All Chicago Tours &amp; Excursions in 2026 - page 3

Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise

Uncover the best of Chicago on an unforgettable highlights tour designed for travelers, sightseers, and history lovers alike! Step off the bus to admire Frank Lloyd Wright’s lobby inside The Rookery, take in dramatic sights at Buckingham Fountain, capture panoramic skyline photos at Museum Campus, and marvel at Millennium Park’s famous Bean and Crown Fountain. Along the way, take in views of Willis Tower, the Chicago Board of Trade, the luxury shops of The Magnificent Mile, historic Gold Coast brownstones, and Lincoln Park’s scenic overlooks, all while learning the dramatic stories and famous movie history (Home Alone 2, The Untouchables) behind the Windy City's greatest landmarks. Upgrade your experience to include the world-renowned 75-minute Architectural River Cruise! Please note, infants 0-3 years old must sit on a lap.

Luxury Minibus Chicago City Tour with Architecture Cruise Upgrade

Chicago Architecture and True Crime: Halloween Edition

1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutesFree Cancellation

Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Mexico with a hands-on cooking class at Su Casa Mexican Restaurant. Guided by experienced chefs, participants will learn the art of crafting authentic tamales and tacos from scratch. This class is tailored for all skill levels, making it an ideal setting for food enthusiasts eager to enhance their culinary repertoire. As you knead, roll, and fill your creations, anticipate the rewarding moment of tasting your delicious handiwork, complemented by chips, salsa, and a refreshing drink.

Tamales and Tacos with Margarita Cooking Class at Su Casa

Chicago Crime, Mobsters & Ghosts Walking Tour

1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hoursFree Cancellation

See the towers, piers and iconic landmarks along the Chicago River on an architectural cruise through the heart of the city. Enjoy complimentary refreshments on deck as you cruise down the historic waterway, while listening to fun stories and facts throughout the tour. Spot gargoyles that keep watch high above the city, and buildings that range from Neoclassical to Art Deco. Take in over fifty sites from Lake Point Tower to the Navy Pier, and see the Second City from the water.

Chicago Architectural River Cruise

Discover one of Chicago’s top architectural marvels when you explore Frank Lloyd Wright’s UNESCO-listed Frederick C. Robie House, located right on the University of Chicago’s campus. Considered a masterpiece of Prairie School architecture, the building is famed for its cantilevered roof and rich wood details. Save money when you book tickets to the house in advance; call ahead to reserve a space on one of the museum’s frequent, small-group public tours.

Frank Lloyd Wright Robie House Admission

1 hourFree Cancellation

Skip navigating around the city with a map and guidebook and explore Chicago's iconic landmarks in just a few hours on this sightseeing tour led by an expert guide. Board a comfortable, large-windowed minibus and explore Downtown and North Side neighborhoods, stopping to 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.

Chicago City Tour with Architecture River Cruise Option

2 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

Sit back and take in some magic—and enjoy a one-of-a-kind night on the town—during this engaging Chicago show. Show up a few minutes before curtain time to get the best possible seat and start sipping the drinks you brought. Cups and bottle openers are available for your use. Buying your tickets in advance means less waiting for entry; you'll be sure to get the day and time you that fits your schedule.

Trickery Chicago Magic Show

Paint your own street art at Studio WIP

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.

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

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Likely to Sell Out

Enjoy the opportunity to go behind-the-scenes at one of the Windy City's most storied venues on this insider tour of the Chicago Theater. Let your guide lead the way, as you hear about the theater's architecture, history, and famous performers throughout the years. Stand on the famed stage and take in the atmosphere, and see artist signatures from notable performers, including Frank Sinatra and Dolly Parton. A great activity for fans of music and live performance.

The Chicago Theatre Tour Experience

1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes

4.0

(58)

from $32

Zoom along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, zipping past famous landmarks as you go, during this exhilarating speedboat ride in Chicago. Climb aboard your 2,000-horsepower speed boat at Navy Pier, then hang on for the ride of a lifetime, as you zip past famous attractions like the Willis Tower, Grant Park, and Buckingham Fountain, pausing to learn a little about the history and architecture of the Windy City along the way.

Lake Michigan 30 Minute Speedboat Ride

30 minutesFree Cancellation

Get an insider's introduction to Chicago's most celebrated buildings during this architecture-focused walking tour of Michigan Avenue, State Street, and the vibrant Loop area. Revisit the heyday of the skyscraper and visit stunning, art deco-era interiors, from the Palmer House Hotel to the Chicago Cultural Center. Admission to the Chicago Architecture Center is included, with an introduction by the docent.

Chicago Walking Tour: Historic Treasures of Chicago

Sample some of the Windy City's tastiest donuts—and head to locals-loved dessert destinations that most visitors miss—on this one-of-a-kind walking tour. With your guide in the lead, head to a number of Chicago’s tastiest donut bakeries, all while exploring the city's vibrant downtown Loop neighborhood. All tastings are included in the tour cost, and vegan, gluten-, and nut-free options are also available upon request.

Chicago's Delicious Downtown Donut Tour with 8 Amazing Tastings

Discover iconic Chicago movie locations with a private tour, including transportation and hotel pickup and drop-off. Visit the Home Alone house exterior, Wrigley Field exterior (Ferris Bueller's Day Off), the Chicago Board of Trade exterior (The Dark Knight), Union Station's staircase (The Untouchables), and Millennium Park's Cloud Gate (Source Code). Enjoy a seamless and comfortable experience exploring these famous sites.

Chicago Movie Locations Tour

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

Enjoy waterfront views of downtown Chicago on a 2-hour brunch cruise through the heart of the city. Board a luxurious yacht at Navy Pier then relax on deck with a complementary mimosa. Find a comfortable spot on the three climate-controlled observation decks, and enjoy a sumptuous buffet while the onboard DJ spins a leisurely afternoon playlist. Capture unforgettable images of downtown skyscrapers and architectural landmarks as you navigate along the historic shoreline, then loop back and finish your outing at the bustling Navy Pier.

City Cruises Chicago: Premier Lake Michigan Brunch Cruise

3.9

(33)

from $105

This walking tour is a feast for the eyes, combining art, architecture, and history as you navigate through bustling downtown Chicago. In a small group, you’ll marvel at skyscrapers and mosaic murals as you discover stories and secrets about the city’s past. See the stunning interiors and exteriors of noteworthy buildings and leave with a comprehensive understanding of the city’s downtown.

Walkin' with Colin: Chicago History-Mystery-Comedy-Tragedy Tour

Walkin' with Colin: Chicago History-Mystery-Comedy-Tragedy Tour

The Field Museum of Natural History is one of Chicago’s most-visited museums—and this package deal offers a way to beat the crowds and see its top exhibitions without stress. Secure your tickets before you travel, arrive an hour before the galleries open to the public, and explore in the company of a museum docent. You’ll see collection highlights like Sue the Tyrannosaurus Rex, the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet, and much more.

Field Museum of Natural History Early Access Ticket

2 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

Haunted Chicago: Crime, Ghosts, and Capone Walking Tour

Discover the architectural soul of Chicago on a thoughtfully curated half-day city tour. Travel through the city’s most influential districts, from historic riverfront landmarks to groundbreaking modern skyscrapers. Explore the Loop’s civic, financial, and architectural core, admire world-renowned towers, and experience Chicago’s most celebrated public spaces. This small-group tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Chicago’s skyline, history, and urban design, concluding with a panoramic skyline view before returning guests to the original pickup point. Ideal for first-time visitors and architecture enthusiasts alike. Explore Chicago’s iconic riverfront skyscrapers and historic bridges See legendary architecture including Willis Tower and Marina City Discover the heart of Chicago’s financial, civic, and architectural power Pass by Millennium Park and spend time at Cloud Gate (The Bean) Enjoy a panoramic Chicago skyline view, included for all guests

BEST of Chicago Landmarks and Skyline Small Group City Tour

Stroll through Chicago's winter streets, lit up for the holidays, without the hassle of navigating the city yourself on this gourmet walking tour. Learn about Chicago's celebrated holiday traditions like the European-inspired Christkindlmarket, the beautiful decor and windows on State Street, and ice skating at Millennium Park. Sample generous tastes of classic Chicago foods and holiday treats as you walk.

Chicago-Style Holiday Hike: Festive Food and Walking Tour

Chicago's Ultimate City Bike Tour of Top Downtown Attractions

Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour

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Must-Dos in Chicago

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What are people saying about Chicago

Karol_B, Sept 2026

Great tour. Your Master...

Great tour. Your Master of Ceremonies provide historical information which brought the tour to life. We would encourage anyone considering to board the tour....DO IT! You wont be disappointed. As an aside, has Viator ever considered recording the narrative, and making the recording available to tourists? There was so much information/historical details about the buildings, it was a hard to keep up while looking at the buildings. I think it would be great if there was a recoding available that I could access/buy to go along with my photos.

Chicago By Night River and Lake Cruise

Daleisha_H, Sept 2026

First boat ride

We really had a wonderful time and the scenery OMG absolutely beautiful. The only thing I would suggest is that you either take a small blanket with you or simply dress for the weather. Although they do have an area where you can sit inside and warm up, but to enjoy the full experience and the view definitely sit up top.

Flyover in Chicago

Angela_S, Sept 2026

Flying rollercoaster of fun around downtown Chicago

If you’re good with heights and motion, it is an AMAZING experience and way to see downtown Chicago. I recommend doing Flyover after you’ve been around downtown. day or two so you recognize some of the buildings as you fly. The one thing that would make it better is if they had a little better customer service and communicated about the number of stairs or even verbally offered an elevator option instead of just ushering everyone to the stairs. There are already a lot of stairs in Chicago so taking what seemed like 2-3 flights of stairs (as in going down to the L) was a surprise. The ride made up for this. It was so cool to fly all around the riverfront and downtown area. At one point, I put my hands in the air because it felt like we were on a rollercoaster drop. So much fun!

Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise

Jack_H, Sept 2026

The best part of Chicago

We did a tour guided by Cole yesterday and he did a fantastic job. His energy kept the tour entertaining and upbeat. You obtained a great deal of history involving the water system, the architecture and more while enjoying all the wonderful views. We had the option of sitting inside or outside. We also enjoyed some beverages from the bar and the bartender was also pleasant. I highly recommend the boat tour when you visit Chicago.

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Miriah_O, Sept 2026

great experience, enjoyed...

great experience, enjoyed the tour and gabby was great with how she explained everything. didn’t miss a beat. it was full, would say get there a little early to get your seat but everyone i super helpful. have your ticket loaded before checking in as it may take a minute.

Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

Su_O, Sept 2026

Best Crime Tour in Town

Our first time in Chicago and my daughter really wanted to see the crime tour. We had an amazing time driving thru Chicago and listing to the stories. We stopped in 3 locations and was able to get out of the bus and explore. See the actual "crime scene" We did it on Sunday morning, so traffic and places were not as crowded. TOTALLY WORTH IT

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady

Michael_B, Sept 2026

Chicago Architectural Center River Cruise aboard the First Lady

We found the Chicago Architectural Center River Cruise aboard the First Lady to be the best way to view Chicago's stunning and historic architecture for the vantage point of the Chicago River. The narration was provided by a knowledgeable, volunteer docent, who gave a credible and factually accurate commentary. Although the boat is multilevel, the tour is conducted from the open-air, top deck. The audio is also played inside on the main deck; however, the interior deck lacks the visual vantage perspectives. The tour occurs rain or shine, so plan accordingly. Great value for the money

Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

Katherin_A, Sept 2026

Amazing Architecture Tour with Great Views! 🏙️🚤

I really enjoyed this boat tour! Everything was very well organized, and the boat was comfortable with plenty of space to move around. You can sit inside in the shade, stay outside, or go upstairs to the second level for a great view. Our guide was excellent and shared a lot of interesting information about Chicago’s architecture and history. There are also drinks and snacks available on board, and the bathrooms were very clean. The boat left right on time, which was great. Definitely worth doing while visiting Chicago!

Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

cyngrimm2, Aug 2026

The key is the tour guide

We went on the architectural tour, and our tour guide was Kenny. He did an amazing job, so if you can get him as your tour guide, I highly recommend him! It was raining when we started, but thankfully it cleared up and turned into a beautiful day. We absolutely loved the tour! I would definitely recommend it—it’s such a great experience and a wonderful way to see and learn about the city.