Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise
+10 photos
At a glance
- Duration
- 1h 30min
- Price from
- $46 / person
- Location
- Chicago, United States
- Rating
- 4.7 / 5 · 742 reviews
- Languages
- EN
- Group
- Small group, up to 115
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Confirmation
- Instant
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Operator
- First Lady
- Meeting point
- On Michigan & Wacker Drive, at the northeast corner of the intersection. Upon arrival, please take the stairs down to Chicago's Riverwalk and visit the box office (right after/bottom of the stairs) for guidance to your cruise boarding dock. A departure board is available for your reference.
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!
Schedule & prices
- Runs
- Every day
- Start times
- 22 times a day, 11:15 AM–7:15 PM
- Next available
- Thu, Oct 8
- Adult (ages 13+)
- $46
- Child (ages 4–12)
- $21
- Infant (ages 0–3)
- Free
Prices change with the date; the lowest is shown.
Out at sunset: the 5:00 PM departure is under way when the sun sets, around 6:02 PM in the coming weeks.
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 7.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Chicago River
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.
Lake Michigan
Cruise along Lake Michigan for stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
Navy Pier
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.
John Hancock Center
See the 100-story, 1,128-foot skyscraper on the Magnificent Mile, from the lake.
Field Museum
One of the largest natural history museums in the world!
Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium was once the largest indoor aquarium in the world.
Adler Planetarium
See this famous planetarium in the heart of Chicago's museum campus.
Soldier Field
Soldier Field is a Chicago landmark and home to the Chicago Bears.
Clarence F. Buckingham Fountain
Located in the center of Grant Park. Dedicated in 1927, it is one of the largest fountains in the world!
Wrigley Building
The Wrigley Building was constructed as the corporate headquarters of the Wrigley Company, the famous maker of chewing gum.
Marina City
See the twin 65-story towers along the Chicago River known for their distinctive circular design and mixed-use layout.
What's included
Included
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Live commentary on board
Not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Traveller Ratings
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
4.7
742 reviews
How it compares in Chicago
- No. 24 by number of reviews among 523 tours in Chicago
- Starting price $46 is 19% below the typical $57 for tours of similar length in Chicago
Excurgo comparison of 523 Viator tours, recalculated daily.
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.
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
1+ days before100% refund
0–1 days before0% refund
Frequently asked questions
How long does Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise take?
Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise lasts about 1h 30min. The itinerary has 11 stops.
How much does Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise cost?
Prices start at $46 per person for this Chicago experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There are 2 booking options, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
What days does Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise run?
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs every day, with 22 departures a day between 11:15 AM and 7:15 PM.
How much does Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise cost for children?
Children aged 4–12 pay from $21, adults from $46. Infants go free.
Can I cancel Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is On Michigan & Wacker Drive, at the northeast corner of the intersection. Upon arrival, please take the stairs down to Chicago's Riverwalk and visit the box office (right after/bottom of the stairs) for guidance to your cruise boarding dock. A departure board is available for your reference. Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
What languages is Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise offered in?
The experience is available in EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 115 participants.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller Children must be accompanied by an adult
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchair accessibility varies by vessel. Please contact us in advance to confirm availability.
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Reviews(742)
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
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- Shortest: Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise — 1h 30min
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from$46
4.7(742) Free cancellation