Tours and Tickets to Experience Marina City

There are plenty of ways to experience Marina City. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Chicago Architecture River Cruise
• Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour
• Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
• Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile
• Chicago Walking Tour: Modern Architecture

The residential and commercial complex in Chicago does not offer official public tours or tickets. However, you can walk by the buildings free of charge. Or, view and learn about Marina City through architecture tours that include it as a point of interest. These tours start at around US$30.

Marina City is known for its iconic corn cob-shaped twin towers, a hallmark of mid-20th century modern architecture. It was one of the first mixed-use developments in the US. The complex includes residential apartments, offices, a hotel, restaurants, and a marina, making it a self-contained “city within a city.”

To see Marina City from the Chicago River, you can take one of the city’s popular architecture boat tours. They usually depart from docks near Michigan Avenue or Navy Pier. When booking, look for tours that focus on the architecture and history of Chicago’s skyline.

Marina City is in the heart of downtown Chicago, along the Chicago River near the Magnificent Mile. Take the CTA Red Line to Grand Station or the Brown Line to Merchandise Mart Station (a 5- to 10-minute walk). It’s walkable from landmarks like the Chicago Riverwalk or the Wrigley Building.

No, the rooftop of Marina City is not open to the public. Marina City is primarily a residential and mixed-use complex with restricted rooftop access. However, you can enjoy excellent views of the buildings from the Chicago Riverwalk, nearby bridges, the sidewalk, or via an architecture-focused boat tour.