Get ready, Chicago! Cruise season is upon us.
Take in the breathtaking city skyline, learn about the history of The Windy City’s architectural past or get soaked on a thrilling speedboat. With countless ways to experience Chicago, here are our top recommendations for catching it from the water.
Architecture Tours
Named one of the Top 10 Tours in the U.S. by TripAdvisor, Chicago's First Lady Cruises partners with Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF) to provide a one-of-a-kind experience.
Relax with a 90-minute Chicago river tour featuring indoor and outdoor seating and a full service bar. Listen to CAF-certified volunteers speak to the history of more than 50 buildings along the cruise route. And don’t forget your camera! This tour along the Chicago River offers unmatched photo opportunities.
Be sure to consider Chicago's First Lady for your private events as well!
112 E. Wacker Drive (SE Corner Michigan Avenue Bridge)
(847) 358-1330
Seadog Chicago
One of the most popular attractions at Navy Pier in Chicago, Seadog thrills guests with views of Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Museum Campus and more.
Lakefront Tours
A 30-Minute Lakefront Speedboat Tour combines an exciting speedboat ride along the city shoreline with informative descriptions of the famous city skyline.
Architectural Tours
Seadog's River and Lake Architectural Tour takes guests from the lakefront through the locks and along the Chicago River, all the way to the famous Willis Tower. Get up-close views of Chicago’s unique architecture and famous landmarks on this 75-minute narrated cruise.
Thrill Rides
With exhilarating high speeds and full 360° spins, this jet-propelled ride blasts off to start and splashes down to stop. Experience full throttle slalom runs, sharp twists and turns, all paired with fun narration about Chicago.
Odyssey Cruises on Lake Michigan
Escape on the lake aboard Odyssey. Enjoy upscale dining and entertainment, and sit back and relax as Chicago's famous skyline drifts past your window. An Odyssey dining cruise is the perfect setting for celebrating a special occasion with friends, connecting with colleagues, or an evening out with the one you love.
Spirit Cruises from Navy Pier
Join in at Lake Michigan for a few hours of food, music and incredible skyline views. Whether you’re a native Chicagoan, newcomer, or just visiting, Spirit of Chicago is the perfect venue for a special occasion, group event or romantic evening on the water. Great for parties of all sizes, a Spirit cruise gives you the chance to dine, dance and see the Chicago skyline like never before.
Mystic Blue Cruises
Come aboard and watch the sun set against the Chicago skyline while you enjoy panoramic views of the city aboard. Cruise in a casual atmosphere with dining, dancing and unbeatable views. There’s something pretty cool about Mystic Blue.
600 E. Grand Avenue
(800) 700-0735
Chicago Architecture Tours
Shoreline Sightseeing’s expert guides will share an insider’s glimpse into the buildings, architecture, and engineering that made Chicago famous as the birthplace of the skyscraper and home of modern American architecture. Nothing is more impressive than this world-renowned architecture as seen from the Chicago River on a 75-minute architecture tour!
Classic Tours on Lake Michigan
Whether you’re local or visiting the city for the first time, taking in the striking views of Chicago's skyline from the lake makes for a perfect day with a classic boat tour. With departures daily from Navy Pier, spring through autumn, Shoreline is ready to help you explore your Chicago.
As the season continues, be sure to check out Shoreline Sightseeing’s Fireworks Tours and special events such as Brew Cruises and Wine Tasting Cruises!
Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Avenue
(312) 222-9328
Wendella's Signature Lake & River Tour
This is the tour that started it all. Hear the story of more than 200 years of Chicago history and explore more than a century of groundbreaking architecture aboard Wendella Sightseeing. The journey begins with an up-close perspective of internationally-known architecture along Chicago River before venturing through the Chicago Lock on to the waters of Lake Michigan. Take the selfie of a lifetime on this inspirational experience!
Chicago's Original Architecture Tour
Be inspired by the visual art that is Chicago’s legendary architecture and the architects who created this ever-changing, legacy for all to enjoy. The all-encompassing cruise lead by professionally-trained architectural guides navigates guests through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River.
As the season continues, be sure to check out Wendella's Sunset Cruise, Fireworks Cruise, Water Taxi and more!
400 N. Michigan Avenue
(312) 337-1446
