Chicago River Guided History Tour – Discover Chicago’s Past and Landmarks
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Experience Chicago from a whole new angle with the BYOB Chicago River Guided History Tour. This 120-minute boat journey takes you along the iconic Chicago River, revealing stories and landmarks that shaped the city’s vibrant history.
From the city’s transformation from swamp land to a bustling metropolis, to the dramatic Great Chicago Fire of 1871, this tour brings history to life. You’ll hear tales of infamous gangsters, the 1893 World's Fair, and the engineering marvel of the Chicago River reversal—all while enjoying a relaxed cruise on the water.
Board the Party Barge, a unique vessel with a bar, coolers, and plenty of space to soak in the sights. Bring your favorite drinks (no glass) and snacks to enjoy as you learn about Chicago’s past and see its most famous sites from the river. It’s a fun, educational way to experience the Windy City’s story firsthand.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the tour?
The BYOB Chicago River Guided History Tour lasts approximately 2 hours.
What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, and the tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
What’s included in the tour?
You’ll receive coolers with ice and a knowledgeable local guide. Please note drinks and snacks are not provided but are welcome onboard.
Can I bring my own drinks?
Absolutely. The cruise is BYOB—just remember, no glass bottles, please.
Are there any stops during the tour?
No, the tour is a continuous 120-minute cruise along the Chicago River, passing by key landmarks and sites.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 2 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Coolers and Ice
- Local knowledgeable guide
Not included
- Drinks (bring your own, no glass please)
- Snacks or food (bring your own onboard)
Itinerary
A scenic 120-minute cruise along the Chicago River, passing historic sites, landmarks, and stories that highlight the city’s rich past.
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Stop 1
Board the Party Barge at the Chicago Riverwalk between LaSalle and Wells bridges. The boat features a u-shaped bar, seating, bathroom, charging ports, and coolers with ice. Departures are from this location, and the cruise is BYOB.
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Stop 2
Pass by the site of Fort Dearborn, the first American settlement on the south side of the river.
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Stop 3
View the location where the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 began.
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Stop 4
See the bridge where a hole formed in 1992, leading to the Great Flood that shut Chicago down for a week.
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Stop 5
Observe the buildings from 1964 that marked the shift from Chicago's Industrial Age to a residential metropolis.
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Stop 6
Learn about the Chicago River reversal and how it transformed the city’s development over the last century.
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Stop 7
Discover the 1893 World's Fair and the inventions introduced there that are still in use today.
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Stop 8
See where Captain Santa sold Christmas trees from his boat, the Rouse Simmons, during winter seasons.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point along the Chicago Riverwalk.
Our Water Plaza location is situated between LaSalle and Wells bridges. Access from the street is via a staircase at the northwest corner of Wacker and LaSalle. The check-in office is next to Sweet Home Gelato.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day in advance
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours of departure
- The tour may be canceled due to bad weather
Confirmation within 24 hours
The supplier reviews your request and typically confirms within 24 hours.
From $65.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
