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Chicago, IL

North America

United States

# Tours & Boats – Chicago Architecture Boat Tours, Scenic River Cruises, Family-Friendly Experiences, Knowledgeable Guides, Great Value Overview
Tours & Boats offers an engaging architecture boat tour experience in Chicago, IL, showcasing the city's stunning skyline and rich history. With a focus on informative and entertaining tours, this establishment has garnered positive reviews for its knowledgeable guides and scenic routes along the Chicago River. Founded with the vision of providing an immersive exploration of Chicago's architectural marvels, Tours & Boats has become a popular choice for both locals and visitors. The community appreciates the value and quality of the tours, often highlighting the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to learn about the city's unique structures while enjoying a relaxing boat ride.

## History
### The story of Tours & Boats
Tours & Boats was established with a mission to connect people with the architectural heritage of Chicago through guided boat tours. The founders aimed to create an educational yet enjoyable experience, allowing participants to appreciate the city's iconic buildings from a unique vantage point on the water. Over the years, the organization has built a reputation for excellence, attracting both tourists and locals eager to learn more about Chicago's architectural landscape.

### Milestones and growth
- Established as a premier boat tour provider in Chicago
- Expanded offerings to include various themed tours
- Gained recognition for quality service and knowledgeable guides
- Developed partnerships with local businesses and organizations
- Increased customer engagement through social media and online booking platforms

### Cultural and local influence
Tours & Boats has played a significant role in promoting Chicago's architectural identity. By providing accessible tours that highlight the city's diverse architectural styles, the organization fosters a deeper appreciation for local history and culture. The tours often incorporate stories of the city's development and its influential architects, making them valuable educational experiences for participants.

### Continuing the tradition
As Tours & Boats continues to grow, it remains committed to its founding vision of sharing Chicago's architectural beauty. The organization regularly updates its tour offerings to reflect new developments in the city and to incorporate feedback from participants. This dedication to quality ensures that each tour remains relevant and engaging, allowing the tradition of architectural exploration to thrive.

## Community
### Community involvement
Tours & Boats actively engages with the local community by participating in events and collaborating with other organizations. This involvement not only enhances the visibility of the tours but also strengthens community ties. By supporting local initiatives and hosting special events, Tours & Boats demonstrates its commitment to being a responsible and engaged member of the Chicago community.

### Community notion about the place
The local community views Tours & Boats as a valuable resource for exploring Chicago's architectural heritage. Many residents appreciate the opportunity to share the city's history with visitors, and the tours are often recommended as must-do experiences for those new to the area. The friendly and knowledgeable guides contribute to a positive perception, making the tours a beloved part of Chicago's cultural landscape.

### Events and gatherings
Tours & Boats frequently hosts special events and themed tours that cater to various interests. These events often attract diverse groups, including families, architecture enthusiasts, and tourists. By offering unique experiences, such as sunset cruises or holiday-themed tours, Tours & Boats fosters a sense of community and encourages participation from both locals and visitors.

## Offerings
### What Tours & Boats offers
Tours & Boats provides a variety of boat tours focused on Chicago's architecture, allowing participants to experience the city from a unique perspective. The tours are designed to be informative and enjoyable, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about the buildings and their historical significance. Additionally, the organization offers private charters for special occasions, making it a versatile option for different types of gatherings.

### Dining and food experience
While on board, guests can enjoy a selection of beverages and light snacks. The availability of a bar enhances the overall experience, allowing participants to sip on drinks as they take in the sights. This combination of scenic views and refreshments creates a relaxing atmosphere, making the tours suitable for both leisurely outings and educational experiences.

### Events and packages
Tours & Boats offers various packages tailored to different audiences, including family-friendly options and private charters for special events. These packages often include unique experiences, such as themed tours or exclusive access to certain areas along the river. By providing flexible options, Tours & Boats caters to a wide range of preferences and occasions.

- Private charters for events
- Themed tours for special occasions
- Family-friendly packages
- Educational tours for schools and groups

### Facilities and features
- Comfortable seating on the boat
- Onboard bar serving beverages
- Restrooms available on board
- Scenic views of Chicago's skyline
- Knowledgeable guides providing insights

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Tours & Boats highlight a mix of positive experiences and areas for improvement. Many participants praise the knowledgeable guides and the informative nature of the tours. However, some guests have noted issues with the booking process and the availability of time slots, indicating that improvements could be made in these areas.

### Compliments and strengths
- Knowledgeable and entertaining guides
- Scenic views of iconic architecture
- Engaging and informative tours
- Good value for the experience
- Positive atmosphere on board

### Contrasts and notable mentions
Some reviews mention challenges with the booking process, particularly regarding limited time slots. Additionally, there have been mixed experiences with customer service, with some guests reporting less-than-ideal interactions with staff. Despite these contrasts, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many guests expressing a desire to return for future tours.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Tours & Boats offers a valuable experience for those looking to explore Chicago's architectural heritage. While there are areas for improvement, the strengths of knowledgeable guides and engaging content make it a worthwhile option for both locals and visitors. The positive reviews and community support reflect the organization's commitment to providing quality tours.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Tours & Boats is located at 900 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, in the vibrant South Loop neighborhood. This area is known for its rich history and proximity to several cultural attractions, including the Museum Campus and the historic Chicago Stock Exchange. The location provides easy access to the Chicago River, making it an ideal starting point for architectural boat tours. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the city while also exploring nearby parks, restaurants, and other attractions that enhance their overall experience in Chicago.

## FAQs
**What types of tours are offered** Tours & Boats offers architecture-focused boat tours along the Chicago River.  
**Is there a bar on the boat** Yes, there is a bar serving beverages and light snacks on board.  
**How long do the tours last** The architecture boat tours typically last around 90 minutes.  
**Can I book a private tour** Yes, private charters are available for special events and gatherings.  
**What should I bring on the tour** It is recommended to bring sunscreen, hats, and water, especially during warmer months.  

## Visit Tours & Boats Today
Experience the beauty of Chicago's architecture with Tours & Boats, where knowledgeable guides lead you through the city's stunning skyline. With a commitment to community engagement and a focus on providing informative and enjoyable tours, this establishment is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore Chicago's rich history. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the friendly atmosphere and scenic views make for an unforgettable experience. Book your tour today and discover the architectural wonders of Chicago!

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We came for a trip and wanted to learn more about the architecture in Chicago. David was our tour guide and he was super knowledgeable! The tour was wealthy of engineering information. We left on time and came back as timed. It was great value for our group of 5

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This is my second time doing a boat tour in Chicago. The tour was great up until our tour guide Billy rudely told my wife and 2 year old to go down at the bottom of the boat because they were distracting. Sorry Billy, my toddler was being a toddler and making noises. I apologize my toddler didn't allow you to do your job correctly. Maybe you need to learn how to public speak while there are others talking. And next time keep your facial expressions to your self when you rudely ask someone to go downstairs because they are "distracting". For anyone that wants a better experience experience boat tour, I HIGHLY recommend Wendella Tours & Cruises. It was a way better experience. Plus the start and end boat dock is at the heart of the loop and riverwalk. This Tours & Boats Architecture tours was more than halfway south going towards Chinatown. Also, if you buy this from groupon, you are not guaranteed a seat. You're on standby until closer to the departure time.

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Good tour of Chicago building / architecture from the water. The guide Dave was funny and informative, and the duration of tour was just right. Only complaint is I wish there was more selection when booking the tour time. It feels like they only open up ONE time slot at a time, and open another when fill up the previous. We wanted to go in the afternoon but none was offered. But after we took our tour there was another group waiting to board in the afternoon.

80eeac2f-38b8-4d37-95ce-a2dbd5e3453b

When setting up my trip for Chicago- I knew I wanted to do a boat tour in the river. I came across this option via Groupon. It has very clear instructions and good parking. I was happy that it actually was close to where we were staying. The boat boarded on time. We started with some mimosas that we purchased at the bar on the boat. The bartender made them good which is mostly champagne with a splash of orange juice. We headed back upstairs and our tour began. Our guide David was amazing! He was so knowledgeable but he was also very funny. It was a beautiful day to be out on the river. We saw so much history and beautiful architecture. I would recommend 11/10! I wouldn't mind going back if in town again!

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We purchased Groupon tickets for the Architecture Boat Tour and was linked to Tours & Boats and we had a blast! Our tour guide was phenomenal! I didn't catch her name since we were sitting farther back, but she brought the energy and enthusiasm the entire 90 minutes that we were on the boat! Her knowledge of architecture and bridges were fascinating and you could tell she was really passionate about it which in turn made us excited to learn more. We went in the middle of July so it was HOT! Be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen and bring lots of water. They also have a bar on the deck level which also has A/C inside, but it takes forever to order something as the line is always long. There are bathrooms on the boat also. Be sure to arrive 15-30 min before docking as they will not wait for you. All in all, we had a fantastic time. It was a great way to spend an afternoon in Chicago and to learn more about the history behind this cool city. Would definitely do it again!

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Heath our tour guide on the 90 min architecture boat tour was very informative and also very funny! My girlfriends and I had such a good time learning about all the unique architecture Chicago has. This boat tour also departs in South Loop so we got to view the future site of The 78 which will house a soccer arena. I highly recommend this tour!

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Parking close at the dock - can also reserve on Spot Hero, Good tour discount for IL residents! Good for bringing visitors.

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Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour There is no shortage of boat tours along the Chicago River. You can easily book one online with many of the boat and cruise companies. We booked online five days in advance and glad we did because it was fully booked on day of tour. I thought the meeting place was at the Riverwalk but turned out it was somewhere 2 miles away from the Michigan Avenue Bridge. Ours was located in the River City Marina. There is a paid venue parking available which we reserved through ParkWhiz. This guided boat tour was enjoyable and very informative. It took us on the Chicago River covering all 3 branches of the river with our tour guide. Departure time was at 8:00p, make sure you arrive 30 min before. The boat picks up and drops off guests at the same location. I love Chicago's magnificent architecture. Our professional tour guide shared insights on well-known structures as we sailed down the Chicago River - the Marina City, Willis Tower, Wrigley Building, Aqua Tower, Trump Tower, Boeing and United Airlines Buildings... he even showed us the former national headquarters for Montgomery Wards which are now a mixed-use space with different businesses and residences and once home to Groupon's global headquarters (they are now on W Wacker Drive). The old Montgomery Ward building is a large historic complex that was once the mail-order and department store HQ. Remember those big catalogs you find in your mailbox? LoL! We witnessed a beautiful sunset when our tour boat reached this area. I lost count while sailing underneath the many bridges in Chicago but I did notice the different bridge houses that are located near a moveable bridge. Chicago has the most movable bridges of any city in the world. This was one of the best tours we've experienced in a relaxed pace of the boat gliding by Chicago's famous architecture. Recommended! Review #3830

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While in Chicago for a friend's birthday weekend we decided to do the boat tours. David was our tour guys. He was amazing and knowledgeable. You can tell he is passionate and knows alot about the architecture as well as the history. There is a bar on the boat so we got mimosas while on the boat tour. The boarding process was easy and the parking was close to the boat.

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Definitely a nice surprise. The tour team are amazing. The boat has no bad seat. If you planning on taking a tour....MUST USE THEM.

Discover Tours & Boats in Chicago, IL for unforgettable dining experiences on the water. Book now and enjoy a unique culinary adventure in the Windy City.

Tours & Boats in Chicago - Unique Waterfront Experience

Chicago

Tours & Boats

Illinois

Discover Tours & Boats in Chicago at 900 S Wells St. Enjoy unforgettable waterway tours, scenic sightseeing, and fun boat experiences. Book your adventure now!

Tours & Boats in Chicago - Unique Waterway Adventures & Sightseeing

Learn about Tours & Boats in Chicago, your go-to for exciting waterway tours, scenic cruises, and memorable boat experiences at 900 S Wells St. Explore more today!

About Tours & Boats, Chicago - Your Water Adventure Experts

Opening hours for Tours & Boats, Chicago. Find opening hours for Tours & Boats, Chicago at 900 S Wells St and plan your water adventure today.

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