Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours - Chicago, Illinois

William B. (.

On a nasty day, this tour was a ray of sunshine. The guide was funny and extremely knowledgeable. I learned many facts, both fun and architectural.

The boat is lovely. It was pouring rain, so I spent sometime inside of the boat as well as the outside lower deck which was protected by an overhang.

My only critique is that they checked my ticket like four times, which felt excessive. They also did not have protection from the rain while waiting to board the ship. In any case, I think this is a great tour for visitors. Even better in the nice weather, or at night!

Alexa F.

We had an excellent time on the Secret Interiors tour. Our guide was extremely knowledgable, and it was a delight to see the hidden gems in buildings we'd typically pass by without second thought. The tour was a great lesson of architecture and its influence on Chicago history; of the tours I've attended, this was by far my favorite!

Jean B.

I would absolutely recommend Chicago's Secret Interiors Architectural Tour to everyone, whether you're a tourist or a Chicago native! My husband and I live out of state now, but are originally from Chicago. We have taken multiple tours in the city, but this is the first that gave us entry into the fabulous interiors of the downtown area! The interiors may even eclipse the exteriors in some of these buildings! Our tour guide, Grant, was excellent. He was well informed and his stories were great. We come back to Chicago and bring our good friends and "travel buddies" to tour with us frequently, and there were several stories I had never heard at all. Grant had a good sense of humor, kept our group together and paced well, and invited questions - all of which he could answer. At the end of the tour he sent each of us a list of recommendations on "things to do" and places to eat in the city. Highly recommend this as a "must do" in Chicago.

Christina H.

I absolutely loved my experience on the Architecture Boat Tour! Our guide was a self-proclaimed "nerd" when it comes to this sort of stuff, and really went out of his way to give us the history and depth of the different buildings and styles used throughout the city's buildings found along the way. Plus, the sights were absolutely breathtaking. I would recommend this tour in a heart beat! My only advice is that if you're traveling during the colder months, be sure to bundle up with plenty of layers!

Alyssa C.

Took the Secret Interiors walking tour with Avery and really enjoyed ourselves. A great walk through the heart of the city, and a chance to see the interiors of some beautiful and controversial historic buildings we wouldn’t have known to look for or to enter otherwise. Ended the tour in the truly stunning Chicago Cultural Center, pictured.

Robert L.

Excellent tour! My family has rode nearly every company that floats the river. These guys were my favorite, thus far. Not the most comfortable seats, but the tour guide was phenomenal. Lots of facts on the architects and their history. Was a smaller boat, which i enjoyed as well. Was able to hear the gentleman from anywhere on the boat. Highly recommend. Love the port it takes out of as well. That area is a gem in downtown Chicago.

Teresa D.

An extremely knowledgeable tour guide who did a wonderful job sharing information with key landmarks along the way. Crew was welcoming and kind, even went above their way to locate and return something that was dropped before I got on the boat. Smaller, more historical boat added to the intimate experience. Highly recommend!

Charles P. R.

This tour was spectacular with breathtaking taking views of Chicago's skyline. Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, comedic, and a great host! We learned a number of new facts about Chicago, the architecture, Ms. Oleary's infamous cow and the lock and how the river flows through this grand city. I would highly encourage anyone interested in Chicago to take this tour. ❤️ it!!!