Chicago Riverwalk Self-Guided Walking Tour

The Chicago Riverwalk Self-Guided Walking Tour offers an affordable and flexible way to discover the city’s iconic architecture and landmarks. Priced at $14.99 per person, this tour provides a self-led experience with a mobile ticket that remains valid for a full year after booking. It typically takes 1 to 2 hours to complete and fits easily into your schedule, whether you prefer to explore in a single stretch or spread out over several days. The tour is designed for anyone interested in Chicago’s skyline, history, and architecture, especially those who enjoy exploring at their own pace without a guided group.

This tour stands out because it includes an offline GPS map, ensuring navigation remains smooth even without cell service. The audio commentary enriches each stop with engaging stories, making the experience both educational and entertaining. While it doesn’t include entry tickets to the attractions, it covers renowned landmarks like the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower. This tour suits visitors seeking cost-effective, flexible sightseeing with a personalized pace, and is especially practical for extended stays or repeat visits.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $14.99 with year-long validity.
• Self-guided audio tour with offline GPS maps for easy navigation.
• Multiple stops including Wrigley Building, Merchandise Mart, and Tribune Tower.
• Flexible schedule: Begin anytime within 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
• No additional attraction tickets needed – just download the app and start exploring.
• Designed for independent exploring with engaging storytelling.

How the Tour Starts at Chicago Riverwalk

The tour begins at 65 Chicago Riverwalk, arriving by public transportation or walking from nearby areas. Once on-site, users open the Actions Tour Guide App, enter the password sent via email or text, and access the tour offline. The process is straightforward: launch the tour, and the audio stories automatically play as you reach each stop. No guides are present at the start, giving visitors the freedom to explore at their own pace with hands-free narration.

This setup makes it ideal for those who prefer independent exploration without group schedules or guide-led tours. The app’s offline maps ensure navigation remains reliable even with limited signal, and you can pause or skip stories anytime. The one-time purchase grants access for up to a year, perfect for repeat visits or extended stays in Chicago.

Exploring Chicago’s Architectural Icons: Wrigley Building and Michigan Avenue Bridge

The tour’s first stops highlight Chicago’s architectural heritage. The Wrigley Building is an iconic terra cotta skyscraper, famous for its large clock tower and charming facade. Named after William Wrigley Jr., the building is known for its character and historical significance. Nearby is the Hotel Intercontinental, which features a hidden observatory — an interesting detail for architecture enthusiasts.

Next, the Michigan Avenue Bridge, also called the DuSable Bridge, showcases impressive architectural beauty. Its design, along with fascinating flags with their own history, adds visual interest. These stops enable visitors to appreciate Chicago’s skyline development and learn stories behind the structures through the audio commentary.

Marvel at Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago

Standing out along the Riverwalk is the Trump International Hotel & Tower, a 98-story glass skyscraper reaching 1,399 feet tall. It’s among the tallest buildings in the United States and is built using the same techniques as the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the world’s tallest tower. This stop provides a chance to admire its scale and learn about its innovative construction.

The tower’s prominence makes it one of the most recognizable features of Chicago’s skyline, and the app offers insights into what makes this modern skyscraper so impressive. Visitors get a closer look at Chicago’s vertical growth and skyline ambitions.

Reflect at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the Riverwalk is a somber tribute to Illinois residents who lost their lives in the Vietnam War. It features a sunken rectangular pool and a fountain, creating a quiet space for reflection. The memorial’s design offers a striking visual that combines tribute and serenity.

While the memorial itself is a free public space, the tour’s audio commentary provides context to its significance. It’s an emotional stop that honors service and sacrifice, adding depth to the sightseeing experience.

Discover the Marina Towers Condominiums

The Marina Towers, sometimes called “Corn Cobs,” are a distinctive part of Chicago’s skyline. The twin towers house a theatre, gym, pool, and marina, functioning as a self-contained community. Their unique shape and multifunctional design make them a popular photo opportunity.

This stop highlights urban innovation and living in style along the river, giving insight into Chicago’s residential architecture. The app’s narration shares stories about their design and role in the city’s development.

The Dearborn Street Bridge and Its Modern Design

Built in 1962, the Dearborn Street Bridge replaced a disliked prior structure. It illustrates Chicago’s evolving infrastructure and the city’s approach to modern bridge design. The narrative explains residents’ complaints and how the current bridge addressed those issues.

Its functional yet contemporary design makes it a noteworthy element on the Riverwalk. Visitors learn how public opinion and technological advances influence urban planning.

Chicago’s Architectural Heritage at Reid Murdoch Building and Merchandise Mart

The Reid Murdoch Building, dating from 1914, now houses the Encyclopedia Britannica headquarters. Its short and modest facade hides a fascinating history, contrasting with more modern skyscrapers.

The Merchandise Mart is a massive Art Deco building that occupies enough space for its own zip code. Covering four million square feet, it’s a hub for commerce and design. Its distinctive style and size make it a highlight of the tour, showcasing Chicago’s commercial architecture.

The McCormick Bridgehouse & River Museum

This museum offers insights into Chicago’s river history and engineering marvels. It provides exhibits on river construction and resilience, along with bird’s-eye views of the river from its top floor.

It’s an interactive stop that combines history and visual perspectives, enriching the understanding of Chicago’s relationship with its famous river.

The Tribune Tower and Famous Chicago Landmarks

The Tribune Tower exemplifies neo-Gothic architecture, created from a design competition by the Chicago Tribune. Celebrated for its distinctive style, it was meant to be Chicago’s most beautiful office building during its construction.

Nearby, the William P. Fahey Bridge and NBC Tower each reflect Chicago’s architectural diversity. The NBC Tower is modeled after New York’s 30 Rockefeller Center and is known for its art deco style. It also served as the filming location for famous shows like The Jerry Springer Show.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour begins at 65 Chicago Riverwalk and ends at the River Esplanade. It operates daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, providing flexibility for early risers or evening explorers. After booking, users receive an email and text with instructions, including a password to access the tour.

Participants are encouraged to bring headphones or earbuds for optimal listening. The self-guided format allows for pausing and exploring side streets, and skipping stories that don’t interest you. Since the tour is private, only your group participates, making it ideal for personalized exploration.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This self-guided tour suits independent travelers eager to explore Chicago’s architectural highlights at their own pace. It’s perfect for extended stays or repeat visits, thanks to the year-long access. Visitors who value cost-effectiveness and flexibility will find this option appealing, particularly those who enjoy learning through storytelling and self-paced wandering.

The tour’s offline maps and easy app interface make it accessible for all fitness levels, with no physical exertion beyond walking. It provides a rundown of Chicago’s skyline and riverside history without the need for guided groups or additional entry tickets.

Chicago Riverwalk Self-Guided Walking Tour: Final Thoughts

The Chicago Riverwalk Self-Guided Walking Tour provides an affordable, flexible, and informative way to discover the city’s iconic landmarks. Its price point, combined with year-long access, makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious visitors or those planning multiple visits. The offline maps and narration ensure a smooth experience, even in areas with limited signal.

While it doesn’t include entrance tickets to attractions, the tour’s stops highlight Chicago’s architectural marvels and memorials with engaging stories. The self-paced format allows for personalized exploration suited to your interests and schedule. If you enjoy learning about architecture, urban history, or simply want to see the skyline from the river, this tour offers valuable insights at a friendly price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers and is accessible for anyone comfortable walking along the Riverwalk.

Do I need to buy attraction tickets separately?
Yes, the tour covers external landmarks and memorials but does not include entrance fees.

How do I access the tour once booked?
After booking, you receive an email and text with setup instructions and a password. Download the Actions Tour Guide App, enter the password, and the tour works offline.

Can I start this tour at any time?
Yes, the tour operates daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and you can initiate it whenever it suits your schedule.

How long does the tour typically last?
Most participants spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the stops and listening to stories, but it’s flexible to your pace.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Absolutely, it’s suitable for families and individuals alike, with no physical or age restrictions beyond walking.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its cost-effectiveness, year-long access, offline GPS maps, and engaging storytelling make it a practical choice for those wanting an independent, informative experience along Chicago’s Riverwalk.

Can I take this tour more than once?
Yes, since the access is valid for up to one year, you can revisit the tour multiple times during your stay.