Your guide to Chicago lake and river cruises
One of the best ways to see Chicago is from the water. The city is home to two stunning waterfronts — the Chicago River and Lake Michigan — and each offers plenty of cruise options. Admire the skyline on a lakefront cruise, learn about the city’s iconic architecture on a Chicago River cruise, enjoy dinner and dancing aboard an all-glass vessel, sip cocktails on a tiki-themed boat, paddle your own kayak — the options are truly endless. Here’s your guide to Chicago lake and river cruises, boat tours, dinner cruises, and beyond.
See it all with Shoreline Sightseeing
One of Chicago’s classic cruise options, Shoreline Sightseeing covers all the bases. Their ultra-popular Architecture River Tour takes you on all three branches of the historic Chicago River takes you past dozens of landmark buildings.
They also offer skyline lake tours, plus specialty cruises and holiday events. Hop on a boat at Navy Pier or on Michigan Avenue.
Dine on the water with City Experiences
City Experiences dining cruises are the perfect way to create a memorable moment in Chicago. Choose from a river or lake dining cruise, complete with delicious cuisine, cocktails, and entertainment.
Their glass-enclosed river vessel is particularly stunning. It offers passengers panoramic views of the city’s most iconic buildings as you glide along the Chicago River. They also offer lakefront brunch and dinner cruise options that depart from Navy Pier.
Entertain the family with Wendella Boats
For three generations, Wendella Tours and Cruises has been cruising the Chicago waterways. With its variety of tour options, cruise times and lengths, and a heated, enclosed cabin, Wendella is a great choice for families looking for flexibility. Choose from lake & river architecture, sunset cruises, and more.
Admire architecture with Chicago’s First Lady
Around the world, Chicago is known for its outstanding architecture, and it’s easiest to admire the city’s legacy from the water. By partnering with the Chicago Architecture Center , Chicago’s First Lady offers the most comprehensive tour of the skyline — docents must train 100 hours before they can lead tours.
Speed across Lake Michigan on Seadog Boat Tours
Are you up for a thrill? Race across Lake Michigan on SeaDog Cruises, featuring 30 minutes of high speeds and exhilarating twists and turns. Come prepared to get splashed.
SeaDog also offers lakefront speedboat tours and a river/lake architecture tour, featuring views of Chicago’s iconic Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Museum Campus, and more.
Live it up on an Island Party Boat
Looking for a party? These tiki-themed boats are always a good time, offering drink packages, stellar views, and fun vibes. You can hop on an Island Party Boat at Monroe Harbor or the Chicago Riverwalk, which is also where you’ll find their beach-inspired bar Island Party Hut. Choose from a river cruise, lake cruise, tacky tour guide cruise, or even a dueling pianos cruise.
Go back in time with Chicago Fireboat Tours
Step onto a real, historic fireboat and get ready for a unique experience with Chicago Fireboat Tours . The river tours are given aboard a real piece of Chicago history — a retired fireboat that patrolled the Chicago from 1937 to 1981. Tours are led by expert docents and include historic and sunset options.
Splurge on a Free Spirit Yacht Cruises
Looking to splurge a little? These private yacht charters are the way to go. The spacious yachts comfortably fit up to 49 or 120 people, making them the perfect option for a large celebration or an intimate gathering. Premium bar and catering packages round out the experience.
Explore the Chicago River with Urban Kayaks
If you’re ready to ditch the captain and explore the water on your own, then it’s time to grab a paddle at Urban Kayaks . You’ll go through a brief training session before you hit the water, but you’re free to paddle the river or lake at your own pace. Or join in a guided tour to catch the sunset, fireworks, or historic highlights. Rentals are available at the Chicago Riverwalk or Monroe Harbor.
Rent an electric boat
Chicago Electric Boat Company offers fun and unique ways to get out on the water, including donut boats, retro boats, and even a bike boat that your group can pedal down the Chicago River. Rental locations include Marina City, the Chicago Riverwalk, and Rockwell on the River in Avondale.
See the skyline aboard Mercury Cruises
While Chicago’s summer fireworks are already fun to watch, it’s an entirely new experience when you’re on a 3D tour. Before the show, you’ll cruise around the lake and see some of Chicago’s famous landmarks.
Mercury Cruises also offer Urban Adventure, Canine Cruises, and Chicago by Night tours.
Check out Chinatown via Chicago Water Taxi
Hop on! The Chicago Water Taxi is a fun and cheap way to get around Chicago. The Water Taxi stops at Ogilvie Transportation Center, Chinatown, Goose Island, the Chicago Riverwalk, Michigan Avenue, and River North. Get a one-way ticket for $6 or an all-day pass for $10. Check their daily routes and schedules for more details. Cruises.
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Free spirit yacht cruises.
Urban Kayaks
River North
Wendella Tours & Cruises
The Magnificent Mile
Chicago’s First Lady Cruises
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Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours
Chicago River Tours | Fireworks Tours | Jazz/Cocktail Tours
River Boat Tours
Book your tour now, book by phone: (708) 488-6343, about the tours, chicago river boat architecture tours .
Welcome to Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours! We’re proud to present you with an in-depth, expert architectural-based river boat tour that delves into one of the most remarkable American cities today. Known for unique, daring, and historical architectural pursuits, it’s hard to cover all of the design and building treasures that make up the Windy City today. If you’re ready to learning more about the designs, people, and innovations behind these creations, throw on your captains hat and get ready to cruise along the Chicago River and see what architects from around the world travel to see in Chicago.
About The Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours
Chicago is known around the world for its architectural feats, both inside and outside of the buildings. From the 100-year-old Art Deco, Neo-Classical, and Gothic Towers, to some of the tallest modern-day skyscrapers, Chicago is where old meets futuristic architectural endeavors. It has something for everyone in a way that no other city replicates today.
Why Tour Chicago’s Architecture with Us?
We are born-and-raised Chicagoans ourselves, passionate about the community that we know and love. That passion and desire spills into all of our tours, drawing on personal experiences for curating a tour that just can’t be duplicated by a book or a movie. We want you to experience everything firsthand. Why tour with us?
- Expertise: All of our tour guides are either architects, architecture students, or architecture historians, making for an in-depth and personally rooted kind of touring experience that covers all of the discreet details.
- Variety: We offer a variety of uniquely different tours that cover everyone’s individual taste. We offer the Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour that takes you down the famous Chicago River; there are several different options such as Architecture, History, Cocktail Cruises and Firework Viewing Tours
- Flexibility : We want you to enjoy your Chicago River Boat touring experience, which is why we’re happy to talk with you and learn more about how our tours can accommodate you, your party, or your corporate outing. Our tours run daily, with availability always posted on our website here.
Our Tours
- Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour : When in Chicago, cruising down the Chicago River is a must. Except with us, you’ll be taking in the architecture of the buildings that line the beautiful river. We provide detailed explanations of the construction and history of over 50 significant buildings, wrapping up at the end of the river.
- Chicago River Boat Cocktail Tour : Join us for this great Architecture Tour while sipping craft cocktails, beer or wine available for purchase at our bar on board!
- Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruise : Fireworks, one of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China were invented in the 12th century. Chicago approved City-Wide Use of Fireworks on the 4th of July 1893,. Mayor of Chicago Patrick Eugene Prendergast issued a proclamation approving the use of fireworks to celebrate the World’s Colombian Exposition and to celebrate the nation’s 117th Independence Day. This fascination with fireworks, noise, and color continues today. The City of Chicago offers a fireworks show at Navy Pier on Saturday nights at 10:15 p.m. The Fireworks Cruise sails on both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan each Saturday at 8:30 pm.
Our Commitment to Your Touring Experience
We believe that tours should be entertaining, enlightening, informational, and perfectly organized, every single time. A tour shouldn’t feel laborious in any way; you should feel an effortless inclination to learn more about what we present at your fingertips. With our Chicago architectural tours, that’s exactly what we strive to provide, basing each tour from the perspective of an expert with the real-life example in the background.
If you’re thinking about booking a tour with us, know that our commitment to flexibility and accessible makes our Chicago Architecture Tours easy and convenient:
- 3 pm *Not Available Friday thru Sunday Summer Months*
- 6:30 pm (Jazz Band, Cocktail w/bar) *Sunday Only*
- 8 pm (Wednesdays)
- 8:30 pm (Saturdays)
- Seniors $48
- Youths $30 (7-12 years old)
- Children 6 and under Free
BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY
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Chicago river boat cocktail tour.
Join us in the evening to sip cocktails while cruising the historic Chicago River! Get the same tour just with a cocktail in your hand! Premium bar on board with craft cocktails, wine and beer available for purchase. Drinks may be purchased individually with a credit card on the boat. Tour Information Pricing Adults $49… Continue reading Chicago River Boat Cocktail Tour
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Chicago river boat architectural tour.
Forming a length of 156 miles when combined, the Chicago River is a system of rivers and canals the characterize the infamous skyline of Chicago today. The river, running through the city, including the city center Chicago Loop, is evident of man made design and infrastructure when completed craftily. In 1887, the river was reversed… Continue reading Chicago River Boat Architectural Tour
Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruises (w/ Architecture Tour)
Enjoy your favorite drink while gazing Chicago’s magnificent architecture and finish your cruise with fabulous light show, at Navy Pier. Fireworks, one of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China were invented in the 12th century. Chicago approved City-Wide Use of Fireworks on the 4th of July 1893,. Mayor of Chicago Patrick Eugene Prendergast issued… Continue reading Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruises (w/ Architecture Tour)
- Architecture River Tour
Windy City wow
World-famous landmarks.
There’s nothing quite like seeing Chicago’s world-famous architecture from all three branches of the Chicago River. From hidden treasures to the city’s most well-known sights, you’ll view over 40 Chicago landmarks on our 75-minute Architecture River Boat Tours.
Enjoy the spectacular views as you listen to our tour guides tell you how Chicago’s buildings, architecture, and engineering made the city famous.
Casting off
Our Architecture River Tours depart from two docks, one at Michigan Avenue and the other at Navy Pier. No matter which dock you depart from, you’ll see all of the spectacular sights as you tour the Chicago River.
Michigan Avenue
401 N. Michigan Ave
Steps off of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, our Michigan Avenue dock starts your tour in the heart of the Chicago River.
124 N. Streeter Drive
Start your tour down the Chicago River at our Navy Pier dock, which sits at the entrance to the iconic Navy Pier boardwalk. This dock is more accessible to wheelchairs.
Our Architecture River Tour takes you up and down the three branches of the Chicago River, providing breathtaking views of Chicago’s famous skyscrapers and landmarks at every turn.
Adults: $49.95
Children (3-12): $26.95
Children 2 and under: Free
Tour highlights:
- 75-minute, guided boat tour
- Unique views from the water create an entirely new perspective of the city
- 40+ landmarks including the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City
- Hear the stories of Chicago’s architects and engineers while viewing their magnificent buildings
Sightseeing in Chicago?
Chicago CityPASS® tickets save 48% on premier admission to Chicago’s top 5 attractions, including the Architecture River Tour. Visit the attractions at your own pace, in any order, over a 9-day period. One easy purchase and mobile ticket delivery saves you time and money.
Book an Architecture River Tour
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Architecture River Tour
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Skyline Lake Tour
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Please select Navy Pier. (Skyline Lake Tours are unavailable from Michigan Avenue.)
600 E. Grand Ave
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Now in its 83rd season, Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis.
(312) 222-9328 ext. 1 [email protected]
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Chicago line cruises, chicago boat tours, discover world-famous architecture from chicago’s best vantage point., chicago river architecture tour.
Cruise down the Chicago River for 90 minutes as you listen to our expert guides discuss the history, impact and legacy of Chicago's renowned architecture.
Where to Find Us
Our boats are docked on the slip of water off the Chicago River called Odgen Slip. Click here for directions.
Ticket office and boarding: 465 N. McClurg Court Chicago, IL 60611
For help with directions, call us at 312-527-2002.
Bar Service & Merchandise
Complimentary
Starbucks Coffee, Twinings Tea, Coca-Cola soft drinks and lemonade are all complimentary.
BEER, WINE & COCKTAILS
Beer, wine and cocktails are available for purchase at any time.
MERCHANDISE
Never forget your onboard experience on your Chicago Line cruise. Be sure to purchase one of our stylish souvenirs today!
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This is my 8th time on a Chicago architectural river cruise and this was by far the most informative and biggest bang for your buck. Operagolf / LaHabra
The best guide on our whole USA trip. We took the Architecture tour where the boat meandered in between all of the incredible buildings of the city with the guide knowing EVERYTHING about each building; its style, age, height, architect, cost, purpose, owner ….. Quite brilliant! DrCumbrian / TripAdvisor
I've done several of the architecture cruises since my family moved to Chicago, and this is the best one yet! Allie K / TripAdvisor
If you only have time for one sight-seeing event while in Chicago, do this. We really have no great interest in architecture, but this tour came highly recommended and we did not regret it. Allice I / Oklahoma
My wife and I very much enjoyed the Chicago Line Cruise jazz cruise... My spouse said this was one of the favorite things she has done in Chicago since moving here in the past year, and I agree. I am a jazz snob, and ... I was very pleased with the music offered by the Geordie Kelly group. He's a fine jazz guitarist, and his band was great. Augie R / Yelp
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The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady is the city's official architecture tour!
Led by the Chicago Architecture Center 's knowledgeable and expertly trained docent volunteers abroad the city's most luxurious fleet, the cruise reveals fascinating stories behind Chicago's majestic buildings in a way no other tour can.
Safety is our #1 Priority. Learn more about our enhanced protocols .
CAC River Cruise
Ticket starting at $48.18 (plus applicable tax) Upgrade ticket for $5 to include Chicago Architecture Center admission
This classic tour is a must for out-of-town visitors and Chicagoans alike. Chicago Architecture Center docents lead you on an entertaining and engaging 90-minute experience. Learn about the architects who created our city's magnificent buildings—and the stories behind them. View our route .
Get your river cruise tickets
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CAC Evening River Cruise
Tickets starting at $52.91 (plus applicable tax) Upgrade ticket for $5 to include Chicago Architecture Center admission
Have a magical experience as you cruise the Chicago River in the evening. You'll delight in breathtaking views as you discover the stories behind our glorious buildings. Limited availability.
Get your evening river cruise tickets
*CAC ADMISSION TICKET MAY BE USED FOR UP TO 7 DAYS AFTER YOUR RIVER CRUISE
Departure Location
Departs from northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, at 112 E. Wacker Dr., on Chicago's Riverwalk. Look for the blue awning.
Parking is available at 111 E. Wacker Dr., right next to the Chicago Architecture Center.
Children under 3: $23.62 (plus applicable tax) All passengers must present a ticket to board.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the dock's wheelchair accessible entrance?
You can access an ADA ramp at Wacker Drive and State Street. When you reach the Riverwalk level, head two blocks east to reach the dock. For Riverwalk level drop-off location. Learn more here.
Where is parking available nearby?
Parking is available at 111 E. Wacker Dr., right next to the Chicago Architecture Center. Read more at cruisechicago.com/location .
Is there food/drink available onboard?
Yes. All boats have a full bar available onboard, as well as local, Chicago-area snacks available for purchase.
Is there assigned seating?
All seating is general admission. There are enough seats for all guests to have a seat outside, so you won’t have to sit inside unless you want to. Indoor seating is available for those who wish to stay out of the sun or adverse weather conditions.
What's included in a CAC visit?
A visit to the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) includes access to two floors of extraordinary exhibits. Admission is normally $15, but with the river cruise bundle, you get access for only $5! Learn more about the CAC at architecture.org .
The Center is currently scheduled to reopen to the public on May 22, 2021.
Can I rent the boat for special events?
Yes! Chicago's First Lady's fleet is available for groups of 2—250 to charter for your special events. You can find out more information by visiting cruisechicago.com/private-events .
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Advance reservations are recommended as many tours sell out during the summer season and on weekends. Also, the weekday 7:30pm tour often sells out in advance.
Nonprofit organization with tours, exhibitions, programs and events for all ages.
Chicago's finest fleet of cruising vessels accommodating groups up to 250.
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THANKS FOR A GREAT 2023 CRUISING SEASON
2024 tickets on sale now!
Urban Adventure Cruise
Embark on a 90-minute (approximate) sightseeing adventure aboard our most popular daily tour. See Chicago from the unique perspective of the river and lake and learn about the city as our lively guides take you on a journey filled with tall buildings and taller tales.
CHICAGO BY NIGHT! Cruise
Glide along the Chicago River and Lakefront under the dazzling glow of the city at night. Seeing Chicago's epic skyline glimmer and glow should be on everyone's bucket list!
3D Fireworks Cruise
"Ooh" and "aah" with each magnificent burst of fireworks against Chicago’s unforgettable nighttime skyline. 3D glasses add to the fun. You've never seen fireworks like this!
Canine Cruise
Feel the wind in your hair (and fur!) on a memory-filled river and lake cruise adventure with your best friend. A must for every dog lover.
Science is Fun! Cruise
A cruise on Chicago’s waterways is the ultimate science classroom! Arrange a school field trip or summer camp group outing to spend a day of fun, science and learning on Chicago’s majestic river and Lake Michigan!
Special Events
“I absolutely loved this boat ride! There's no feeling like being on that beautiful river with the giant skyscrapers all around. Out on the lake the views are beautiful and you get plenty of picture time. I learned a lot about the architecture and saw Chicago in a new light.”
Luci K. TripAdvisor, Los Angeles, California
Chicago River Architecture Tour
Chicago's Original Architecture Tour®
Departing from Michigan Avenue
Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length architecture tours.
Schedule & Tickets
- Adult: $28.00
- Child (4 -12): $13.00
- Under 4: Free (ticket required)
TICKETS ARE NON REFUNDABLE BUT ARE TRANSFERABLE.
- Parking & Directions
- More Information
- Mich Ave Location; 400 N Michigan Avenue Chicago, Il 60611
- Boarding begins 15-30 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.
- All bags are subject to inspection.
- Prohibited Items: Outside Alcohol, Weapons of any kind (Firearms, Knives, etc.), Flammables, Explosives.
YOUR BOAT INCLUDES:
Drinks & Snacks
Full-service bar with wine, local beer, and craft cocktails, as well as an assortment of snacks, all for purchase. Pinkies up!
Expert Tour Guide
Never boring, always entertaining.
No need to hold it. We have changing tables for the little ones who don’t know what holding it is.
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City Cruises – Seadog River and Lake Architecture Tour
Enjoy Chicago’s iconic skyline with an exciting architecture cruise on the Chicago River.
Departing from Navy Pier, this 75-minute narrated cruise is the best way to get up-close views of Chicago’s unique architecture and famous landmarks. Seadog offers fun for the whole family (and the dog, too!) with live narration along the city’s shore.
Enjoy the speed of Seadog afterward during a short speedboat ride on the lake!
You’ll Enjoy:
- 75-minute cruise
- The only tour to take you from the lakefront, through the locks, and along the Chicago River all the way to the famous Willis Tower!
- The best views of Chicago’s famous buildings and unique architecture with entertaining narrations.
- This ride also includes a short speedboat ride portion on the lake!
- Seadog is BYOB – bring your own drinks to enjoy on the water (no glass containers)
Disclaimer: This ride is not recommended for guests with conditions to the neck or back or that may be pregnant. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
*Cruising with a child under 2? Please add a $0.00 infant ticket to your cart. Infants cruise free, but are required to have a ticket so we can get an accurate head count.
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Chicago: 45 Minute River Architectural Cruise Tour
Chicago activities, tuesday, may 7 at 5:45 pm cdt.
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Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady
TripAdvisor users rank the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady as the city's #1 boat tour.
Late Spring April 26 - May 23
- Mon 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm
- Tues 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
- Wed 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
- Thu 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm
- Fri 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm
- Sun 9:30 am 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:00 pm
2024 cruising season begins March 17th and extends through November 24th. Tickets on sale now!
Early Spring March 17 - April 25
- Mon 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
- Tues 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
- Wed 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
- Thu 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
- Fri 10:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
- Sun 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm
Summer May 24 - October 14
- Mon 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:30 pm
- Tues 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm
- Wed 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 6:00 pm
- Thu 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:30 pm
- Fri 9:30 am 10:00 am 10:30 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 12:30 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 2:30 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:30 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:30 pm
- Sun 9:30 am 10:00 am 10:30 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 12:30 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 2:30 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:30 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:30 pm
Early Fall October 15 - November 3
- Mon 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
- Thu 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
- Fri 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:30 pm
- Sun 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm 6:00 pm
Late Fall November 4 - November 24
- Fri 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
- Sun 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
– Carla S. Yelp
Evening River Cruise
Experience our renowned daytime CAC River Cruise in the glow of the setting sun. Take in the city’s magnificent architecture bathed in golden light as it begins its transition from day to night.
- Mon 7:00 pm
- Thu 7:00 pm
- Fri 5:30 pm 7:00 pm
- Sun 6:00 pm
2024 Evening River Cruise season begins April 26th and extends through November 24th. Tickets on sale now!
- Mon 5:30 pm 7:30 pm
- Tues 7:00 pm
- Wed 6:00 pm
- Thu 5:30 pm 7:30 pm
- Fri 5:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:30 pm
- Sun 5:30 pm 7:30 pm
- Sun 5:30 pm 6:00 pm
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Buy a combo ticket for the river cruise AND visit the Chicago Architecture Center—you'll save $9! ... Evening River Cruise. The city's most popular tour is now offered in the evening. Serene and bathed in softer light, the city's architecture takes on a whole new life in the setting sun. Wind-down from the work-week by enjoying a cocktail ...
Race across Lake Michigan on SeaDog Cruises, featuring 30 minutes of high speeds and exhilarating twists and turns. Come prepared to get splashed. SeaDog also offers lakefront speedboat tours and a river/lake architecture tour, featuring views of Chicago's iconic Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Museum Campus, and more.
TripAdvisor users rank the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady as the city's #1 boat tour. Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady Learn More. Private Events. There's one sure recipe to make your business or social event even more memorable - just add water and Chicago's ...
90 minutes. Buy Tickets. Chicago's Original Architecture Tour®. Experience the city's legendary architecture from the best seat in the house—the river. Our experienced tour guides detail the 130 year long history behind the skyline, while our bartenders and staff keep you comfortable and entertained. This comprehensive tour navigates ...
8 pm. Chicago River Boat Cocktail & Live Jazz Cruise. 6:30 pm (Jazz Band, Cocktail w/bar) *Sunday Only*. Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruise (w/ Architecture Tour) (2 Hours Long) 8 pm (Wednesdays) 8:30 pm (Saturdays) Pricing Starting At: Adults $49. Seniors $48.
Chicago's First Lady offers various riverboat tours & rides with beautiful sightseeing of Chicago city. To explore our tours, contact us & book your tickets today! CRUISING SEASON 2024. March 17 - November 24. ... Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady.
Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady . Architecture Adventure Awaits! Explore Chicago's iconic architecture aboard TripAdvisor's #1 rated boat tour of the city. The only Chicago River cruise partnered with the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC), Chicago's First Lady Cruises offers visitors the city's most engaging 90-minute architectural tour experience.
Family-owned and operated since 1935, Wendella is Chicago's Original Architecture Tour. Offering the greatest variety of tours and cruises on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, Wendella is the ultimate Chicago experience.
The only Chicago River Cruise named to the Top 10 Boat Tours in North America—3 years in a row! Buy tickets "So worth it. This was a highlight of our trip. ... This classic tour aboard the city's most luxurious fleet, is a must for out-of-town visitors and Chicagoans alike. Tickets start at $53.85. Get More Info.
Cruise down the Chicago River to see the city's famous architecture on this boat tour. With commentary from your onboard guide, watch the spectacular skyline glide by, including more than 40 notable buildings like the Wrigley Building and the John Hancock Building. Cover all three branches of the Chicago River, passing the East Bank Club, the old Post Office Building and the Willis Tower ...
Pre-purchase your ticket to skip the ticket line and guarantee your place on this popular cruise. Experience the architectural river tour which started it all - back in 1935. Enjoy year-long cruising with a choice of outside deck-top or indoor climate-controlled seating. Learn from expert tour guides the importance of Chicago's architecture ...
Start your tour down the Chicago River at our Navy Pier dock, which sits at the entrance to the iconic Navy Pier boardwalk. ... Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis. (312) 222-9328 ext. 1 [email protected] . Tours;
We suggest that if you have a concern about whether your vessel has a climate-controlled lounge, to please call ahead: 312-337-1446. View our Schedule and Buy Tickets for Wendella's Chicago's Original Architecture Tour®; including a boat ride along the Chicago River with a guided narration of Chicago's architectural heritage and history.
Our boats are docked on the slip of water off the Chicago River called Odgen Slip. Click here for directions. Ticket office and boarding: 465 N. McClurg Court. Chicago, IL 60611. For help with directions, call us at 312-527-2002.
Get a front row perspective on the exquisite buildings that line the Chicago River during a 45-minute architecture cruise. Hear live commentary about the history and architectural heritage of Chicago on this family-friendly tour, which highlights landmarks such as the Chicago Riverwalk, Michigan Avenue Bridge, Wrigley Building, and Willis Tower. Sit on the open-air top deck or the sheltered ...
Discover the architectural gems of the Windy City from an ideal vantage point on a cruise down the Chicago River. Offered several times throughout the day, it's easy to fit the leisurely excursion into your itinerary. Covering more than 130 years of architectural history, the tour is the perfect opportunity to see a huge area of the city without the hassle of taxis and public transit.
CAC River Cruise. Ticket starting at $48.18 (plus applicable tax) Upgrade ticket for $5 to include Chicago Architecture Center admission. This classic tour is a must for out-of-town visitors and Chicagoans alike. Chicago Architecture Center docents lead you on an entertaining and engaging 90-minute experience.
Urban Adventure Cruise. Embark on a 90-minute (approximate) sightseeing adventure aboard our most popular daily tour. See Chicago from the unique perspective of the river and lake and learn about the city as our lively guides take you on a journey filled with tall buildings and taller tales. CHICAGO BY NIGHT!
Take in the iconic Chicago iconic skyline and the magnificent Chicago River with one of our sightseeing cruises at Navy Pier! Ranging from 40-90 minutes in length, sightseeing cruises offer guests panoramic city views along with entertaining and enlightening commentary about Chicago's architecture and history.
Child (4 -12): $13.00. Under 4: Free (ticket required) TICKETS ARE NON REFUNDABLE BUT ARE TRANSFERABLE. Parking & Directions. More Information. Route Map. COVID-19 Safety. Mich Ave Location; 400 N Michigan Avenue Chicago, Il 60611. Boarding begins 15-30 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.
Photo Gallery. Our renowned daytime Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise is now offered in the evening. To experience an evening river cruise, give us a call at 847-358-1330.
75-minute cruise; The only tour to take you from the lakefront, through the locks, and along the Chicago River all the way to the famous Willis Tower! The best views of Chicago's famous buildings and unique architecture with entertaining narrations. This ride also includes a short speedboat ride portion on the lake!
Buy tickets, bottle service & guest list for Chicago: 45 Minute River Architectural Cruise Tour at Chicago Activities in Chicago
TripAdvisor users rank the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady as the city's #1 boat tour. Off Season, check back soon. Late Spring April 26 - May 23. Mon 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm;