

Sports 2-4 hours (game duration varies) Ticket prices vary depending on the game and seating

Must-Try Local Dishes

Deep-Dish Pizza

A thick, buttery crust filled with layers of cheese, toppings, and tomato sauce. It's a Chicago classic and a must-try for pizza lovers.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some restaurants.

Chicago-Style Hot Dog

A steamed or grilled all-beef hot dog topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt, all served on a poppy seed bun.

Snack Contains gluten and dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some hot dog stands.

Italian Beef Sandwich

Thinly sliced beef cooked in its own juices and served on an Italian roll. It's typically dipped in the juices and topped with sweet or hot peppers.

Lunch/Dinner Contains gluten and beef. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some Italian beef restaurants.

Chicago-Style Popcorn

A sweet and savory snack made with caramel and cheese-flavored popcorn, often sold in colorful boxes at street corners and ballgames.

Snack Contains dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some popcorn stands.

Popular Activities

Kayaking on the Chicago River Biking along Lake Michigan Rock climbing at First Ascent Picnicking in Millennium Park Yoga in the park Spa treatments at The Peninsula Chicago Visiting the Art Institute of Chicago Attending a performance at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Chicago for outdoor activities, festivals, and sightseeing. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's parks and attractions.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Spanish, Polish, Chinese
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Chicago is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Some areas of the city have higher crime rates, and visitors should research their destinations before traveling.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
  • • Avoid walking alone in isolated or poorly lit areas, especially at night

Getting there

By air
  • O'Hare International Airport • 27 km (17 miles) from city center
  • Midway International Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center
By train

Union Station, Ogilvie Transportation Center

By bus

Greyhound Station, Megabus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The 'L' is a convenient and affordable way to get around Chicago. It consists of eight color-coded lines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Loop Lincoln Park Wicker Park Magnificent Mile Pilsen

Day trips

Navy Pier
2 km (1.2 miles) • Half day to full day

Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan. It offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and rides.

Wrigley Field
10 km (6.2 miles) • Half day to full day

Wrigley Field is a historic baseball park located on the North Side of Chicago. It's home to the Chicago Cubs and offers a unique atmosphere for sports fans.

Museum Campus
3 km (1.9 miles) • Half day to full day

The Museum Campus is a 57-acre park located on the southern tip of Grant Park in Chicago. It's home to several world-class museums, including the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium.

Festivals

Lollapalooza • Early August (4-day festival) Chicago Jazz Festival • Late August to early September (weekend festival) Chicago Food Festival • Early September (weekend festival)

Pro tips

  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and long wait times
  • Use the Ventra card for easy and convenient payments on public transportation
  • Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods and culinary scene to get a true sense of Chicago's character and culture
  • Take an architecture river cruise to see the city's stunning skyline and learn about its architectural history
  • Visit the city's many parks and outdoor spaces to enjoy nature and outdoor activities, even in the heart of the city
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-99
1
Childs
Age 4-12
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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