Chicago History and Architecture Tour

Explore Chicago’s history and architecture with a walking tour and boat cruise. Discover hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and savor local flavors.

Duration: 3 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights

Cloud Gate - Cloud Gate, also known as “The Bean,” is a public sculpture by artist Anish Kapoor located in Millennium Park in Chicago. Made of polished stainless steel, it reflects the city’s skyline and the surrounding park, creating a captivating and interactive visual experience. Since its unveiling in 2006, it has become an iconic symbol of Chicago.

What's Included
  • All fees and/or taxes
  • Guide
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities (Optional)
Additional Information

Discover the essence of the Windy City starting at Millennium Park, where the renowned Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) resides, and wander through vibrant gardens and captivating public art. Explore the secret treasures of the Chicago Pedway, then step out onto the picturesque Chicago Riverwalk for panoramic views of the skyline.
Proceed along the Magnificent…

Location
McCormick Tribune Plaza
North Michigan Avenue
McCormick Tribune Plaza - 1 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60602, United States (In front of the Park Grill)
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.7
(9 Ratings)
5 stars
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1 star
Kenya_h
Sep 21, 2025
Great Experience - Andrew was a great guide. The weather wasn't the best but we still powered through. Got some amazing historical information that I had no idea about. It's just really informative and interesting.
Review provided by Viator
K4773czchristineb
Sep 15, 2025
Fantastic Tour - Andrew's tour was excellent, made even better by his unique historical connection to the city through his own life and ancestry. I particularly loved the walking portion and wish it could have been extended. I felt I gained so much more from his storytelling on foot than I did on the boat tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Missyr72
Jul 9, 2025
Great tour! Well worth the time and money! - This tour was wonderful. It was the perfect blend of history, architecture, and fun. Andrew was a gem of knowledge!! His family history is incredible and full of generations of Chicago titans in industry. It was intriguing to see how the city of Chicago was built on the brilliant minds of the industiralists and the strong shoulders of the men and women who immigrated there. Finishing with the boat tour was a welcomed respite from the heat. Andrew was very consciencious of making sure we took breaks and stayed cool or hydrated. I liked his flexibility. Know what you want to see- he aims to please! Overall, we had an incredible time!! I highly recommend this tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Melissa_r
Jul 9, 2025
Excellent tour- full of fun facts and history - What a wonderful, intimate, tour this was. Andrew was a phenomenal guide- full of information, historical interest and personal charm. I learned so much about the city that I had never known before (even after living here for 6 years). My girlfriends were first-timers to Chicago and found his depth of knowledge intriguing. He was so professional and caring- checking in often to make sure the heat wasn't too much for each of us. We had a grand time! Then, the boat tour that finished off our day was a delight (and a welcomed respite from the heat). This tour is worth every penny. Bring your walking shoes and dress appropriately... but get ready to learn, laugh and enjoy!
Review provided by Viator
Pamv697
May 17, 2025
This tour is A MUST!! - Had a great time with Andrew on our tour! We explored downtown chicago, appreciated the city’s architecture and learn so much. I HIGHLY recommend!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Daralynn_v
Oct 20, 2024
Wonderful - The beautiful weather made our experience so nice, but having a private tour by chance really let us ask questions and see everything at our pace.
Review provided by Viator
Sofiamw2277ax
Aug 24, 2024
Informative history of Chicago industry - My daughter and I had a wonderful time. Andrew was very knowledgeable and had a deep understanding of the economy and industry history of Chicago. We were hungry and he adjusted his tour so that we could eat at a local place. He also gave good advice about getting around town. Highly recommended!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Maria_p
Jul 12, 2025
Getting to know Chicago - Very informative, lots of walking, Andrew is very knowledgeable and polite, will ask you if you need to stop and rest anytime you want
Review provided by Viator
Kent_s
May 28, 2025
Walking portion was a... - Walking portion was acceptable, guide was knowledgeable but got a little too personal. More focused on his family history than the city. Boat tour was fantastic, but getting checked in was lengthy and confusing as the harbor personnel did not recognize one ticket for both walking and boat tour. Boat tour staff did not know how to check us in. Would recommend boat tour, but buy tickets at Navy Pier. Skip walking portion.
Review provided by Viator
From $104
up to 10 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).