Cruises & Water Tours in Chicago

Chicago River 90 Minute Architecture Tour (opens in a new tab)

11,325 1 h 30 min

Be inspired by the captivating, visual art that is Chicago’s legendary architecture, and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing, dynamic legacy for all to enjoy and admire. This comprehensive 90 minute tour will navigate through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River while your professionally-trained architectural guide tells the story of more than 130 years of innovation in design, style and technique and why it is important today. The Chicago River Architecture Tour is the most authentic and encompassing Chicago experience the city has to offer.

Free cancellation

Chicago Architecture River Cruise (opens in a new tab)

17,222 1 h – 1 h 15 min

Experience the stunning beauty of Chicago on a captivating cruise along the historic Chicago River. This architectural tour takes you down the main branch of the river, up the north branch to the East Bank Club, and then south past the iconic Willis Tower (Sears Tower) to the historic Old Post Office Building. Marvel at the magnificent city skyline as you pass by over 40 notable buildings, including: John Hancock Center: An iconic skyscraper that defines the Chicago skyline. Wrigley Building: Known for its distinctive white facade and clock tower. As you sail, an expert architecture guide will provide fascinating insights into the distinctive designs and history of these architectural marvels. Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time, this tour offers a unique perspective on one of the world's most beautiful cities. Sit back, relax, and let the architectural wonders of Chicago unfold before your eyes.

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile (opens in a new tab)

3,780 45 min

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. Hop aboard our world class vessels as our local authentic tour guides showcase our amazing city.

Free cancellation

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady (opens in a new tab)

7,646 1 h 30 min

The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady has long been the gold standard among all Chicago tour experiences, and is the only Chicago architecture boat tour led by highly trained expert docents. On this 90-minute cruise, you will enjoy an overview of historic and modern architectural styles including stories about the people who designed and built Chicago. As a certified nonprofit, all ticket purchases directly support education efforts and community engagement projects. No visit to Chicago is complete without experiencing this award winning tour, so accept no substitutes.

Chicago By Night River and Lake Cruise (opens in a new tab)

468 1 h 30 min

Glide along the Chicago River and Lakefront as you're dazzled by the sparkle of the city at night! Enjoy breathtaking views of the dramatic skyscrapers and Buckingham Fountain's spectacular light display. Hear lively commentary as you feel the night breeze and see Chicago’s skyline transformed into a glittering jewel. A one-of-a-kind experience to scratch off your Chicago bucket list. Family-friendly cruises are our specialty!

Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour (opens in a new tab)

2,493 1 h 30 min

An authentic Chicago tradition since 1935, this is the tour that started it all. This unique excursion tells the story of more than 200 years of fascinating social, cultural and political history, and explores more than a century of groundbreaking architecture. The journey begins with an up-close perspective of Chicago's internationally-known architecture as seen from the Chicago River. Then venture through the Chicago Lock on to the calm, cool waters of Lake Michigan for expansive views of Chicago's extraordinary 26-mile skyline. Take the selfie of a lifetime on this inspirational experience!

Free cancellation

Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago (opens in a new tab)

956 30 min – 45 min

Embark on an unforgettable journey along Lake Michigan and marvel at Chicago's iconic lakefront sights and attractions. Cruise along Lake Michigan and enjoy stunning views of Chicago's renowned skyscrapers from a unique vantage point. This tour offers an amazing opportunity to admire the city's breathtaking skyline and architectural wonders. Sunday – Friday Cruises departing prior to 8:00pm feature recorded narration of the city’s skyline, cruises departing after 8:00pm enjoy some music and the sounds of Lake Michigan aboard our Groove Cruise. November - April 9 tours are 30 minutes. Highlights: Spectacular views of Chicago's famous skyscrapers Onboard bar serving refreshing drinks Relaxing and enjoyable sightseeing cruise Experience Chicago like never before on this serene and scenic Lake Michigan boat tour. Remember to bring your camera to capture those social media worthy photos!

Chicago Seadog River & Lake Architectural Tour (opens in a new tab)

317 1 h 15 min

Soak in unobstructed views of Chicago’s world-famous architecture from the water with an exciting ride on our Seadog River and Lake Architectural Tour! Sail through the Chicago Harbor Locks to the River’s iconic skyscrapers. Enjoy amusing and informative narration for a fascinating tour through the city’s architectural history as you pass the Civic Opera House, the Merchandise Mart, and the Willis Tower. Buckle up for a thrilling finale on Lake Michigan to top off this family and dog-friendly experience and cruise along the skyline at top Seadog speed!

City Cruises Chicago: Premier Plus Brunch Cruise on Chicago River (opens in a new tab)

89 2 h

Sail along the magnificent skyline on our Premier Plus Chicago Brunch Cruise. A chef-curated menu of plated brunch specials will delight your palate while unparalleled panoramas of the city’s iconic architecture are marveled at from our glass-enclosed vessel. Enjoy the awe-inspiring views of landmarks such as the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and the Old Chicago Post Office in the comfortable interior or from the open-air spaces. This upscale experience on the Chicago River is complete with bottomless mimosas and a fully stocked cash bar, light architectural narration, masterful DJ entertainment, and exceptional service. Elevate your weekend with an unforgettable afternoon brunch cruise against a backdrop of Chicago’s most spectacular scenery.

Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in Chicago (opens in a new tab)

1,735 1 h 30 min

The Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise departs near the DuSable (Michigan Avenue) Bridge on Wendella's world class tour boats. The Cruise will navigate from the Chicago River, through the Chicago Lock and out onto Lake Michigan. Watch the sun slowly set behind the city from the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan on this serene and romantic cruise.

Free cancellation

Chicago City Minibus Tour (opens in a new tab)

691 2 h

Uncover the Windy City on Chicago’s premier guided minibus tour! Discover 20+ top landmarks with curated photo stops at Cloud Gate ("The Bean"), Museum Campus, and the historic Palmer House. Begin outside the Palmer House, birthplace of the brownie, and see Frank Lloyd Wright’s design at the Rookery. View icons like Willis Tower and Soldier Field while your guide shares local history. Step off at Buckingham Fountain and Museum Campus for skyline panoramas over Lake Michigan and Navy Pier. Pass cultural sights like Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum. Capture photos beneath "The Bean," see the Chicago River, and drive down Michigan Avenue past the historic Water Tower, Gold Coast brownstones, and Playboy Mansion.

Chicago CityPASS® (opens in a new tab)

542 9 days

Experience 5 top attractions and save up to 50% with Chicago CityPASS® tickets. One simple purchase removes the stress of planning, so you can relax and enjoy your memories in the making. With 9 days to use your tickets, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the best sights. Chicago CityPASS® bundles one-time admission to 5 attractions. Includes: • Chicago's Famous Aquarium • Skydeck Chicago Plus choose 3 more attractions. • Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour • Field Museum • 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck • Griffin Museum of Science and Industry • Art Institute of Chicago • Adler Planetarium

Historical and Architectural Chicago Fireboat River & Lake Cruise (opens in a new tab)

516 2 h

Travel on a piece of history, learning Chicago fire history as well as Architecture! We travel on Lake Michigan and through the Chicago River seeing the sights. Perfect for Fire enthusiasts, families and everyone in between! Our flagship vessel is a retired Chicago fire boat, the Fred A Busse, Engine 41, which served Chicago from 1937 to 1981. Firefighter patches from around the world and memorabilia from Engine 41's time in service, adorn the walls inside the cabin.

Luxury Minibus Chicago City Tour with Architecture Cruise Upgrade (opens in a new tab)

20 2 h

Experience the ultimate Windy City adventure on Chicago’s luxury guided minibus tour! Explore 20+ top landmarks with curated photo stops at Cloud Gate "The Bean", Museum Campus, & the historic Palmer House. Start at the Palmer House, birthplace of the brownie, & see Frank Lloyd Wright’s work at the Rookery. Pass soaring icons like Willis Tower & Soldier Field while learning the rich history behind each landmark. Hop off at Buckingham Fountain & Museum Campus for views of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier, & the skyline. Pass cultural icons like Shedd Aquarium & the Field Museum. Snap photos beneath "The Bean" at Millennium Park, view the Chicago River, & cruise down the Magnificent Mile past the Water Tower, Gold Coast brownstones, & Playboy Mansion. UPGRADE YOUR TOUR: Select the Architectural River Cruise option at checkout for the ultimate land & river experience! 75-minute cruise offered during summer (April – October) 60-minute cruise offered during winter (November – April)

Chicago City Tour with Architecture River Cruise Option (opens in a new tab)

747 2 h – 4 h

Uncover the Windy City on Chicago’s premier guided minibus tour! Discover 20+ top landmarks with photo stops at Cloud Gate "The Bean", Museum Campus, & the historic Palmer House. Begin at the Palmer House, birthplace of the brownie, & see Frank Lloyd Wright’s design at the Rookery. View icons like Willis Tower & Soldier Field while learning local history. Step off at Buckingham Fountain & Museum Campus for skyline views over Lake Michigan & Navy Pier. Pass cultural sights like Shedd Aquarium & the Field Museum. Capture photos beneath "The Bean", see the Chicago River, & drive down Michigan Avenue past the Water Tower, Gold Coast brownstones, & Playboy Mansion. UPGRADE YOUR TOUR: Select the Architectural River Cruise option at checkout to admire 40+ skyscrapers with live narration, the ultimate land & river experience! 75-minute cruise offered during summer (April – October) 60-minute cruise offered during winter (November – April)

City Cruises Chicago: Signature Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan (opens in a new tab)

388 2 h

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon on Lake Michigan with a Signature Chicago Lunch Cruise. Whether it’s a family outing or a meal with friends, upgrade your lunch with a chef-prepared buffet and sweeping views of Chicago’s iconic landmarks, such as Adler Planetarium and Navy Pier. This fun and relaxed lunch cruise experience is complete with live DJ entertainment, a fully stocked cash bar, dancing, and games on the open-air decks and indoor spaces. Set sail for a one-of-a-kind afternoon that is as scenic as it is delicious!

Free cancellation

City Cruises Chicago: Premier Lake Michigan Brunch Cruise (opens in a new tab)

33 2 h

Enjoy a picturesque day dining on Lake Michigan with our Premier Chicago Brunch Cruise. You’ll indulge in a chef-prepared buffet meal featuring savory and sweet classics, bottomless mimosas, top-notch service, and breathtaking views of the city skyline, all while our live DJ sets the mood. Capture photos in front of Chicago’s famous landmarks, such as Adler Planetarium and Willis Tower, and soak in the sweeping panoramic views from the comfort of our comfortable indoor spaces and open-air decks. Join us for a spectacular brunch cruise that will not be forgotten. Includes 2-hour brunch cruise on Lake Michigan Chef-prepared buffet-style dining Bottomless mimosas (must be 21 or older with valid ID) Spectacular views of the Chicago skyline including the Willis Tower and Adler Planetarium DJ curated music Guaranteed table for your party size Complimentary coffee, hot tea, and iced tea

Chicago Architecture River Tour & Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour (opens in a new tab)

53 2 h

Save 20% when you bundle these two iconic Chicago experiences! Discover Chicago by road and river with a 48-hour Hop-on Hop-off Ticket and Shoreline Architecture Cruise combo! This ticket includes a 48-hour pass for our hop-on, hop-off Chicago sightseeing bus tour, and a pass for admission to Shoreline Sightseeing's must-do Architecture River Cruise! You'll see the city's world-famous architecture from iconic streets like Magnificent Mile, Lake Shore Drive, State Street, Clark Street and Grand Ave, and from all three branches of the Chicago River. Create your own itinerary and explore at your own pace with unlimited bus exit and entry. Over 40 Chicago landmarks await you on the Shoreline Architecture Cruise, from hidden architectural treasures to the city’s most famous landmarks. Expert live guides explain how Chicago’s buildings, architecture and engineering made the city famous.

Lake Michigan 30 Minute Speedboat Ride (opens in a new tab)

360 30 min

Enjoy Chicago’s iconic skyline with an exciting speedboat Tour on Lake Michigan. Departing from Navy Pier, the Lakefront Speedboat Tour is the best way to view Chicago from the water. Seadog offers fun for the whole family (and the dog, too!) combining an exciting speedboat ride along the shoreline with informative and amusing descriptions of the world-famous Chicago skyline!

City Cruises Chicago: Signature Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan (opens in a new tab)

9 2 h

Set sail for a memorable experience on Lake Michigan with a Signature Chicago Brunch Cruise that is as scenic as it is delicious! You'll savor a chef-prepared buffet and bottomless mimosas while in our comfortable indoor areas. Marvel at unparalleled views of Chicago’s iconic landmarks, such as Willis Tower and Navy Pier from inside or enjoy fresh breezes on the open-air decks. This fun-filled brunch cruise experience for all ages is complete with lively DJ entertainment, dancing, games, and a fully stocked cash bar. Elevate your weekend plans with a one-of-a-kind brunch cruise on the water!

Free cancellation