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The 15 best boat tours in Chicago

See the skyline from dazzling new vantage points aboard one of the best boat tours in Chicago

Sure, walks along Michigan Avenue and State Street are nice and rooftop bars offer plenty of pretty sights – but the best way to see downtown Chicago is from the water. Both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan offer unparalleled vantage points for taking in the city’s world-famous architecture and the breathtaking Chicago skyline , with many of the tours providing unique insights into the city’s culture and history.

From architecture tours and history lessons to  straightforward sightseeing affairs , romantic excursions and pirate-themed family fun, there's a Chicago cruise for every groove. Below we’ve got the essential list of the city’s finest waterborne tours, including tall-mast ships and glitzy speed boats. Bon voyage!  

RECOMMENDED: Find more to explore with the best things to do in Chicago Plan your trip with the  best hotels in Chicago

How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favorites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links – these have no influence on our editorial content – we pinky swear. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines .

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Best Chicago boat tours

1.  1.5-Hour Guided Architecture River Cruise

Departing from Navy Pier's Polk Bros Park or the northeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, this 60-minute trip packs in all of the architectural sights that visitors want to see. Tour guides highlight more than 40 towering Chicago landmarks, including the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City (a.k.a. "The Corncobs" or " The Wilco Building "). 

Don't miss:  Locally sourced food and drink from the boat bar.  

2.  Seadog River and Lake Architectural Tour

There are few more iconic Chicago sights than seeing the bright yellow Seadog speeding around town. Combining speed and sightseeing, Seadog’s architecture tour whizzes guests past the likes of the Willis Tower and Lyric Opera, all while arming you with an impressive load of facts about the Windy City. And after this blustery 75-minute tour has finished traversing the Chicago River, it ends with a thrilling whizz across Lake Michigan, past Museum Campus, and Grant Park. This one departs from Seadog’s dock at Navy Pier throughout the summer months.

Don't miss:  Local beer, spirits and Garrett's Popcorn at the boat bar.

3.  Wendella: Chicago's Original Family-Friendly Architecture Tour

If you're weighing your options, Wendella's architecture tour (which it claims is Chicago's original ) is another way to explore all of the beautiful structures that line the river. Over the course of the 90-minute tour, you'll navigate all three branches of the Chicago River, while your guide fills you in on the stories behind some of the skyline's most prominent edifices. This tour departs from the Wendella Dock, located at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at the foot of the Wrigley Building.

Don't miss: Live commentary from the tour guide, with material to entertain the whole family. 

4.  1.5-Hour Romantic Sunset Cruise

How do you end the perfect day of sightseeing? With the perfect sunset, obvs. Setting off from Wendella Dock (at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at the foot of the Wrigley Building), this 90-minute cruise will breeze along Lake Michigan as the glint of the sun on Chicago's skyscrapers is replaced by twinkling city lights. 

Don't miss: Toasting to the end of the day with wine, local beer and hand-crafted cocktails.

5.  Tall Ship Windy Architecture & Skyline Sailing Tour

Let the wind carry you to stunning views of the city from aboard the Tall Ship Windy, a four-masted, 148-foot topsail schooner. The 75-minute trip cruise brings guests on a scenic route running along the Lake Michigan shoreline, where you can take in lovely skyline vistas and glimpses of the sunset. Head to the onboard bar to find snacks and drinks for sale. 

Don't miss:  Bring the kids for the special pirate-themed cruise, featuring  tales of swashbuckling  on the Great Lakes.  

6.  Seadog Speedboat Tour

If you balk at the idea of traipsing around museums and galleries all day with just your legs for locomotion, this whistle-stop boat ride is the tour for you. See every worthy Chicago landmark in 30 minutes on Seadog’s speedboat, which can sometimes feel like a floating rollercoaster. Launching from Navy Pier, the captain will efficiently guide you (with a running commentary) around Lake Michigan, past Museum Campus, Magnificent Mile, Grant Park, and more.

Don't miss: Upgrade to the Extreme Thrill Ride, which includes full 360° spins and more. 

7.  Lake Michigan Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

Want to see Chicago from the water but don't have much time to spare? You can peep the skyline in just 30 minutes on Shoreline's Classic Lake Tour, which departs from Navy Pier and boasts some of the best views you'll find on Lake Michigan. The commentary on the city's architecture and history is pre-recorded, so you won't miss out on any information because your guide ran out of time (and if you've heard it before, you can sit back and enjoy those sweet, sweet sights).

Don't miss: Proceeding straight to the boarding line with a barcode that lets you skip the ticket office. 

8.  Lake Michigan Gourmet Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a three-course gourmet dinner on the water in the Odyssey Chicago, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the skyline surrounding you. Departing from Navy Pier, this cruise includes a dinner with freshly prepared entrées, mains, and desserts. The 2.5 or 3-hour ride takes you around Lake Michigan, with a cash bar to keep the drinks flowing throughout your meal.

Don't miss: The live DJ set and unlimited tea and coffee.

9.  Chicago's Lake Michigan Kayak Tour

If you want to couple a workout with your sightseeing, consider touring Lake Michigan by kayak. The rental lasts one hour and if you've never kayaked before, don't worry – tandem kayaks are available for less experienced guests. The meeting point is at Ohio Street Beach and you'll be provided with a life jacket on arrival before paddling out onto Chicago's most incredible river view.

Don't miss: Take a break along the urban beachfront, with the chance to also rent stand-up paddle boards.  

10.  Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch Cruise

If you're looking for dinner with a view, you could do worse than watching the sunset against the skyline aboard this 2.5 or 3-hour Lake Michigan brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise. Grab a group of friends and book a table – ideally one with a window-facing view—for a buffet-style meal before making your way to the dancefloor for an evening of DJ-curated music. Unlimited coffee, tea, and water will be on hand.

Don't miss: Creative signature cocktails at the bar. 

11.  Lake Michigan Odyssey Gourmet Lunch Cruise

Why settle for lunch at a land-bound restaurant when you could eat your meal on Lake Michigan? The Odyssey's lunch cruise includes a three-course meal and all the coffee, hot tea, iced tea and water you can drink. Visit the cash bar to buy wine, beer and cocktails and enjoy the views on this two-hour tour.

Don't miss: Dance on the top deck to tunes played out by the onboard DJ. 

12.  Chicago Fireboat Tours Historical and Architectural Cruise

Hosted on the bright red Fred A. Busse Fireboat – which served the Chicago Fire Department until 1981 – this architectural tour of the Chicago River lasts anywhere from 90 minutes to two hours. A docent will fill you in on the history of buildings lining the river as well as the story of the boat you've boarded, which formerly traveled the city's waterways to fight fires. 

Don't miss: Check out the vintage firefighting artifacts and photos on board. 

13.  Lady Grebe Chicago River Experience

Want to feel extra posh? Grab a group of up to six friends and book a private cruise aboard Lady Grebe, a 48-foot vintage yacht that can be reserved for two-hour trips along the Chicago River. The reservation comes with a premium drinks package and you can also opt to kick things up a notch with picnic baskets full of food or full-service catering. 

Don't miss:  Book a Chicago Architecture Center docent to give a guided tour for an educational twist.

14.  Chicago Electric Boat Company Tour

Go your own way. Be your own captain. That’s what’s on offer with this Chicago River tour. The Chicago Electric Boat Company lets passengers steer the ship themselves (if they’ve got a valid driver’s license and watched a 10-minute tutorial, that is), allowing total freedom on the Windy City’s waterways. If you’re looking to still have some kind of tour, you can hire a personal tour guide—and we haven’t even gotten to the best bit. These boats are all electric, so they’re a little bit more environmentally friendly, too.

Don't miss: Hot tub boat rentals are also available.

15.  Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise Aboard Chicago’s First Lady

There's a reason the Chicago Architecture Foundation's beloved tour has been named the Best Boat Tour in the U.S.  The center’s official tour goes into detail on more than 50 buildings both on the riverfront and beyond. In doing so, they give a fascinating history of the city and those that built it—plus you can easily upgrade your ticket to include entry to just Chicago Architecture Center itself. It’s a proper design enthusiast’s dream. This one leaves from the Chicago First Lady Cruises dock and lasts around 90 minutes. 

Don't miss:  Gather friends for the serene evening cruise for just a few dollars more.

GYG Chicago TTD

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The 7 best chicago boat tours of 2024: river & lake cruises.

Enjoy architectural boat tours, kayak excursions, speedboat rides and more.

Best Chicago Boat Tours

Courtesy of Tall Ship Windy

If you're hoping to see as much of Chicago as you can in a short amount of time, you may want to sign up for a boat tour. During each tour, you'll learn the historical significance of the skyline's iconic buildings while enjoying breathtaking views of the Windy City. Considering traveler reviews and expert opinion, U.S. News selected the best Chicago boat tours, ranging from an architectural boat tour on the river to a thrilling speedboat ride on Lake Michigan.

Editor’s Pick: Wendella Boats – Chicago River Architecture Tour

Price: Adults from $44; kids from $20 Duration: 1.5 hours

U.S. News independently paid to send Cortney Fries , an award-winning writer based in Chicago, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. The Wendella Boats Chicago River Architecture Tour was selected by our team as an Editor’s Pick thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews.

Cruise three branches of the Chicago River as you take in views of famous Chicago landmarks, such as the Willis Tower and Merchandise Mart. A knowledgeable guide provides an overview of the architecture and interesting lessons in Chicago history along the way. For instance, did you know that the Lyric Opera House was built in the shape of a giant throne, or that the Chicago River is the only natural river reversed by humankind? Learn about: the four stars on the Chicago flag and what they represent, the legend of the O’Leary cow starting the Great Chicago Fire, the statue atop the Chicago Board of Trade and Chicago’s famous drawbridges.

Refreshments and snacks are sold on board. Sit on the top deck to listen to the live tour with unobstructed views, but bring a jacket or sun hat if it’s cool or sunny. Climate-controlled seating is offered below, as are restrooms. Tours are generally available daily beginning at 9:30 a.m., with multiple departures throughout the day and evening. If you’re short on time or traveling with kids, the 45-minute version of this architecture tour may be your best option.

Cortney Fries

Why we love it:

• The Chicago River Architecture Tour is one of the best ways to learn about and explore Chicago sans crowds. 
• Guides are engaging, informative and also provide ideas for other places to visit during your trip. 
• Tours depart from Michigan Avenue near the Wrigley Building, where there are plenty of shopping and dining options nearby. Arrive early so you can enjoy the area and give yourself enough time to find parking.

– Cortney Fries

Check prices & availability on:

Tall Ship Windy – Chicago Skyline Sail

Price: Adults from $49; kids from $39 Duration: 75 minutes

Tall Ship Windy's Chicago Skyline Sail introduces you to the beauty and splendor of Chicago's world-famous buildings aboard the company's four-masted schooner. On the sightseeing tour, you'll learn interesting facts about the history of this renowned waterfront and its skyline, as well as the people who built it. Travelers love the experience, describing the crew and the schooner as incredible. They recommend booking one of the sunset sails for photo-worthy views.

Tours depart from Navy Pier daily from May through September at 1, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. Note that the 1 p.m. sail is all about the history of piracy in the area. Tall Ship Windy also offers nighttime cruises on select days to correspond with Navy Pier's seasonal Fireworks at the Pier show.

Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise

Price: Adults from $54; kids from $24 Duration: 1.5 hours

Hop aboard Chicago's First Lady for a tour of the Windy City's spectacular skyline. With one of the Chicago Architecture Center's volunteer docents guiding your trip, you'll learn the architectural and cultural history of more than 50 of Chicago's iconic buildings. Boats are equipped with open-air upper decks, climate-controlled lower cabins, full-service bars and restrooms. Travelers say this architectural boat tour is not to be missed and describe it as a family-friendly experience with spectacular views. They also rave about the insightful, entertaining tour guides who provide a wealth of information.

Cruises generally depart daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., though exact times may vary by day. For an additional $5, you can gain access to the Chicago Architecture Center (which saves you $9 on center admission).

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City Experiences by Hornblower – Chicago Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour

Price: Adults from $35; children from $25 Duration: 30 minutes

This speedboat tour departs from popular Navy Pier, taking travelers on a fast-paced, 30-minute ride along Lake Michigan's shores. During the cruise, an expert guide will share the history of Chicago and the landmarks that created its iconic skyline. Along with the entertaining commentary, you'll enjoy photo-worthy views of lakefront attractions. Reviewers rave about the tour, saying that the views are superb and the speedboat makes for a thrilling ride.

The tour, which operates from March through October or early November, departs hourly every day starting as early as 11 a.m.; exact departure times vary by day. Keep in mind that the tour is not recommended for pregnant women or people with neck or back injuries. Prefer a more low-key ride? The company also offers brunch, lunch and dinner cruises on larger vessels, along with architectural boat tours.

Urban Kayaks – Historic Chicago Tour

Price: Singles from $65; tandems from $130 Duration: 2 hours

Travelers angling for an active way to see the Chicago River should book this guided kayak outing. You'll learn about Chicago's contemporary urban landscape – and the historical significance of many of its buildings – while you paddle alongside an expert guide. What's more, the tour is suitable for novice and experienced kayakers alike. According to the company, you should expect to get wet and will want to dress accordingly. Reviewers enjoy seeing the city from their kayaks and say you'll pass beautiful and romantic views along the way. They also appreciate the attentive, friendly guides.

Tours are available daily at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. from May through September. If you'd rather paddle the lake, consider renting a kayak from the company or signing up for its paddleboarding class.

Shoreline Sightseeing – Skyline Lake Tour

Price: Adults from $30; kids from $12 Duration: 30 minutes

Sit back, relax and take in the dramatic scenery of the Chicago skyline with this tour of Lake Michigan. The prerecorded narration will help you learn about Chicago's most famous buildings, such as the Willis Tower, and how they came to life. Along the short cruise, you'll have just enough time to take in the views and enjoy a drink or snack from the bar. Visitors love the tour for the views and history lesson, though some complain it was difficult to hear the narration from the back of the boat. They also advise future riders to bring a jacket because it gets cold on the water.

Tours depart daily in the spring, summer and early fall multiple times a day, weather permitting. Shoreline Sightseeing also offers architecture tours on the Chicago River.

Tours & Boats – 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

Price: Adults from $49; kids from $25 Duration: 1.5 hours

Tour-takers say this boat ride is entertaining and educational thanks to the informed guides. You'll see Chicago's many famous buildings up close as guides tell stories of the city's history. Plus, the tour takes you to the locks on the river's main branch, Chinatown in the south and Goose Island in the north.

Cruise departures vary by month and day. Boats depart from River City Marina, which is about a mile west of Grant Park. For several reviewers, the boat's departure point was another reason to book with Tours & Boats as it offers better parking options than some of the other river cruise companies in the city. Tours & Boats also operates private tours.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Chicago Tours
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Tours and Boats

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Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Tours and Boats - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

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We had a great experience right from boarding on the boat until the end. The staff and tour guide were very friendly, fun and importantly very well versed with the history of Chicago architecture. This made the experience a lot better.

Everyone had great fun. It was informational, nerdy and witty. It's been 6 months since my visit, and yet I can remember the details on Chicago's architectural history and it's many bridges.

Summer of George!! If the name doesn’t reel you in, the experience will. I learned so much about Chicago’s architecture. The tour guide was knowledgeable and entertaining. The downstairs bar provides refreshing beverages to enjoy during the tour. The overall experience was one of the highlights of my Chicago trip!

Came to Chicago to do everything and we did. However, the best thing we did was this tour. Even with small kids it did not feel like 90 minutes. There were enough breaks, more than plenty laughs and we related back to this tour the rest of the trip. We will be doing this tour again!

The Architecture tour was truly a great way to experience Chicago's history and culture. Our tour guide was extremely informative and passionate, and very witty. He made the whole experience very enjoyable! And the breathtaking view of the magnificent skyscrapers from the river can never disappoint you. I highly recommend this tour!

The tour guide was amazing. Very well versed on the history of Chicago, architecture, and very funny too. We had tema great time!!

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Chicago’s Best 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

Upper and Lower Decks with 360° Views

Guided Tour With Expert Commentary

Discover the History Behind the Architecture

Behold the architecture that makes the city of Chicago famous! On our 90-minute boat charter, your tour guide will teach you about the monuments that have survived the years. Get to know the Windy City from the water and admire the extraordinary vistas as we cruise gently along.

Discover the unique story of Chicago by learning about the architectural marvels that line its shores.

Listen to in-depth commentary from your tour guide about the different artistic styles used throughout the decades.

Get a first-hand glimpse at the buildings mentioned from the ship’s open-air upper deck or its enclosed, air-conditioned main deck.

Admire incredible city panoramas from all sides with the ship’s 360° viewing capabilities.

The only tour that goes all the way to the locks on the main branch, Chinatown on the south branch, & Goose Island on the north branch. You’ll see the most on this tour.

Capture amazing skyline photos from your unique onboard position.

Click the tabs to find out more

Trip details.

• Good To Know

Key Information

Price per person.

Seniors (ages 55+), Military, Veterans, COVID-19 Healthcare Workers, and First Responders: $25.00 Students (ages 4 to 17): $25.00 Children (ages 3 and under): Free, but needs a registered ticket

Groups of 10 or more adults: Please see our group cruises and tours page to learn more about discounts.

Departure time

Exact departure times can be found on our ticket page . Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

Ticketed passengers must be boarded 10 minutes before departure time , as standby boarding starts 10 minutes before scheduled departure. Ticketed passengers who arrive late will be placed at the end of the standby line. There are no refunds for those who arrive late.

Meeting point

“Summer of George” docked at River City Marina 900 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607 Upon Arrival, follow these directions .

We typically operate from May to October. However, please check our calendar for exact availability.

Discover Chicago’s Architecture From A New Angle

Chicago river tour.

Our 90-minute boat tour on the Chicago River is our most popular choice! This tour goes in depth into the history of the Windy City’s architecture. We’ll pass by well-known structures like the Wrigley Building —a terra-cotta building inspired by the Seville Cathedral’s bell tower —as well as modern additions like Trump Tower. Even if you’re not an architecture buff, you’ll enjoy learning about how Chicago’s construction goes hand in hand with its history. Enjoy commentary by our expert guides and discover the buildings that make up the famous skyline . We’re excited to take you on a journey through Chicago’s past.

Enjoy our 90-minute architecture boat ride that will start at our docking location and take you to all 3 parts of the river. We begin at the “Summer of George” docks, travel the main branch up to the river locks, via the north branch to Goose Island, and down the south branch to Chinatown before returning to the starting point.

Other Important Information

• All guests including children and babies need a ticket to board.
• All tickets are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled.
• All event tickets are general admission, and there is no assigned seating .
• Please arrive early if you’d like to be seated with your group.
• Our tours operate rain or shine so please do not contact us to inquire if the tour will be canceled. Unless you receive a cancellation email from us, please assume the tour will go on as scheduled. In the event of rain, you may bring a poncho or an umbrella. There is also an interior deck on the boat.
• Due to unforeseen circumstances, a tour may get canceled. In the event of a cancellation, we will provide you with a credit for a future tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our dock is located at the River City Marina at 900 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607 . To get here, guests need to head south on Wells Street and enter through the parking lot behind the River City condominium building. The parking lot is located across from the soccer field on 9th Street and Wells. Please note that you do NOT need to go into the building to find us. Once you arrive, we will complete your registration in the parking lot before embarking. Please note that the cruise starts and finishes at this location.

One of the perks of booking an architecture boat cruise with Tours & Boats is that parking is relatively easy to find! There is a parking lot located at the marina , and it costs around $10 . For more information, please see our detailed guide here . However, please note that it is possible for the parking lot to fill up early, and we are not responsible in the event that you are unable to find a spot . For this reason, we recommend arriving early so that you can find alternate parking, should the need arise.

If the date you want is not listed on the calendar, this means our boat is reserved for a private event. However, we do sometimes add new cruise dates or times if an opening becomes available, so please check back often.

Yes. Even though children age 3 and under are free, you need to register them for a ticket. This is because the Coast Guard counts all human passengers on the boat.

Please see our other FAQs for more information.

See what our guests are saying.

We had a great time on this tour. The captain had a great sense of humor and the tour guide was very knowledgeable. She not only talked about the architecture of the building style but had some great history and facts about them as well. We were even able to enjoy this with our toddler along for the ride! Would highly recommend for adults and families of all ages!

We had a great informational time on the tour. So many buildings, so little time! Even at 90 minutes the tour seemed to fly by. Our guide, Sean, did a great job keeping the same pace as the boat describing each building in great detail, builders, architects, year, styles, and revisions.

If you only have time for 1 thing to do while you are in Chicago, the architectural boat tour is it! So educational, pleasant and interesting. I really enjoyed it. The guide was incredible with the amount of knowledge he had of the buildings and the city and he weaved it into really engaging stories.

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What travellers are saying.

Tours and Boats

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Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

TOURS AND BOATS (Chicago) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

The 5 Best Chicago Architecture Boat Tours [2024 Reviews]

Welcome to the Windy City, where mob bosses once roamed, delicious food runs rampant, and architectural marvels rise along the beautiful Chicago River.

Without a doubt, the best way to enjoy the latter is from the water, the way that locals and tourists have been doing for hundreds of years. I’ve gone on quite a few, and I’m here to bring you a carefully-curated list of easily the top 5 currently out there.

These top Chicago architecture river boat tours will teach you all about the city’s architectural evolution from the late 19th century to the present, allowing you to marvel at the wide array of grandiose designs. I know you’re eager to get started, so let’s jump right in!

Be sure to see our reviews of Chicago Dinner Cruises .

Best Chicago Architecture Boat Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best rated architecture boat tours in chicago for 2024.

• Chicago River Architecture Cruise
• Premier Chicago River Architectural Lunch Cruise
• Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise Aboard Chicago’s First Lady
• Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour
• Chicago Architecture Boat Tour

Chicago Architecture River Tour Reviews

1. chicago river architecture cruise.

• Duration: 75 minutes (60 minutes from November 1st to April 15th)
• Departure:  124 N Streeter Dr, Chicago
• Departure Time: Between 10:00 AM to 9:15 PM
• Includes:  Architecture river cruise,  Live commentary,  A barcoded ticket allowing you to skip the ticket office and proceed directly to the boarding line

If you have yourself in the bustling metropolis of Chicago, a city whose architectural designs have influenced skylines all over the globe, you have to try this first tour.

This state-of-the-art cruise guarantee a unique adventure led by experts who will share with you some of the most fascinating secrets this legendary city has to offer. If that sounds like fun to you, make sure to give the Chicago River Architecture Cruise a go!

Depending on which option you select, you’ll either depart from Michigan Ave or right from Navy Pier – both of which are convenient if you’re staying anywhere near the Loop.

Hop onboard the sleek vessel and set off on a voyage that covers all 3 branches of the Chicago River as your knowledgeable guide leads the way. Should you have any questions, they’re there to help!

You’ll sail past famous buildings such as the John Hancock building, Trump Tower, Marina City’s iconic corn cob-shaped dual towers, and of course, the mighty Willis Tower.

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Learn about the history behind each one, as well as some not-so-well-known facts and anecdotes you may not have known about. With a cash bar on board, you’ll have plenty of soft drinks and cocktails, beer, and wine to sip on as you enjoy the Chicago splendor.

If you have an hour or so free on the first day you get to the city, I highly recommend going on this tour. It offers so much character and insight into what makes it tick, as well as so many tales of triumph that you may just feel that positively contagious energy, too.

I had no prior knowledge of Chicago before this tour, and I can positively say that I had fallen in love with it within minutes of embarking!

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. premier chicago river architectural lunch cruise.

• Duration: 2 hours
• Departure: 455 N Cityfront Plaza Dr, Chicago
• Departure Time: 12:30 PM
• Includes: Lunch, coffee and/or tea

Next up, we have another fantastic river cruise that’s a bit more “intensive” than our first. The Premer Chicago River Architectural Lunch Cruise  is the perfect way to spend an afternoon and a much better alternative to grabbing lunch at a regular restaurant.

This tour is perfect for any time of year, showcasing the beautiful city at its very best throughout the centuries accompanied by a delicious meal.

Meet your guide and the rest of your group in downtown Chicago, where you’ll hop on the “Odyssey” – a glass-enclosed boat perfect for exploring the city in rain or shine.

It’s not only one of the most beautiful boats out there, but is also one of the best for enjoying 360 views without any obstructions. I immediately noticed how clean the vessel was, and the tables were all spaced out so that we had enough space without feeling off by ourselves.

As you meander along the majestic waterway, you’ll experience all of the city’s best architectural sights on each side of the river as you enjoy a tasty 3-course lunch.

I was a bit surprised at just how delicious it was, with a salad to start, and a choice of the chicken, salmon, pasta, or tender short ribs as the main dish. Oh my, the dessert of cheesecake was wonderfully creamy and decadent, but the sorbet looked very refreshing and nice for a hot summer day.

As you enjoy your perfectly-timed dishes, take in the looming skyscrapers like the Willis Tower or the Tribune Tower, along with the Merchandise Mart, Chicago Opera Theater, Union Station, and the legendary Navy Pier.

As you pass each landmark, the guides are there to recount their histories and important events that have taken place at each one. Whether you’re there for a romantic outing or want to bring the entire family along, this is the perfect excursion!

3. Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise Aboard Chicago’s First Lady

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Departure: 112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago
• Departure Time: Between 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Includes: Live commentary on board, local guide, river sightseeing cruise

Our next voyage is one of the best for exploring the intricate designs influenced by the mighty Chicago River and the city’s dramatic history. The river and its architecture, themselves, have been witness to the ebb and flow of its industry, transportation, revitalization, and recreation.

If you really want to learn about its revolutionary stories of resilience and are on a budget, the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise Aboard Chicago’s First Lady Tour is one of your best bets.

Your tour will kickstart with the Chicago Architecture Center, which is known for being a bastion of knowledge surrounding the celebration and promotion of the Windy City as a center of architectural innovation.

You will just see it from the water and hear about its story on this tour, but if you decide to go back to check out the interior, you’ll get a discounted admission of just $5 when you show your river cruise ticket.

The Navy Pier was one of the highlights of the tour for me and hearing how it has been used as the obvious naval base and shipping hub, to a present-day hotspot for entertainment was quite fascinating.

Marina City was also quite interesting, and you’ll learn all about how it was used to bring back more middle-class inhabitants. The Trump International Hotel always commands attention with its shiny exterior that begs to have photos taken of it.

There are plenty of other fascinating landmarks you’ll see and learn about, but the Willis Tower was definitely one of the most interesting for me. If you’d like to see some aerial views of Chicago, make sure to check out the Skydeck located there.

This is such a fantastic way to get the lay of the land and learn about the important metropolis, that you have to add it to your list!

4. Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour

• Departure: 465 N McClurg Ct, Chicago
• Departure Time: Between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Includes: Local guide, port pickup and drop-off, bottled water, coffee and/or tea

Next up, we have yet another amazingly affordable excursion if you’d like to see some of the best CHI town has to offer. I’ve been on a ton of different types of Chicago tours, and river cruises like this one never fail to impress me or anyone else I’m with.

The Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour  packs in a ton of fun, history, exciting tales, and beauty in just 1.5 hours so there’s no reason to miss it!

Please don’t wait until one of your last days in Chicago to do this tour! If you’re going to take any advice, please let it be that you need to take this on the first day you’re there.

The incredibly knowledgeable, creative, kind, funny guides will create a masterpiece of an experience for you, making anyone excited to be in the Windy City.

Expanding on this aspect, the guides are all born-and-raised Chicagoans who are passionate about promoting their city and making everyone feel like family, which they do seemingly effortlessly.

Meet at the pier or get picked up at the port and hop onboard, where you’ll get to enjoy complimentary bottled water, coffee, and/or tea as you enjoy the amazing views of the city and river. If you’d like, there’s also a little bar on board for you to purchase beer, wine, and cocktails!

Here, you’ll learn all about the influential landmarks that line the river, including various skyscrapers, the lively Navy Pier, and the infamous “Bean”/Cloud Gate. I loved being able to see the 100-year-old Art Deco buildings which are simply timeless, along with various Neo-Classical and Gothic designs.

For any architecture or history buff, or anyone who can appreciate art, this is for you.

5. Chicago Architecture Boat Tour

• Departure: 900 S Wells St, Chicago
• Departure Time: Between 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Includes:  Restroom on board, Outside seating available, Seating is first come first serve basis, Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River, Fully enclosed interior with air conditioning, seats, & windows

Whether you’re a seeker of architectural beauty or would simply like to learn more about Chicago’s wild history, you’re in the right place here. From old-school gems to modern-day marvels, you’ll dive right into the history of Chicago that’s carved into its skyline and the very fabric of the city, itself.

If you’re ready to be mesmerized and maybe even fall in love with it, then sign right up for the Chicago Architecture Boat Tour !

You’ll meet your guides right at the river, so you can hop on the boat and get situated for a fun time. You may know that while the Windy City was nicknamed such due to its locals being “full of hot air”, it’s no secret that the wind coming off of Lake Michigan is no joke.

With this tour, you get to ride in a boat that offers a fully-enclosed interior complete with climate control, seats, and windows so that no one is freezing while enjoying these picturesque views.

The live narration was simply impeccable, bringing to life each famous landmark’s intriguing history – many of which are lessons we’d never have learned in school!

Cruise on by both modern-day and historic buildings such as the Civic Opera House, the Wrigley Building, and Willis Tower, with some of the best viewpoints possible.

I had a ton of fun with the guides as they offered trivia about the various structures, which also seemed to bring the entire group together nicely.

Luckily for me, it was perfect weather when we went, so we were also able to enjoy the unreal vistas from the uncovered deck. Passing by Navy Pier and being able to hear the happy voices and laughs of visitors as we passed by was pretty enjoyable, too.

Overall, this is a must-do on any visit to Chicago if you’re serious about learning more about its architectural significance throughout the centuries. 

FAQs About Chicago architecture boat tours

What are some examples of chicago architecture i will see.

Willis Tower : AKA the Sears Tower, this 1,450-foot-tall building was the tallest building in the world for 25 years. It features a distinctive stepped design and a glass observation deck called the Skydeck that offers panoramic views of the city.

875 North Michigan Avenue : Also known by its former name, the John Hancock Center, this 1,128-foot-tall skyscraper is a striking example of structural expressionism, with its X-shaped braces and tapered shape. It has a 360-degree observation deck, a restaurant, and a lounge on the 94th to 96th floors.

Aon Center : This 1,136-foot-tall office tower is clad in white granite and has a minimalist appearance. It was originally covered in marble, but it had to be replaced due to safety issues. It is planning to add an observatory and a glass elevator on its south facade.

Wrigley Building : This elegant building consists of two towers connected by walkways and is inspired by the Giralda tower of Seville Cathedral. The clock tower and terra-cotta facade are lit up at night. It was ahead of its time being the first air-conditioned office building in Chicago.

The Rookery : It is one of the oldest standing skyscrapers in Chicago and a great example of design from the Chicago School of architecture. It has a load-bearing masonry exterior and a steel frame interior. It also has a stunning two-story lobby that was remodeled by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1905.

Aqua Tower : This modern skyscraper is known for its undulating balconies that create a wave-like effect. It is designed by Jeanne Gang, one of Chicago’s most prominent architects. It is currently a mixed use building with a mixture of apartments, a hotel, offices and retail.

How much do the boat tours cost?

The cost of the boat tours depends on the length of the tour, time of the day and whether of not lunch or dinner are included. A 1.5 hour daytime cruise is about $50. If you opt for an evening cruise with dinner you can expect to pay about $100.

How long are the boat tours?

The boat tours are usually 90 minutes. If you do a tour that includes lunch or dinner they are about 2 to 2.5 hours long. Most of them cover more than 50 buildings along the Chicago River, from historic landmarks to modern skyscrapers.

What is the best Chicago architecture boat tour?

If you can afford the extra money and would like to enjoy lunch on your tour we recommend the Premier Chicago River Architectural Lunch Cruise . This tour offers a delicious buffet style lunch on a smaller boat so you can get up close and personal with the buildings you will be seeing.

What is the cheapest architecture boat tour in Chicago?

If you are on a strict budget but still want to see Chicago from the water we recommend the Chicago Architecture Boat Tour . This is a fairly standard 1.5 hour tour but its on a bigger boat so it’s not as personal as the smaller boats nor do you get lunch.

Boat Comfort

The Chicago River Architecture Cruise is our Editors Choice for the best Chicago Architecture boat tour.

Robert Baker

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THE 10 BEST Chicago Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in chicago.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Water Sports
• Speed Boats Tours
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Swim with Dolphins
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• City Experiences By Hornblower
• Adler Planetarium
• Chicago Skyline
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Chicago Architecture River Cruise

2. Chicago River 90-Minute History and Architecture Tour

3. Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

4. Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

5. Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in Chicago

6. Chicago River Architecture Tour with Small Boat Upgrade Option

7. Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

8. Small Group Lake Michigan Tour

9. Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

10. Chicago River Cocktail Cruise

11. Chicago 3D Fireworks Cruise

12. Chicago Buffet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

13. Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago

14. Chicago by Night: 90 Minute River and Lakefront Cruise

15. Chicago Skyline Sunset Sail Aboard a Tall Ship

16. Private Lake Michigan Sailing Charter and Sightseeing Tour of Chicago

17. Lake Michigan 30-Minute Speedboat Ride

18. Chicago Skyline Tall Ship Sightseeing Cruise

19. Chicago Urban Adventure River and Lake Cruise

20. Chicago Skyline Tiki Chic Party Cruise Lock and Lake

21. Chicago Buffet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

22. Premier Chicago River Dinner Cruise

23. Chicago River Architecture Tour Aboard a Historic Yacht

24. Chicago Educational Tour and Sail Aboard a Tall Ship

25. Lake Michigan Fireworks Cruise in Chicago

26. Chicago City Tour with Architecture River Cruise Option

27. Best of Chicago Small-Group Tour with Skydeck and River Cruise

28. Lake Michigan and Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Speedboat

29. Chicago Private Sunset Sail on Lake Michigan

30. Private Lake Michigan Sailing Charter and Sightseeing Chicago Skyline Cruise

What travellers are saying.

THE 10 BEST Chicago Boat Tours

Boat tours in chicago.

• Sports Camps & Clinics
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chicago Skyline
• Adler Planetarium
• Buckingham Fountain
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Chicago Architecture River Cruise

2. Chicago River 90-Minute History and Architecture Tour

3. Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

4. Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

5. Chicago River Architecture Tour with Small Boat Upgrade Option

6. Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

7. Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

8. Chicago 3D Fireworks Cruise

9. Chicago Buffet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

10. Small Group Lake Michigan Tour

11. Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago

12. Chicago by Night: 90 Minute River and Lakefront Cruise

13. Chicago Skyline Sunset Sail Aboard a Tall Ship

14. Private Lake Michigan Sailing Charter and Sightseeing Tour of Chicago

15. Lake Michigan 30-Minute Speedboat Ride

16. Chicago Skyline Tall Ship Sightseeing Cruise

17. Chicago Urban Adventure River and Lake Cruise

18. Chicago Skyline Tiki Chic Party Cruise Lock and Lake

19. Chicago Educational Tour and Sail Aboard a Tall Ship

20. Lake Michigan Fireworks Cruise in Chicago

21. Lake Michigan and Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Speedboat

22. Chicago Private Sunset Sail on Lake Michigan

23. Private Lake Michigan Sailing Charter and Sightseeing Chicago Skyline Cruise

24. Chicago Fireworks Dinner Cruise with Buffet

25. Chicago Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

26. Chicago River Architectural Lunch Cruise

27. Private Evening Sail in Chicago Ending with Navy Pier Fireworks

28. Small-Group Sightseeing Boat Tour in Chicago

29. Chicago Fireworks Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

30. Chicago's Lake Michigan Plated Lunch Cruise

What travellers are saying.

THE 10 BEST Chicago Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in chicago.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Water Sports
• Speed Boats Tours
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Swim with Dolphins
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• City Experiences By Hornblower
• Adler Planetarium
• Chicago Skyline
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Chicago Architecture River Cruise

2. Chicago River 90-Minute History and Architecture Tour

3. Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

4. Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

5. Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in Chicago

6. Chicago River Architecture Tour with Small Boat Upgrade Option

7. Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

8. Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

9. Small Group Lake Michigan Tour

10. Chicago River Cocktail Cruise

11. Chicago 3D Fireworks Cruise

12. Chicago Buffet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

13. Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago

14. Chicago by Night: 90 Minute River and Lakefront Cruise

15. Chicago Skyline Sunset Sail Aboard a Tall Ship

16. Private Lake Michigan Sailing Charter and Sightseeing Tour of Chicago

17. Lake Michigan 30-Minute Speedboat Ride

18. Chicago Skyline Tall Ship Sightseeing Cruise

19. Chicago Urban Adventure River and Lake Cruise

20. Chicago Skyline Tiki Chic Party Cruise Lock and Lake

21. Chicago Buffet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

22. Premier Chicago River Dinner Cruise

23. Chicago River Architecture Tour Aboard a Historic Yacht

24. Chicago Educational Tour and Sail Aboard a Tall Ship

25. Lake Michigan Fireworks Cruise in Chicago

26. Chicago City Tour with Architecture River Cruise Option

27. Best of Chicago Small-Group Tour with Skydeck and River Cruise

28. Lake Michigan and Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Speedboat

29. Chicago Private Sunset Sail on Lake Michigan

30. Private Lake Michigan Sailing Charter and Sightseeing Chicago Skyline Cruise

What travellers are saying.

Help Chicago win Best Big City 2024! Vote now 🏆

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.

From this article

Tours & Attractions

Chicago architecture center.

Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline

Shoreline Sightseeing Company

Streeterville

Special Event Venues

Free spirit yacht cruises.

Urban Kayaks

River North

Wendella Tours & Cruises

The Magnificent Mile

Chicago’s First Lady Cruises

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