Chicago Architectural Boat Tour- Chicago, IL

Published On: Mar 14, 2007


Cruisin' on the Chicago River & Lake Architecture TourIf you would like to see and hear about some of Chicago’s most famous buildings, take a Chicago Architectural Boat Tour.

The Chicago Architectural Boat Tour is led by a professional in the field of architecture, and typically lasts about an hour. This guide will explain the significance of the architecture of 40 buildings as well as Chicago’s influence on the art of architecture.  As an added bonus, you'll also receive a discount to the Amazing Chicago's Funhouse Maze.

The architectural professional on this Chicago tour will detail Chicago’s architectural recovery after the Great Fire of 1871. You will hear about the birth of the skyscraper as well as other modern American architectural elements that have their routes in Chicago.  

While you are taking the Chicago Architectural Boat Tour, you will see examples of works by such famous architects as Helmut Jahn, Skidmore Owings & Merrill, and Mies van der Rohe.

The buildings included are Illinois Center, Navy Pier, Cityfront Center, Lake Point Tower, John Hancock Center, Aon Tower, 333 North Michigan, NBC Tower, 360 North Michigan, Chicago Tribune Tower, Leo Burnett Building, 401 North Michigan, 35 East Wacker, Wrigley Building, IBM Building, 222 North LaSalle, Marina City, LaSalle-Wacker Building, R.R. Donnelley Center and many more.

The Chicago Architectural Boat Tour boards at Navy Pier. Then, you will make your way down the Chicago River’s main branch. Next, you will tour the north branch of the Chicago River to the East Bank Club during this Chicago activity. Finally, you will float past the Sears Tower and old Post Office to end the Chicago tour.

One of the most interesting points on the Chicago Architectural Boat Tour is the notation and explanation of balloon frame construction.

This Chicago tour notes that balloon frame construction began in Chicago in the 1830’s. This architectural method allowed builders to create home much more quickly than in the past. Balloon framing influenced builders across the country.

Your comfort is certainly taken into consideration on the Chicago Architectural Boat Tour. They are handicap accessible and have rest rooms, a bar, and double deck seating.

Generally , the Chicago Architectural Boat Tour opens for the season in April and ends in November. You will be able to enjoy this Chicago attraction on Saturdays and Sundays as well as major holidays such as Memorial Day, Labor Day, and the Fourth of July.

However, be sure to check the calendar to make sure the date you would like to enjoy the Chicago Architectural Boat tour is available.

The Chicago Architectural Boat Tour makes reservations easy by using E-Ticket.  Once you purchase your ticket, you will be given a web site to visit. Then, your tickets will be available for you to print from the convenience of your own printer.

In closing, taking the Chicago Architectural Boat Tour will give you an opportunity to hear some of the Chicago’s history that has helped shape the modern architectural world. Take advantage of this unique Chicago activity and enjoy the ride!



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