

Chicago River
6,542 Reviews
Winding its way through the heart of the Windy City, the Chicago River flows past some of the city’s most notable architecture, including the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower), Wrigley Building, and Navy Pier. The river also offers opportunities for exploration, such as river cruises, kayaking, and canoeing, along a revamped riverfront.
Open daily
The Loop, Chicago
Chicago River Tours
When are you traveling?
Popular
Search experiences that may have limited interaction with crowds.
Search experiences with increased health and safety practices.
Search tours and activities you can do from home.
You are viewing Virtual Experiences in Chicago. See more Virtual Experiences around the globe. 🌎
Price
Duration
Time of Day
RatingClear
Specials
26 results
Sort by:Featured

Chicago Architecture River Cruise
4607
Cruise down the Chicago River to see the city's famous architecture on this boat tour. With commentary from your onboard guide, watch the spectacular skyline glide by, including more than 40 notable buildings like Navy Pier, the Wrigley Building, and the John Hancock Building. Cover all three branches of the Chicago River, passing the East Bank Club, the old Post Office Building and the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower). From Memorial Day to Labor Day (May 29 - September 6,) each ticket includes a one-way water taxi ticket.
…More
From
$38.15
From
$38.15
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Chicago City Minibus Tour with Optional Architecture River Cruise
357
Explore Chicago's iconic landmarks on this sightseeing tour led by an expert guide. Board a comfortable, large-windowed minibus and explore downtown and Northside neighborhoods. You have a chance to get out and visit several locations and hear about the historical and cultural factors that make Chicago unique. Upgrade your tour with a popular open-top boat tour on the Chicago River that focuses on the city's renowned architecture.
…More
From
$39.95
From
$39.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Chicago Grand Half-Day Bus Tour
301
Get the perfect introduction to the wealth of sights in the Windy City during this 4-hour Chicago day tour. Discover the many landmarks spanning both the city's North Side and South Side, enjoying a scenic ride along Lake Michigan on Chicago's Outer Drive along the way. You'll also have the chance to admire the city's Washington and Grant Parks, explore inside the Lincoln Park Conservatory, see Adler Planetarium and visit the iconic Wrigley Building. This Chicago in a half day tour also includes transport between all sites and tour narration.
…More
From
$52.95
From
$52.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Chicago Sunset Cruise
6
The Sunset Cruise departs from the DuSable (Michigan Avenue) Bridge on Wendella's world class tour boats. Enjoy the beautiful City architecture from the best vantage point in Chicago. The vessel will then navigate through the Chicago Lock and out onto Lake Michigan. Watch the sun slowly set behind the city from the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan on this serene and romantic cruise.
…More
From
$41.60
From
$41.60
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
701
Don’t spend time figuring out what to see in Chicago and how to get there—this hop-on hop-off tour provides a mapped-out itinerary of the city's top sights. With several strategically located stops, the tour allows you to explore the Windy City at your own pace. See the world-class Art Institute and landmark skyscrapers, while live commentary onboard gives you insight into the city's colorful history.
…More
From
$26.10
From
$26.10
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Chicago in a Day: Food, History and Architecture Combo Tour
59
An excellent choice for first-time visitors, this tour provides a comprehensive overview of the city and hits on both classic attractions and little-known sites. Beginning at the Chicago Theatre, work your way to the Chicago Pedway, an elaborate network of underground tunnels used by locals and commuters. Stroll the Chicago Riverwalk and the Magnificent Mile, then embark on a food tour to taste some of the city’s famous foods.
…More
From
$102.30
From
$102.30
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
Learn More

Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
213
Step aboard a boat for a comprehensive cruise that details the history of Chicago's architecture. Enjoy views of the Chicago skyline accompanied by architecture-focused commentary that points out each of the landmark buildings. As you cruise through Lake Michigan, snap photos of you and your party against the stretch of Chicago's 26-mile shoreline.
…More
From
$39.00
From
$39.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Chicago Tiki Boat Party Cruise
3
See Chicago the Island Party way. Our floating Tiki Bar offers you the opportunity to take in all the sights and sounds as you relax an enjoy a beverage. Have questions about buildings? Our helpful staff will be happy to answer questions.
…More
From
$32.00
From
$32.00

Best of Chicago: History & Culture Tour with Chocolate and Popcorn
23
The Windy City is known for its spectacular architecture and eclectic food scene. Experience both on this tour through the downtown that combines sights with nibbles. Take in famous landmarks like the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, and Cloud Gate on foot and with the scenic L train or water taxi along the Chicago River. Taste popcorn and chocolate from two beloved city eateries during the tour.
…More
From
$50.63
From
$50.63
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
Learn More

Chicago City Minibus Tour
9
PLEASE NOTE: Our mini buses are disinfected after each tour. We will do our best to make each tour fun, informative and as SAFE as possible!
Freshly discounted private tours are also available. They will be the best way to travel for a while. Select the Private Tour category.
Enjoy Chicago’s famous sights (now including Wrigley Field!) and fabulous views on this award-winning small-group sightseeing tour of the city. Travel through Chicago with an expert guide on a comfortable minibus, stopping at iconic locations like early skyscraper "The Rookery" (Frank Lloyd Wright architecture), Museum Campus (for the BEST skyline view in town), Millennium Park (The Bean), Buckingham Fountain, The Magnificent Mile, Lincoln Park, Chicago River, The Gold Coast, Lake Shore Drive and more! Along the way, your guide will provide historical and informational commentary about the area and its many attractions. The small-group atmosphere with maximum of 10 people ensures a more personal experience.
…More
From
$39.95
From
$39.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

45-min Chicago River Architecture Tour - Magnificent Mile
32
Get a front row perspective on the exquisite buildings that line the Chicago River during a 45-minute architecture cruise. Hear live commentary about the history and architectural heritage of Chicago on this family-friendly tour, which highlights landmarks such as the Chicago Riverwalk, Michigan Avenue Bridge, Wrigley Building, and Willis Tower. Sit on the open-air top deck or the sheltered bottom deck for the ultimate view of Chicago.
…More
From
$23.00
From
$23.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

We Love Chicago Walking Tour
4
Downtown Chicago is filled with gems. Some famous, others known only by select locals. Many of these spots are best seen on foot as opposed to a moving vehicle. We'll take you inside several of these architectural masterpieces, to where much of Chicago's real beauty can be seen. We'll also give you time to check out famous public art by the likes of Picasso and Chagall and see the world's very first skyscrapers! All of our tours are led by experienced guide that have been giving quality tours of Chicago since 2005 and have accrued well over 500 five-star reviews. People mostly comment on how our tours are both informative and entertaining. The walk is a little under 2 miles and conducted at a comfortable pace.
…More
From
$35.00
From
$35.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Lonely Planet Experiences: River North Historical Food Tour
9
Get to know the food offerings in River North on this small-group walking tour. As you explore, listen to in-depth commentary from your guide on the culinary history of Chicago and the culture of the River North neighborhood. With a small group of just 12 fellow food-lovers, you'll enjoy personalized attention and the chance to chat about your favorite tastings. Samples include the classic Italian beef, a Chicago-style hot dog, and the famous deep dish pizza.
…More
From
$60.96
From
$60.96
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
Learn More

Best in Chow: Chicago River North Food Tour
208
Go beyond deep-dish on this culinary walking tour of Chicago, which includes five tastings of classic Windy City cuisine. Navigate the endless options of downtown dining with a guide who can provide insight into the best food Chicago has to offer, and skip the lines and the wait with VIP access to popular restaurants.
…More
From
$64.00
From
$64.00

Private Chicago Highlights Driving Tour
12
Get an insider’s look at the Windy City’s most iconic monuments during this 3-hour private tour. Travel through Chicago aboard a private vehicle as you discover some of the city’s top neighborhoods, including the Loop, River North, the Magnificent Mile (along Michigan Avenue), Streeterville, the Gold Coast and much more. Your private driver-guide and vehicle, bottled water and round-trip hotel transport are all included.
…More
From
$190.00
Price varies by group size
From
$190.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Chicago Scavenger Hunt: Chicago's Magnificent Mile
1
Named for the cable car turnarounds and the prominent elevated railway that encircled the area at the end of the 19th century, the Loop is Chicago's commercial and cultural core. On today's epic scavenger hunt of Chicago, you'll uncover the area's best sights and rich history. Along the way, you'll visit Cloud Gate, Art Institute of Chicago, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. It's time to strap on those walking shoes, round up some friends and book your Chicago Loop scavenger hunt today!
What You'll See: Tiffany Dome, The Bean, Crown Fountain, Art Institute of Chicago
…More
From
$13.08
From
$13.08

Chicago Small-Group Insider Segway Tour
24
This is a tour like no other! Our newest Segway adventure is completely unique and will cover the good, the bad, the ugly and the totally weird stories of Chicago. We will travel back through the ages as you discover the city through the lens of the Chicago Syndicate, hear the whispers of the city’s elite (or politicians), and be entertained by stories that are rarely told. You’ll think “No, really I never would have known!” Glide around Millennium Park, through the new neighborhood of Lakeshore East, and along the Lakefront as we unveil Chicago’s forgotten past in two hours! Your imagination will come alive as you hear stories of the Chicago Mob, the truth behind the 1968 Democratic National Convention, innovations that changed history, and so much more!
…More
From
$75.58
From
$75.58

Land and River Architecture Tour of Chicago's Scenic North Side
3
Discover Chicago’s iconic architectural gems from every angle on a 3.5-hour tour of the North Side. Divided between land and water, the comprehensive tour enables you to cover a huge area of the city without getting worn out. Travel comfortably by coach or trolley to Fort Dearborn, Wrigley Building, and more. Afterwards, see the Windy City's famous skyscrapers, bridges, and historical sites on a 90-minute cruise down Chicago River.
…More
From
$76.95
From
$76.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Private Tour of Chicago in Open Air Jeep
See Chicago the SAFEST way possible, in a PRIVATE open top Jeep Wrangler.
Fun, informative, cool music, top guides, best routes, customizable too.
Sanitized after each trip to do our best to protect everyone. Masks required at all times by driver/guide and guests over the age of 2.
…More
From
$80.00
Price varies by group size
From
$80.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Private Chicago City Minibus Tour
Don’t miss Chicago’s famous sights (now including Wrigley Field!) and fabulous views on this award-winning private sightseeing tour of the city. Travel through Chicago with an expert guide on a comfortable minibus, stopping at iconic locations like early skyscraper "The Rookery" (Frank Lloyd Wright architecture), Museum Campus (for the BEST skyline view in town), Millennium Park (The Bean), Buckingham Fountain, The Magnificent Mile, Lincoln Park, Chicago River, The Gold Coast, Lake Shore Drive and more! Along the way, your guide will provide historical and informational commentary about the area and its beautiful attractions. Your private tour ensures a more personal experience. If you would like to take the tour at a time other than what is offered, please note in special requests field when booking. The best way to tour at this time! Sanitized vehicles with just your group.
…More
From
$249.99
per group
From
$249.99
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Fright Hike: Chicago Halloween Bike Tour
2
Pedal through Chicago’s scary heritage with a 3-hour Halloween bike tour that includes hauntings, tragedies and overflowing cemeteries. Experience the creepiest parts of the city as you follow your professional actor guides through the Halloween streets, and watch them bring Chicago’s ghosts to life. Learn about the infamous ‘Resurrection Mary,’ figure out why the Levee District is so famously haunted, and hear the story of H.H. Holmes, Chicago’s most notorious serial killer.
…More
From
$49.99
From
$49.99
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Chicago Grand Tour and Admission to 360 Chicago (formerly John Hancock Observatory)
75
This Chicago grand tour covers four hours of sightseeing with admission to 360 Chicago (John Hancock Observatory). Get oriented to the Windy City on a coach tour that takes you along a scenic route on Lake Shore Drive, and past North Side and South Side highlights including Museum Campus, Lincoln Park, Washington Park, Grant Park and Wrigley Field. Finish on the 94th floor of the Hancock Center, one of Chicago's tallest landmarks, for panoramic views of the Magnificent Mile from the open-air observation deck.
…More
From
$73.95
From
$73.95
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Learn More

Chicago City Tour and Chicago River Cruise
90
See Chicago from a new perspective during this 4-hour combined bus and boat excursion covering some of the city's most iconic sights. First discover Windy City landmarks such as the skyscrapers of the Loop, Grant Park, Shedd Aquarium, Soldier Field and the former stomping grounds of President Obama during a narrated coach tour. Then take a Chicago cruise aboard your state-of-the-art yacht, enjoying a cruise of the Chicago River that provides a unique look at the city's architecture from the water. This half-day Chicago exploration also includes hotel pickup.
…More
From
$76.95
From
$76.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Scenic Chicago North Side Tour and Chicago Style Pizza
Get a comprehensive overview of Chicago’s North Side on a 3.5-hour sightseeing tour. Home to Wrigley Field, Tribune Tower, and Chicago Water Tower, the vibrant district is not to be missed. Enjoy live narration as you travel along North Lake Shore Drive past Lincoln Park Conservatory and Zoo and much more. After the tour, receive a meal voucher for a personal pizza at the popular Exchequer Restaurant.
…More
From
$56.95
From
$56.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More
FAQ’s
What are Chicago River hours of operation?
Chicago River hours of operation: Open daily. Buy tickets in advance on Viator. If you book with Viator, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund.
Should I book Chicago River tickets in advance?
We recommend booking e-tickets ahead of time to secure your spot since Chicago River can get crowded. If you book with Viator, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund. See all 26 Chicago River tickets and tours on Viator.
How much does it cost to visit Chicago River 2021?
Currently, an entrance ticket to Chicago River costs USD 13.08. Guided Chicago River tours start around USD 13.08 per person. See all 26 Chicago River tickets and tours on Viator.
What's the best way to experience Chicago River?
The best ways to experience Chicago River are:
- Chicago Architecture River Cruise
- Chicago City Minibus Tour with Optional Architecture River Cruise
- Chicago Grand Half-Day Bus Tour
- Chicago Sunset Cruise
Things to do near Chicago
- Things to do in Illinois
- Things to do in Cleveland
- Things to do in Nashville
- Things to do in Pittsburgh
- Things to do in Toronto
- Things to do in Niagara Falls & Around
- Things to do in Niagara Falls
- Things to do in Buffalo
- Things to do in Branson
- Things to do in Greenville
- Things to do in Atlanta
- Things to do in Washington DC
- Things to do in Ohio
- Things to do in Ontario
- Things to do in Missouri