Wendella boat tours are a Chicago rite of passage. Family-owned since 1935, we’ve spent nine decades cruising the river, sharing stories, and showing off the skyline. With the city's largest variety of tours and cruises, we give you more ways to experience Chicago, from history-packed architecture tours to golden hour cruises and everything in between. Chicago was built on the water, so trust us—this is the way to see it.
Some things just belong to Chicago—like deep-dish pizza, the Cubs, and Wendella. Our crew knows this city like the back of their hand and loves sharing it from the water.
THE BEST SPOT IN TOWN
We launch from the heart of downtown, right where the best sights are. Just step aboard and enjoy your front-row seat.
MORE THAN A TOUR
Our guides love to yap, but they certainly don’t lecture. They’re here to tell stories, answer questions, and let you soak in the experience.
BUILT FOR ANY WEATHER
Lake-effect? We’ve seen it all. While others dock for the season, we keep showing off the skyline, no matter what Chicago throws our way. With climate-controlled cabins, covered decks, and open-air seating, you’ll cruise in comfort year-round.
CREW YOU CAN COUNT ON
Our people are the difference. Wendella’s crew is the most experienced and best-trained on the water, ready to deliver safe and downright legendary experiences every time you step aboard.
Over 90 YEARS OF CHICAGO STORYTELLING
Wendella boat tours are a Chicago rite of passage. Family-owned since 1935, we’ve spent nine decades cruising the river, sharing stories, and showing off the skyline. With the city's largest variety of tours and cruises, we give you more ways to experience Chicago, from history-packed architecture tours to golden hour cruises and everything in between. Chicago was built on the water, so trust us—this is the way to see it.
"Appreciated the live guide giving the tour and his delivery was informative, fun, and not monotone. He also helped with pictures and answered questions."
— Rick, 2026
“We learned alot and enjoyed the beauty of downtown from the water."
— Florian, 2026
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"The tour and guide were fantastic. Everything was clear and engaging, we didn't even notice the time flying by
— Mathis, 2026
"The tour was fun and informative and a great way to see Chicago."
— Robyn, 2026
“I loved the tour guide; she was funny while still being educational. Would highly recommend"
— Katherine, 2026
“I've done the Wendella Boat Tour four times now whenever friends or family visit, and it's always an awesome experience. This is a must-do if you're in Chicago.”
— Jason, 2025
“The BEST tour guides on the Chicago River! I've been on the Wendella boats for the Chicago River Architecture Tour several times and it's been fantastic every time and worth every penny!”
— Elizabeth, 2025
“The Wendella architecture tour came highly recommended to us when we moved to Chicago. I will say the hype is real.”
