Chicago Riverwalk Tours and Tickets

Q: How much does it cost to visit the Chicago Riverwalk in 2026?

While it’s free to visit the Chicago Riverwalk on your own, there are plenty of affordable tours that can help you learn more about the attraction with an expert guide—and have some fun along the way. Architecture boat tours that pass by the Riverwalk start at US$28 per person, while guided walking tours begin at around US$44.

Q: What types of tours can you do of the Chicago Riverwalk?

There are many ways to explore the Chicago Riverwalk, which follows the main arm of the Chicago River for 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) to Lake Shore Drive and Lake Michigan. Highlights include architecture river cruises, city walking tours, Chicago food excursions, bike and Segway tours, self-guided audio tours, and custom photo shoots.

Q: Is there a boat tour of the Chicago Riverwalk?

Yes, many of Chicago's most popular boat tours run along the Chicago River, parallel to the Chicago Riverwalk. These include the city's ever-popular open-top architecture boat tours, sunset cruises, and special-occasion holiday and fireworks boat tours. It's also possible to book a kayak rental and explore the Chicago River independently.

Q: Should you book Chicago Riverwalk tours in advance?

That depends. Chicago architecture boat tours depart throughout the day—and last-minute tickets are usually available—but it may be worth securing tickets in advance if you visit in summer. Most walking tours, bike tours, and Segway tours depart less frequently, so it's best to reserve your spot for those in advance.

Q: Are there restrooms at the Chicago Riverwalk?

Yes, there are some freestanding public restrooms along the Chicago Riverwalk. They are typically open from morning through late evening, though many are closed for the cold season (late October–late April). Alternatively, the Chicago Riverwalk is lined with bars, restaurants, and cafés, which offer bathrooms to customers.

Q: Is there parking at the Chicago Riverwalk?

Yes, there are various parking options along the Chicago Riverwalk. While there are no dedicated Riverwalk public parking garages, there are private garages nearby. Additionally, there is some street parking on the lowest level of Wacker Drive, which runs parallel to the Riverwalk. Street parking is free on Sunday.

Q: What do you see on a Chicago Riverwalk tour?

Whether self-guided or guide-led, a tour of the Chicago Riverwalk offers top-notch views overlooking the Chicago River and the city's iconic buildings, including the Merchandise Mart, <a href="/Chicago-attractions/Marina-City/d673-a26036" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Marina City</a>'s towers, DuSable Bridge, <a href="/Chicago-attractions/Wrigley-Building/d673-a17715" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Wrigley Building</a>, and <a href="/Chicago-attractions/Tribune-Tower/d673-a19261" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Tribune Tower</a>. The Riverwalk ends at Lake Michigan, and nearby attractions include <a href="/Chicago-attractions/Navy-Pier/d673-a1214" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Navy Pier</a> and <a href="/Chicago-attractions/Millennium-Park/d673-a1212" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Millennium Park</a>.

Q: What are the best attractions in Chicago other than the Chicago Riverwalk?

There are tons of fun things to do when you're done visiting the Chicago Riverwalk. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in Chicago:<ul><li><a href="/Chicago-attractions/Skydeck-Chicago-at-Willis-Tower/d673-a1215" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower (Sears Tower)</a></li><li><a href="/Chicago-attractions/The-Magnificent-Mile/d673-a3871" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">The Magnificent Mile</a></li><li><a href="/Chicago-attractions/Chicago-River/d673-a1219" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Chicago River</a></li><li><a href="/Chicago-attractions/Wrigley-Building/d673-a17715" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Wrigley Building</a></li><li><a href="/Chicago-attractions/Navy-Pier/d673-a1214" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Navy Pier</a></li></ul>View Viator's guide to <a href="/Chicago/d673" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">all the best attractions in Chicago</a>.

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Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

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.

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Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

45 minutesFree Cancellation

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Discover the architectural gems of the Windy City from an ideal vantage point—and learn insider facts and stories about the city's top attractions—on this Chicago River cruise. Travel in comfort aboard a boat equipped with both indoor and outdoor seating areas. Covering more than 130 years of architectural history, this tour is the perfect opportunity to see a huge area of the city without the hassle of taxis and public transit.

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Chicago River 90 Minute Architecture Tour

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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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!

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Chicago River Ghost & Dark History Night Cruise

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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Chicago Walking Tour: Must-See Chicago

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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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.

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Chicago Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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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.

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Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Explore the Chicago River in a unique way with this 120-minute Guided Ghost Tour. Learn about the city's haunted history, including the Great Chicago Fire and the Eastland Disaster. You are welcome to bring your own beverages and food/snacks to fully enjoy your time on the water. Departing from the Chicago Riverwalk, this is a fun and engaging way to experience the spooky side of the city. This tour is typically smaller allowing for you to interact with the tour guide! Ask all the questions, we are ready! - 120-minute ghost tour on the Chicago River for up to 18 passengers - Fun bring-your-own beverage/snacks experience with a u-shaped bar and coolers - Learn about Chicago's haunted history and significant events - Departures from the Chicago Riverwalk—15-minute early arrival required to allow time for check in and depart on time.

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Chicago River Guided Ghost Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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Uncover the notorious history of Chicago's gangster era on this immersive bus tour that takes you through the city's most infamous landmarks. Visit the Palmer House, where Al Capone once mingled, and pass the Congress Hotel, rumored to be haunted by ghostly figures. Drive through Grant Park to learn about H.H. Holmes and the chilling Iroquois Theatre Fire. At each stop, delve into gripping tales of rivalries, secret doors, and tragic events that shaped Chicago's past. This tour is perfect for history buffs and those intrigued by the darker side of the city. - Explore key sites linked to Al Capone and Chicago's gangland history - Discover chilling tales of hauntings, Death Alley, and the tragic Iroquois Theatre Fire - Enjoy stops at iconic locations like the Holy Name Cathedral and Grant Park - Engage in a unique paranormal photo opportunity by the Chicago River

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Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Minibus Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Chicago Explorer Pass: 35+ Things To Do - Includes 360 CHICAGO

1 to 30 days

4.0

(370)

from $84

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Skyline Lakefront and Millennium Park Chicago Private Day Tour

Explore Chicago’s iconic landmarks and scenic lakefront on a private, fully personalized city tour. Travel in comfort with your English-speaking driver, who shares local stories, history, and insights while guiding you through the city’s most famous sites. Begin at Millennium Park to see the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (“The Bean”), then visit Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park for stunning lake and skyline views. Drive through downtown to admire the Willis Tower Skydeck area, then enjoy the Chicago Riverwalk and Wacker Drive for striking architectural vistas. Continue to Navy Pier with its attractions and Centennial Wheel, then take a scenic drive along Lake Shore Drive for panoramic lakefront skyline views. Conclude at Lincoln Park and North Avenue Beach for one of the city’s most memorable photo spots. This flexible, door-to-door private tour offers a relaxed and immersive way to experience Chicago’s architecture, waterfront, and vibrant urban culture.

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Skyline Lakefront and Millennium Park Chicago Private Day Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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360 CHICAGO Observation Deck & Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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Chicago Architecture River Tour & Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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Chicago All Day Water Taxi

20 minutesFree Cancellation

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Discover the fascinating history of Chicago from a whole new perspective — on the water! This 120-minute Guided History Tour along the Chicago River brings the city’s past to life through captivating stories, iconic landmarks, and little-known facts that shaped the Windy City into what it is today. • Chicago’s transformation from swamp land to industrial hub to the modern metropolis it is today • The dramatic story of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and how the city rebuilt stronger than ever • Tales of Chicago’s most infamous gangsters and Prohibition-era legends • The groundbreaking 1893 World’s Fair and the inventions it introduced to the world • The incredible reversal of the Chicago River — its purpose and lasting impact on the city’s future Step aboard and experience how history, architecture, and innovation flow together on this unforgettable journey through Chicago’s past and present.

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BYOB Chicago River Guided History Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Special Offer

Discover Chicago's soaring ambition and neighborhood soul with your self-guided audio tour, allowing you to explore America's most architecturally significant city at your own pace. Begin at Millennium Park where Anish Kapoor's Cloud Gate reflects the skyline that pioneered skyscraper design and continues to push architectural boundaries today. Wander along the Chicago Riverwalk where boat tours explain how the city reversed the river's flow and rebuilt in steel and stone after the Great Fire of 1871. Marvel at the ICAs world-class collection. Explore the Magnificent Mile's shopping and historic Water Tower, then discover the vibrant neighborhoods where Polish, Mexican, and African American communities have shaped Chicago's culture. Experience the blues at clubs where Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy defined a genre, then savor deep-dish pizza in the taverns that perfected this Chicago original.

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Discover Chicago: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

8 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

2.0

(1)

from

Special Offer

Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Late Night Halloween Special

Uncover the chilling history of Chicago's gangsters and ghosts on this thrilling late-night Halloween walking tour. Delve into the dark secrets of the South Loop, once a vice district, as your historian guide shares captivating tales of Al Capone and the city’s infamous past. Explore haunted locations like the Palmer House and the Chicago Theatre, and hear eerie stories of spirits that linger in Death Alley and along the Chicago Riverwalk. This tour culminates at the Congress Hotel, renowned for its ghostly sightings, making it the perfect way to experience Chicago's haunted history at midnight. - Late-night Halloween walking tour through Chicago's South Loop, ending at midnight. - Hear true stories about notorious gangsters like Al Capone - Visit haunted spots including the Chicago Theatre and Palmer House - End your tour at the Congress Hotel, one of Illinois' most haunted locations

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Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Late Night Halloween Special

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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More than 100 years later, stories of Prohibition-era Chicago still capture the public’s imagination. But the portrayal of that era in popular culture isn't always accurate. On this tour, you’ll hear how the culture in turn-of-the-century Chicago helped bring about the 18th Amendment through stories of notorious vice districts along the Chicago River and the South Loop. We'll talk about the rise of Al Capone during the infamous “Beer Wars,” culminating in the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. Along the way, we’ll talk about how the city played a role in the popular and artistic growth of jazz, and how Chicago during the Roaring Twenties has been depicted on screen, in blockbusters such as "The Untouchables" and "Chicago." Please be advised that this tour contains stories of murder and sex work. Although children are welcome on this tour, parents should use their discretion in determining whether it is suitable for those under 15.

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Prohibition Chicago: Myth vs. Reality Walking Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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Chicago's Ultimate City Bike Tour of Top Downtown Attractions

3 hoursFree Cancellation

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This tour is ideal for first-time visitors or anyone eager to discover the city’s most iconic Top Attractions and Highlights on a guided Chicago Walking Tour. During this 2-hour Walking Tour of Chicago, stroll through downtown’s beautiful streets as expert local guides share rich history, colorful characters, and insider tips to enhance your list of Things to do in Chicago. Your experience includes a FREE 2-hour bike or kayak rental—bike the Lakefront Trail or kayak on Lake Michigan for unforgettable skyline views. Bobby’s Bike Hike tours are nationally recognized by National Geographic, USA Today, and Condé Nast Traveler for excellence in storytelling and urban exploration. You’ll see the landmarks that define Chicago: Millennium Park, the Chicago Riverwalk, the Wrigley Building, the Chicago Theatre, and the famed Magnificent Mile. Covering 1.5 miles (2.25 km) of easy, flat terrain, this tour offers a complete and memorable introduction to the city.

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Chicago Walking Tour of Highlights with Free Bike or Kayak Rental

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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Chicago dogs, deep-dish pizza, brownies, and craft beer are all sampled on this half-day bike tour through the Windy City. Cover about 13 miles (21 km), following your guide at a moderate pace through Chicago neighborhoods. On the day tour, ride through Wrigleyville, Old Town, Lincoln Park, and Gold Coast. On the night tour, visit Chicago’s Riverwalk, Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain and the Lakefront Trail. As you go, stop for generous food and beer tasters.

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Chicago Bike & Classic Food Tour: Bikes, Bites & Views - Adults

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

With this AI app, you're no longer restricted to crowded group tours or rigid scripts. Explore iconic Chicago sites like Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile—or dive deep into 1920s mobster hangouts and hidden Prairie Style masterpieces. Ask about literally anything that catches your eye—from a Gilded Age historic district to a secret jazz club or a towering steel-and-glass skyscraper. The Windy City's deepest secrets are entirely yours to uncover. Point & Discover: Snap a photo of any monument or museum masterpiece to instantly receive a captivating and accurate story. It’s like having a historian in your pocket! Ultimate Freedom: Navigate seamlessly with interactive map-based audio tours. Your schedule, your pace, your rules. Choose Your Vibe: Select a narrator persona that matches your style—from a deep-diving scholar to a fun companion for the kids. Get Started: 7 Days of Premium Access available instantly for iPhone and Android.

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Chicago and All MidWest Self Guided AI Audio Tours for 7 Days

7 daysFree Cancellation

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This is truly an experience like none other. It is combination of a historical walking tour of the Chicago Riverwalk and Yoga. It is a very non-traditional Yoga experience as we incorporate flows along the walking tour, in picturesque locations with beautiful views. No mats are necessary as we incorporate the surrounding elements of the Riverwalk, ie: benches, steps, and grassy lawns. A Fit Tour is the most unique way to "get your steps in" and actively engage with the surrounding city.

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Chicago River Yoga Walk Tour

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5% savings

from

$44$42

Member Pricing

Discover Chicago like never before with complete freedom to explore at your own rhythm, lingering at fascinating locations or moving swiftly through others as your interests guide you. Our expertly crafted audio experience unveils exclusive historical insights and hidden stories that even longtime residents don't know, transforming you from tourist to insider as you uncover the authentic soul of the Windy City. Unlike rigid group tours that rush you past remarkable details, you'll have the flexibility to choose which attractions captivate you most, creating a personalized journey that matches your curiosity and schedule perfectly. You'll experience the city as locals do – unhurried, authentic, and deeply connected to the stories that shaped this magnificent metropolis, all while enjoying a superior experience that combines the convenience of independence with the depth of expert knowledge.

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Chicago Self-Guided Audio Tour

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What are people saying about Chicago Riverwalk

Chicago River 90 Minute Architecture Tour

Veronica_B, Oct 2026

Wendella Tour

Enjoyed the tour. Friendly staff. Comfortable boat ride. Clean boat and tour guide was funny. Recommend.

Chicago River 90 Minute Architecture Tour

Francisco_P, Oct 2026

Best thing ever

It was amazing. Very informative So worth it. Very clean and easy on and off of boat. Staff was great

Chicago River 90 Minute Architecture Tour

Vern_W, Oct 2026

Architecture tour of Chicago

Great boat, great guide, beautiful city with a very interesting and colorful history. Boat was very clean and and had good refreshment options.

Chicago River 90 Minute Architecture Tour

Chanel_N, Sept 2026

Good

The narration and sights were great. The seats were so uncomfortable, I sat inside downstairs. The bathrooms were clean. Didn’t purchase anything on the boat but they had a full bar and items like sunscreen and rain covers.