Top Chicago Architecture Tours

About 60 million people visit Chicago every year, in part because of the city’s renowned architecture. According to traveler reviews, these are the best architecture tours in town:

• Chicago Architecture River Cruise
• Chicago River 90-Minute History and Architecture Tour
• Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady
• Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
• Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

The typical architecture tour in Chicago is a 90-minute daytime cruise along the Chicago River, and generally costs between US$35 to US$50 per person. River cruises that also include lunch begin around US$75, while walking architecture tours tend to start at US$35 per head.

Most Chicago architecture tours run for around 90 minutes, about the time it takes to cruise the Chicago River from Navy Pier, past the city’s famous riverside skyscrapers, and back. Some express tours, which last closer to 45 minutes, are also available, and are a great choice for families with young children and travelers on tight schedules.

Chicago architecture tours almost always include live narration that covers the city’s architectural history, and offers a crash course on the Windy City’s most recognizable buildings. Some cruises and walking tours may also include lunch or snacks. Restrooms and luggage storage aren’t always available, so check with tour operators for more specifics.

On a Chicago architecture tour, you can look forward to seeing dozens of landmark, internationally renowned buildings, from early skyscrapers such as the Home Insurance Building and the Tribune Tower to the record-breaking heights of the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) and the twin corncobs of the Marina City buildings.

After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 destroyed most of the city’s downtown, famed architects rebuilt the city’s skyline, giving rise to the world’s first skyscraper and, soon, one of the most architecturally diverse city centers on the globe. Art deco, neoclassical, and Gothic revival structures stand next to sleek skyscrapers, reflecting Chicago’s uniquely varied design heritage.

Chicago architecture tour prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now: 

• Eastside Chicago The Heist Exploration Game and Tour
• Chicago Self-Guided Audio Tour
• Chicago Riverwalk Self-Guided Walking Tour
• Explore the Historic Old Post Office in Chicago
• Frank Lloyd Wright Robie House Admission

As there are a wide range of Chicago architecture tours available, it’s best to do some research, and find an excursion that suits your preferences. Some tours are conducted on foot, while others are by boat or bus. Also, consider whether you want an overview of the city’s architecture or to focus on a specific building or design movement. If you have any physical limitations, check ahead to see how much walking is required.

Take a Chicago architecture tour between April and October to see the city at its best. While Chicago’s architecture is fascinating year-round, winter can be cold and outdoor tours aren’t as appealing in negative temperatures. Pick a day with good weather if your architecture tour is on foot or by boat.

That depends on the experience you’re after. River cruises are a gentle way to travel: All you need to do is sit back, relax, and take in the views and the history as you glide past dozens of riverside skyscrapers. Walking tours are a good choice for visitors after a more detailed, close-up context on individual buildings, architects, and design movements. As a bonus, some walking tours also visit building interiors.

That depends. While architecture cruises typically depart throughout the day, and can be booked relatively last-minute, it may still be worth booking ahead to secure your preferred date and time. Popular tours, especially during the spring and summer months, can sell out, while walking tours often have less availability than river cruises.

Yes, Chicago architecture tours are definitely worth it, and are widely considered a Windy City must-do. Particularly for first-time travelers, they offer an accessible introduction to the city’s top landmarks and tourist attractions. Boat tours are often an efficient (yet relaxing) way to explore, while walking tours provide up-close views with engaging historical commentary.

Most Chicago River architecture cruises depart from a handful of centrally located meeting points, such as Navy Pier or the Chicago Riverwalk. Walking and bus tours also typically depart from easily accessible designated meeting points in downtown Chicago. As departure points vary by operator, just be sure to check your specific tour listing (and arrive early).

Yes, many Chicago architecture tours are good for families visiting with kids. Shorter 45-minute cruises are ideal for those with young children and travelers on tight schedules, while longer 90-minute tours offer more in-depth commentary. Note that some walking tours cover more distance than little legs can easily handle, so check specific tour details when booking.