Chicago archtecture boat tour questions

Question

Can I buy tickets at the gates? I'll be arrivng at 1 pm Sunday 6/15. Arrivng Hi Chicago Hostel by 2pm? It looks like I could walk up Michigan ave to the port. I'm not sure when I would get there hence the question about ticket purchase. Their website says they don't have a 3PM tour (wonder why) so are there other tours close by? Any definitive quality difference in the various tours?

Answer

Hi there!

Regarding the architecture boat tours in Chicago, here's what you need to know:

Ticket Purchase: Yes, you can typically buy tickets at the gates of the boat tours. However, I always recommend checking availability online in advance, especially during the busy tourist season, to ensure you get a spot on the tour you want. The tours can sell out quickly, especially on weekends. But if you plan to walk up to the dock around 2 pm, you should be able to buy tickets at the gate if there are still spots available. Since you're staying at Hi Chicago Hostel, you should be able to walk up Michigan Avenue to the dock relatively easily (it's about a 15-minute walk). The dock is located along the Chicago River, close to the Michigan Avenue Bridge.

Timing & 3 PM Tour: You’re correct that their website lists no 3 pm tour, and while the schedule can vary, it’s possible that they are fully booked by that time, or that timing is subject to special events or maintenance. You could check with the ticket booth upon arrival to see if any additional tours are running or if they can offer an alternative time. It’s also possible that certain tours may be unavailable for other reasons, such as weather conditions or crowd control measures.

Alternative Tours: If you miss the boat tour you were hoping for, there are several other companies offering architecture tours along the Chicago River, especially nearby. You might want to check out:

Shoreline Sightseeing: Offers architecture tours along the river and can be a good alternative to the more popular options.
Chicago’s First Lady: This is the primary provider for the official Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise, widely regarded as one of the best tours in the city.
Wendella Boats: Another company offering tours along the river with a variety of sightseeing options, including architecture tours.

Quality of Tours: The quality difference between the tours often comes down to the experience of the guides and the specific route. The Chicago Architecture Foundation tour is highly regarded and typically features more detailed, in-depth commentary on the city’s architectural history. It's considered one of the best in Chicago. However, the other tours by Shoreline Sightseeing, Wendella, and others also offer informative guides and scenic views of Chicago's skyline, so you’re bound to have a great experience regardless of which company you choose.

Ultimately, it depends on your timing and availability, but you’ll have plenty of great options, and all of the boat tours along the Chicago River offer beautiful views of the city’s iconic architecture. Have a fantastic time exploring Chicago!