---
title: Lake and River Architecture Boat Tour
slug: chicago-lake-river-architecture-boat-tour
type: attraction
sub_type: sightseeing cruises
source_url: https://www.tripster.com/detail/chicago-lake-river-architecture-boat-tour
city: Chicago
state: IL
country: US
address: 400 N Michigan Ave.
geo:
  lat: 41.88928
  lng: -87.62477
duration: up to 1.5 hrs
cancellation_policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
extracted_at: 2026-06-16T17:25:24.815Z
price_from:
  amount: 41
  currency: USD
  unit: per_adult
availability: InStock
ticket_options:
  - group: Other Options
    options:
      - name: 90-Minute Lake & River Architecture Cruise
        price: 41
        regular_price: 45
        savings: 4
        ticket_types:
          - name: Adult (13+ yrs)
            min_age: 13
          - name: Child (4-12 yrs)
            min_age: 4
            max_age: 12
          - name: Infant (0-3 yrs)
            min_age: 0
            max_age: 3
---
## Overview
Wendella's Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour offers a 90-minute guided boat cruise with expert narration, showcasing more than 50 landmarks along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, including skyline views from an open-air upper deck and indoor seating.

## What's Included
- 90-minute guided architecture boat tour on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan
- Expert narration by local architecture guides
- Access to indoor seating and open-air upper deck
- Onboard amenities including ADA-compliant restrooms and a full-service bar (drinks and snacks available for purchase)

## What's Not Included
- Food and beverages (available for purchase onboard)
- Transportation to and from the dock

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

- **90-Minute Lake & River Architecture Cruise** — $41.00 (regularly $45.00, save $4.00)
  See Chicago's skyline from both the river and lake on this 90-minute architecture cruise. Includes expert narration, 50+ landmark views, and access through the Chicago Lock to Lake Michigan. Indoor and outdoor seating available.
  - Adult (13+ yrs)
  - Child (4-12 yrs)
  - Infant (0-3 yrs)

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

## Good to Know
* Cruise departs from Wendella's dock at 400 N Michigan Ave near the Wrigley Building
* Boarding begins 15 minutes before departure; arrive 30 minutes early for check-in
* Tour runs rain or shine; dress for lakefront weather
* All bags are screened; no outside alcohol or weapons allowed
* The vessel features an open-air upper deck and a climate-controlled interior
* Views and timing may vary slightly depending on lock operations or water levels
* Light jackets, sunglasses, and hats are recommended
* Tour is family-friendly; children under 4 sail free but all passengers require a ticket
* Wendella's West Dock is ADA accessible via elevator; wheelchair-accessible ramps lead to the boat's main deck
* Only service animals trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability are permitted; pets and emotional support animals are not allowed

## Cancellation Policy
Free Cancellation

## FAQs

### Where does the cruise depart from?
The boat departs from Wendella's dock at 400 N Michigan Avenue, near the Wrigley Building at the northwest corner of the DuSable (Michigan Avenue) Bridge.

### When should I arrive?
Guests should arrive 30 minutes early for check-in. Boarding typically begins 15 minutes prior to departure.

### How long is the tour?
This guided cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes.

### What’s included in my ticket?
Your ticket includes a 90-minute guided architecture cruise on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Enjoy expert narration from a local guide, access to indoor and outdoor seating, and onboard amenities such as ADA-compliant restrooms. Food and beverages are available for purchase but are not included in the ticket price.

### Is transportation to and from the dock included?
No, transportation to and from the dock is not included with your ticket. Guests are responsible for their own travel to the departure point at 400 N Michigan Avenue. The dock is easily accessible by public transit, rideshare, or nearby parking garages.

### Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, but with some limitations. Wendella's West Dock is ADA accessible via elevator from Michigan Avenue (between 400–410 N Michigan Avenue) or Wabash Avenue (401 N Wabash). At river level, wheelchair-accessible ramps lead to and from the boat's main deck. Call the number on your e-ticket in advance to confirm boarding arrangements and ensure a smooth experience.

### Where can I park nearby?
You can park at the InterPark Parking Lot (430 N Rush Street), AMA Plaza Garage (401 N State Street), or Trump Tower Garage (401 North Wabash Avenue). You can also use the SpotHero app to find and reserve parking nearby. Parking fees apply.

### Are pets allowed on the tour?
Only service animals trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability are permitted; pets and emotional support animals are not allowed.

### Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, the cruise is family-friendly and children under 4 sail free. All passengers, regardless of age, must have a ticket to board.

### Can I take photos during the cruise?
Absolutely. The upper deck offers panoramic views ideal for skyline snapshots.