---
title: Architecture River Tour from Michigan Avenue
slug: chicago-architecture-river-cruise-from-michigan-avenue
type: attraction
sub_type: cruises
source_url: https://www.tripster.com/detail/chicago-architecture-river-cruise-from-michigan-avenue
city: Chicago
state: IL
country: US
address: 401 N Michigan Avenue
geo:
  lat: 41.88937
  lng: -87.62283
duration: up to 1.2 hrs
cancellation_policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
extracted_at: 2026-06-16T17:24:42.801Z
price_from:
  amount: 40.6
  currency: USD
  unit: per_adult
availability: InStock
rating:
  value: 5
  count: 3
  scale: 5
ticket_options:
  - group: Other Options
    options:
      - name: 75-Minute Architecture Tour from Michigan Avenue
        price: 40.6
        regular_price: 46
        savings: 5.4
        ticket_types:
          - name: Adult (12+ yrs)
            min_age: 12
          - name: Child (3-11 yrs)
            min_age: 3
            max_age: 11
          - name: Infant (0-2 yrs)
            min_age: 0
            max_age: 2
---
## Overview

The 75-minute Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour from Michigan Avenue cruises through all three branches of the Chicago River, passing over 40 landmarks like the John Hancock Center and Wrigley Building, with expert guides sharing insights on the city's skyline.

## What's Included
- 75-minute guided boat tour along the Chicago River
- Expert, knowledgeable guide sharing architectural and engineering stories
- Views of over 40 iconic Chicago buildings and landmarks

## What's Not Included
- Drinks and small snacks, which are available for purchase on board by credit card only

<!-- tripster:ticket-options:start -->
## Ticket Options

- **75-Minute Architecture Tour from Michigan Avenue** — $40.60 (regularly $46.00, save $5.40)
  Set sail from Michigan Avenue, just steps from the Magnificent Mile, for a 75-minute guided tour. See over 40 landmarks such as the Tribune Tower and Marina City and listen to the captivating history of Chicago's architectural marvels from an entertaining guide.
  - Adult (12+ yrs)
  - Child (3-11 yrs)
  - Infant (0-2 yrs)

<!-- tripster:ticket-options:end -->

## Good to Know
* Enjoy stunning views of over 40 iconic Chicago buildings and landmarks, including the Tribune Tower, Wrigley Building, and Marina City.  
* Led by a knowledgeable and entertaining guide, you'll learn about Chicago’s architectural and engineering marvels.  
* This river boat tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.  
* Children age 2 and under are free, but please select a ticket for them even though they are free.  
* The tour is dog-friendly, too. Please note that dogs must remain on a leash throughout the tour.  
* Located steps away from Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, Shoreline Sightseeing's Michigan Avenue dock is the perfect starting point for your tour.  
* Drinks and small snacks items are available for purchase on board. Purchases are available by credit card only.  

## Cancellation Policy

Free Changes & Cancellations. See details upon selection.

## FAQs

### Where does the tour depart from?

The tour departs from Shoreline Sightseeing's Michigan Avenue dock located just steps from Chicago's Magnificent Mile at 401 Michigan Ave.

### When should I arrive?

Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.

### Where does the Architecture River Tour go?

The Architecture River Tour cruises down the main branch of the Chicago River, up the north branch to the East Bank Club, and then south past the Willis (Sears) Tower to the old Post Office Building. A knowledgeable and entertaining guide will provide detailed descriptions of over 40 landmark buildings as you cruise along.

### How long is the Architecture River Tour?

This guided boat tour lasts approximately 75 minutes.

### Are children allowed on the river Tour?

Yes! This is a family friendly tour and children under the age of 3 can join free of charge.

### Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Architecture River Tours from Shoreline Sightseeing's Michigan Avenue dock are not wheelchair accessible. There are two full flights of stairs for entry and exit.

### What happens if it rains?

The tour schedule depends on the weather. The tour will usually sail during the summer, though bad weather could result in a reduced schedule. The captain will decide whether conditions are unsafe, and they have discretion to delay or cancel the cruise accordingly.

### Are there restrooms on the tour boats?

Yes, the tour boats have onboard restrooms.

### How many people will the boat fit?

The vessel can accommodate anywhere from 150 to 260 passengers.

## Reviews

> "Fantastic Tour"
> — Tripster Customer, May 2026

> "Great experience"
> — Ricardo De Oliveira Vieira, September 2025

> "Very easy process to book"
> Tip: It was a very hot day, so sitting up top (where most of the seats are) can be hot. There is a bar with refreshments on the lower deck.
> — Anthony Flaminio, July 2025