All Chicago Tours &amp; Excursions in 2026

Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour

Admire some of the Windy City's most iconic views—and enjoy a time-saving, relaxing way to sightsee—aboard this pet-friendly Chicago River architecture boat tour. With commentary from your onboard guide, watch the spectacular skyline glide by, including dozens of notable buildings, like the Wrigley Building and the John Hancock Building. In just one tour, you cover multiple branches of the Chicago River and learn insider facts and stories you'd otherwise miss.

(10,832)

from USD 45

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Drink in a one-of-a-kind perspective on the Windy City when you go for an evening cruise, perfectly timed to coincide with the sunset. Hop aboard your open-top vessel (with an enclosed and climate-controlled lounge) in the heart of the Magnificent Mile, and cruise along the Chicago River. Then, see the skyline from a distance, and watch the skyscrapers light up, when you continue to Lake Michigan for a sunset viewing.

(16,894)

from USD 39

Likely to Sell Out

360 panoramic views of the Chicago skyline at sunset.

Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in Chicago

Marvel at Chicago's iconic architecture and lakefront from a unique perspective with this 30-minute immersive ride. With drone footage, helicopter-mounted cameras, and other custom media, Flyover Chicago creates the sensation of flying above and through the city to take in its highlights from above. Get up close to details atop the highest skyscrapers and learn about Chicago's history and cityscape during the ride.

4.5

(1,676)

from USD 45

30 minutesFree Cancellation

Flyover in Chicago

Visit the Skydeck, located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower), with ease thanks to this prebooked ticket option. Avoid long lines at the ticket office and enter directly to access the highest point in Chicago. Peruse interactive displays and exhibits showcasing Chicago's history. Then walk out on to the Ledge, a glass balcony that offers unimpeded views of Navy Pier and Wrigley Field.

(700)

from USD 28

Skydeck - Willis Tower Admission

30 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.3

(1,900)

from USD 44

Chicago Hop On Hop Off Open Top Bus Tour

See Chicago your way with flexible hop-on hop-off tickets designed to suit every sightseeing style. Explore the Windy City at your own pace, hopping off to visit top attractions such as Millennium Park, Navy Pier, the Magnificent Mile, and the Chicago Riverwalk while enjoying onboard commentary that adds context to what you see. Perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time, this tour offers flexibility and ensures you don’t miss any of Chicago’s highlights. You can also upgrade your experience to enjoy extra sightseeing time and a panoramic sunset tour for unforgettable skyline views.

Chicago Hop On Hop Off Open Top Bus Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

3.9

(2,376)

from USD 49

Likely to Sell Out

Join us in the daytime or evening for City lights and breathtaking views

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.

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

45 minutesFree Cancellation

Tower above the Windy City’s world-famous skyline with pre-booked admission to 360 Chicago—a great way to avoid long ticket lines. Ascend one of the tallest buildings in North America aboard its lightning-fast elevator, and be rewarded with bird’s-eye views of Chicago and Lake Michigan. You can also upgrade to the Sip and View ticket, which includes one drink at the newly renovated CloudBar. Once onsite, you can purchase tickets to TILT, 360 Chicago's top attraction.

(3,541)

from USD 28

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck Admission

1 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

3.9

(1,302)

from USD 30

Total Chicago: From Architecture to Food

Experience Chicago like a true insider on this top-rated walking tour that blends the city’s most iconic food, awe-inspiring architecture, and rich history — all in one unforgettable day. From deep-dish pizza to legendary skyscrapers, you’ll taste, see, and learn what makes the Windy City a world-class destination. Led by expert local guides and limited to just 12 guests, this immersive, small-group tour is the perfect way to discover the real Chicago — not just the tourist spots.

Chicago in a Day Walking Tour: Food, History & Architecture

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.9

(1,359)

from USD 101

Price varies by group size

Get the most out of your trip to Chicago as you enjoy discount access to five of the city’s top attractions with the CityPASS®. This easy-to-use mobile ticket grants you free entry into top-tier sights including the Chicago's most famous aquarium and Skydeck Chicago, plus your choice of admission to three of the following attractions: Field Museum, Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Science and Industry, 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck, Adler Planetarium, or Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour.

from USD 144

Chicago's Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket

15 minutesFree Cancellation

4.2

(81)

from USD 24

The best views of Chicago can be yours at 360 Chicago Observation Deck! Perched 94 stories above the Windy City in the former John Hancock Building, 360 Chicago provides commanding views of Lake Michigan and Chicago’s towering skyscrapers. Located in the heart of downtown on Michigan Avenue, the observatory is steps away from other top Chicago attractions. It will be the high point (literally) of your Chicago trip! Upgrade to the Sip and View ticket, which includes one drink at the newly renovated CloudBar. The Sip menu includes a rotating selection of beer, wine and cocktails. Once onsite, you can purchase tickets to TILT, a thrill ride that offers visitors unique, downward facing views from 1,030 feet. You may also choose to upgrade your Sip and View ticket from the Sip Menu to the Elevated Menu for an additional $8. *TILT not included in purchase

360 Chicago Observation Deck Sip and View Ticket

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.0

(110)

from USD 44

Museum of Ice Cream Chicago Admission Ticket

Enter a land of sugar and adventure with admission to Chicago’s Museum of Ice Cream. Immerse yourself in a vibrant world of interactive exhibits, including sprinkle-filled pools, whimsical selfie spots, and exclusive ice cream sampling stations offering seasonal flavors. Whether you’re an art lover or a dessert enthusiast, this playful, family-friendly experience promises fun and memories for all. Avoid disappointment by booking your preferred time.

Museum of Ice Cream Chicago Admission Ticket

1 hour 30 minutes

3.4

(457)

from USD 43

Museum of Illusions Chicago Admission Ticket

Step into the captivating realm of illusions, where reality is never exactly as it appears. Museum of Illusions is a one-of-a-kind, visual, sensory, and educational experience designed to engage your sense of wonder and challenge perceptions through the science behind optical illusions. We offer over 50 immersive, hands-on exhibits to explore. Our illusion rooms, installations and holograms let you defy gravity, grow and shrink your body, walk into a life-size kaleidoscope, and play tricks on your senses at every turn. It’s a mind-bending journey that deceives the senses and reveals how the brain interprets reality.

Museum of Illusions Chicago Admission Ticket

45 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes

4.2

(12)

from USD 43

Chicago River Ghost & Dark History Night Cruise

See Chicago from a different perspective on this evening cruise that explores the city’s darker side. As twilight settles over the skyline, glide along the Chicago River while hearing chilling tales of disasters, infamous criminals, and eerie legends tied to the city’s past. This relaxed river cruise blends atmospheric storytelling with some of the best nighttime views of Chicago’s renowned skyline and landmarks. Grab a drink from the onboard bar, settle in, and let the city’s shadowy history unfold as you cruise through the heart of downtown. By the end of the journey, you’ll have experienced Chicago’s skyline in a whole new way—while uncovering the chilling events, legends, and mysteries that shaped the city. Please arrive 30 minutes in advance!

Chicago River Ghost & Dark History Night Cruise

Voted the #1 Immersive Art Experience in America by USA Today readers in 2024, Color Factory Chicago celebrates the joy of color. Guests embark on a bright and colorful journey through 14+ immersive installations that inspire joy and human connection, expand boundaries of perception, encourage play, and engage the senses in unexpected ways. Fun for all ages, each visit includes surprise giveaways, sweet treats, and complimentary digital photos. From the lobby to the gift shop and every colorful moment in between, our spaces are as inclusive as they are dynamic and celebratory. Each room is designed in partnership with an exceptional roster of local and international artists and collaborators. Jump into color with us! Please note: At least ONE person's ID must match the name on ONE ticket. If no one in your party has an ID matching the name on one ticket, you will not be allowed entry. Minors under the age of 18 will not be allowed inside without a parent or guardian.

4.1

(195)

from USD 46

Color Factory Chicago Ticket

1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes

4.5

(46)

from USD 34

Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tour

We are the original, top-rated Gangsters and Ghosts tour! Hear the tales of the ghosts, and gangsters, that haunt the city. Explore the Chicago South Loop district with your historian guide, uncovering the many mysteries hidden behind every turn. Walk through Chicago's notorious South Loop, known as a vice district during the 1920s and 30s. Stroll through this now upmarket area of the city which was once home to underground speakeasies, secret tunnels, and bootleggers. Hear the true stories of Chicago's bloody past and the gangsters who caused havoc in the city. See the places notorious figures such as Al Capone used to party, make deals, and carry out "business". Discover the legends of the ghosts that are said to lure along the Chicago Riverwalk and the aptly named Death Alley. Stop at haunted locations including Palmer House, and the Chicago Theatre, before finishing outside the Congress Hotel, one of the most haunted places in Illinois.

Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Witness Chicago’s stunning skyline from above on this exhilarating helicopter tour. Departing from the Vertiport, the flight offers breathtaking views of the city’s iconic architecture, including Soldier Field and the Shedd Aquarium, as well as the picturesque Lake Michigan shoreline. This unforgettable experience showcases 8 key points of interest along a scenic 10-mile route, perfect for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a unique perspective of the Windy City. - 10-mile scenic helicopter flight over Chicago's skyline - Fly past famous landmarks like Soilder Field and Chinatown - Minimum of 2 passengers required, maximum of 3 per flight - Free parking available at the Vertiport Chicago

(144)

from USD 38

Chicago Skyline Snap Tour Helicopter Flight Over Chicago

Chicago Skyline Snap Tour Helicopter Flight Over Chicago

7 to 10 minutesFree Cancellation

3.8

(11)

from USD 150

Likely to Sell Out

This tour cruises the Chicago River and Lake Michigan.

Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

Discover more of Chicago beyond downtown with this convenient South Side open-top shuttle transfer. Travel from central Chicago to some of the city’s most important cultural and historic destinations, including Jackson Park, the Obama Presidential Center campus, and the Griffin Museum of Science & Industry. Enjoy an easy ride south without arranging taxis, rideshares, or public transit connections. The shuttle first stops near the Obama Presidential Center and Jackson Park, giving you access to one of Chicago’s most historic lakefront spaces. Explore the area at your own pace, take photos, or continue your visit independently. The route also serves the Griffin Museum of Science & Industry, one of Chicago’s most popular attractions and one of the largest science museums in the world. This is a great option for travelers who want a simple, affordable way to visit Chicago’s South Side highlights from downtown. Choose a one-way transfer or an all-day ticket for added flexibility.

(2,424)

from USD 45

Open Top Bus Shuttle to South Side and Obama Presidential Center

Open Top Bus Shuttle to South Side and Obama Presidential Center

30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.4

(9)

from USD 10

Medieval Torture Museum Ticket with Audio Guide and Ghost Hunting

Discover one of the Windy City’s most spooky, gruesome destinations when you book advance tickets to the Medieval Torture Museum. Perfect for Halloween—or any other creepy-crawly occasion—this museum includes a wealth of information about medieval torture practices and devices, plus realistic models to add a macabre edge. Book tickets before you travel for a seamless visiting experience, and make use of an audio guide and included ghost-hunting app.

Medieval Torture Museum Ticket with Audio Guide and Ghost Hunting

Eat your way through downtown Chicago on a walking food tour. Visit Millennium Park, the Palmer House Hotel, and other city landmarks and taste quintessential Chicago foods such as deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and chocolate brownies. All food tastings are included, and the tour covers an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km) suitable for most fitness levels. A bike or kayak rental is also included in the tour cost.

(1,070)

from USD 36

Taste deep-dish pizza, a Chicago-style hot dog, Italian beef, Garrett’s popcorn & the original 1893 brownie on our top-rated Chicago Food Tours—the ultimate Chicago Culinary Tour experience!

Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(2,271)

from USD 85

Chicago River Spectacular Fireworks Show and Tiki Bar Cruise

Admire up-close views of the Chicago skyline—and a fireworks show over the city—on this tiki bar boat tour. In the evening, make your own way to the departure point at the Chicago Riverwalk, hop aboard, and get comfortable in the air-conditioned seating area or on the deck. Purchase cocktails and food from the on-site tiki bar, watch the city float by, and then sit back and take in the show.

Chicago River Spectacular Fireworks Show and Tiki Bar Cruise

1 hour 30 minutes

4.1

(37)

from USD 63

Stop off the bus at Chicago Landmark Building with Prohibition Era History

Chicago Night Crimes Tour by Bus

2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour

(511)

from USD 55

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Top Attractions in Chicago

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Attractions

What are people saying about Chicago

Gail_F, Aug 2026

A Chicago Must!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had a fantastic experience on the Wendella Architecture River Cruise! Our tour guide, Kenny, was fabulous—knowledgeable, entertaining, and full of interesting information about Chicago. We learned so much about the city, its history, and its incredible architecture. The weather couldn’t have been better—a beautiful, sunny morning with pleasant temperatures. The open bar was a great bonus, and the mimosas were delicious! Kenny did a wonderful job pointing out the historic buildings and landmarks along the way, and there were so many great photo opportunities. It was a relaxing, informative, and fun way to experience Chicago. Highly recommend this tour—and if you’re lucky enough to get Kenny as your guide, even better!

Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise

Travis_M, Aug 2026

Enjoyed

Just had a little problem finding a place to park but called the vendor and the young lady that answered the phone was very patient and helpful. Very good tour. Our narrator Jupiter, did a good job of pointing out all the sites and answering questions.

Flyover in Chicago

Charnique_W, Aug 2026

10/10 highly recommended

My daughter and I loved this experience. Purchasing our ticket on Viator was so much easier, I absolutely loved how it showed up on my phone screen as a reminder of the event for the day when added to my wallet. The place was clean and the staff was nice. We went on a weekday so the line was short and we got in, in less than 5 mins. I would definitely do this again!!!!

Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in Chicago

Michelle_C, Aug 2026

Magical

A wonderful casual experience that showcases the magic of Chicago. Our 7:00 pm cruise gave us both a beautiful sunset view and the twinkle of the city skyline at night. We bonded with other passengers who were equally taken by the view, all while listening to a perfectly matched playlist.

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Breah_C, Aug 2026

This was so enjoyable! We...

This was so enjoyable! We did the 8:30pm tour, which I would highly recommend. The entire city is lit up making for the most breathtaking views. Sam S was our guide (the best guide for sure) and his knowledge along with charismatic presentation truly made the entire experience top notch. With the availability of the bar and snacks on deck, I could have stayed on board for hours. The information given during the tour were things I truly had never heard before and kept my attention the entire time. It was a very smooth ride and the boat seemed to make no noise at all allowing for no issues hearing Sam S or the quiet sounds of the city around. 100/10 experience!

Chicago By Night River and Lake Cruise

Deidre_S, Aug 2026

A great experience

First Lady boat ride was a great experience. You will start on the Chicago river and merge into the Michigan lake. The view was amazing I mean amazing especially at night! The con was it can get a little bit chilly at night so bring a jacket. They sell blankets if you were to get cold and they also have a bar so you can sip and enjoy the ride. I would definitely recommend it.

Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

Liliana_B, Aug 2026

Could not recommend Emma enough!!

Emma our tour guide to the fantastic job! It was such a fun and engaging tour and we got to see so much of Chicago in the hour and a half. The AC worked well and you were able to get drinks while I’m bored and of course, go in and out as you please. The bathrooms were clean and the stuff was all very helpful and knowledgeable. Highly recommend!

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Katie_T, Aug 2026

Excellent educational tour for all ages

Very educational. We had a group of 8 ranging from 50’s down to a 3 and 4 year old and it was just the right amount of time for them. We did the 9:00 one and John Miller did an excellent job being enthusiastic so early in the morning. Looks as if he truly enjoys his job.

Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

Fran, Aug 2026

Worth the money

Easy to navigate and get to. The parking is in a lot you have to scan a QR code and pay for located adjacent. ~$17 for all day. The tour itself was executed well with a knowledgeable tour guide. Enough to see the river and riverwalk skyline. Take note of weather as some fog may not make the building appear but if it's a clear day, it will be really nice. If the sun doesn't hit you when the buildings shadow you, take a little sweater as the wind may make it cold. Overall, I enjoyed this tour.

Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago

Stanley_A, July 2026

We had a great experience...

We had a great experience on the Skyline Cruise in Chicago. The staff was extremely friendly and welcoming from start to finish. The boat ride was smooth, and the views of the city were absolutely beautiful. We also enjoyed learning about Chicago’s landmarks and history throughout the tour. I would highly recommend this cruise to anyone visiting Chicago—it’s a relaxing, scenic, and educational experience!