A favorite experience for visitors to Chicago or tourists in their own city is taking a Chicago Architectural boat tour on the Chicago River. Chicago is a city rich with architectural heritage and there is no better way to enjoy it then from the river. Take in the historic Wrigley Building, Chicago's tallest building the Willis Tower and the newest addition to the riverfront Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago.

Photo Credit: Maggie not Margaret

A great alternative for those looking for a more active experience is to take a kayak tour of the Chicago River. Kayak Chicago offers a variety of tours but one of their most popular is the architectural and history paddle on the Chicago River. A three-hour adventure in which you learn about the history of the city, buildings and people of Chicago, all the while looking up at the looming skyscrapers from the comfort of your vessel.

Combine a workout with a bit of education and site seeing on your next visit to Chicago. Tours operate from the beginning of May all the way through October. The great part about a self-powered kayak tour is you burn off enough calories so as not to feel guilty taking advantage of Chicago's great restaurants or enjoying our famous Chicago-style pizza.

If you'd prefer to stay on land, you can also enjoy Chicago's phenomenal architecture while be active through the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking tours.