Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise
Description
Our popular 90-minute daytime river and lake sightseeing tour delights family members of all ages with incredible views of Chicago's world-renowned buildings and stunning skyline. Lively, knowledgeable tour guides bring Chicago’s rich history to life with fun stories and interesting facts. Relax and unwind on a scenic tour of the city from the unique perspective of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Welcome aboard!
Tour Options
Itinerary
The tour cruises along the main branch of the river. You’ll hear stories and insights about Chicago’s most iconic buildings and skyline landmarks.
Cruise along Lake Michigan for stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
Features nearly 50 acres of parks, promenades, gardens, shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the iconic Centennial Wheel, which rises nearly 200 feet above Lake Michigan.
See the 100-story, 1,128-foot skyscraper on the Magnificent Mile, from the lake.
One of the largest natural history museums in the world!
Shedd Aquarium was once the largest indoor aquarium in the world.
See this famous planetarium in the heart of Chicago's museum campus.
Soldier Field is a Chicago landmark and home to the Chicago Bears.
Located in the center of Grant Park. Dedicated in 1927, it is one of the largest fountains in the world!
The Wrigley Building was constructed as the corporate headquarters of the Wrigley Company, the famous maker of chewing gum.
See the twin 65-story towers along the Chicago River known for their distinctive circular design and mixed-use layout.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Discounted parking available at 111 E. Wacker Drive. Please visit the dockside box office for parking ticket validation
- Wheelchair accessibility varies by vessel. Please contact us in advance to confirm availability.
Reviews(690)
It was a great time. It was informative, scenery was awesome. The boarding and exiting was orderly. It was just an all around good time.
This tour was amazing and beautiful. 10/10 worth the money. Nice views. The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable on the architecture of Chicago. We got stuck BUUUUT the boat crew remained calm and got us back safely. They gave us a refund before we got back to shore. I would recommend getting new wine because the wine that was there was really nasty lol.
The boat broke on us in the middle of lake Michigan. The crew worked to get us back but the damage was done for me. No clear communication when it happened. Got more communication from the boat the came to help
My husband and I went to Chicago for the first time to Chicago. We didn't know what to expect so we booked this cruise to occupy some time and get a feel for Chicago. It ended up being the highlight of the trip. The narration was spot on and the boat ride was smooth and so fun. There was lots of room to get up and move around and take photos from both the lake and the river. The views were spectacular. If we go back to Chicago, which we probably will, we will definitely take this cruise again. Highly recommend.
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Great views of Chicago’s architectures from the river and Michigan lake. The guide was very informative!
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
The guide was AMAZING!!! His knowledge and passion for Chicago was infectious!!!
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
We spent 15–20 minutes waiting for the doors to open at the Chicago Harbor Lock—twice—only to spend about 90% of the time floating around Lake Michigan, going back and forth and looking at the skyline. Yes, it’s beautiful, but you can only see so much of it, and we would have much rather seen the actual city. So, if you’re looking for an architecture tour down the river to see downtown Chicago, this is not it. Save your money.
Great tour with plenty of information provided about Chicago's architecture and surroundings. The presenter Matthew was excellent.
Thank you for your review. We think Matthew is awesome too. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Very knowledgeable on city history the ride was the perfect amount of time and the history was very impressive
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
It was a great experience to spend time on both the lake and the river. The tour ended up lasting longer than expected due to extra time going thru the locks.
Thank you for your review and feedback. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
