Table Of Content

Wacker Drive into your GPS.Located at the northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, a black awning marks the boat dock entrance stairs that lead down to the river. If you have limited mobility, see these directions for an alternative way to reach the dock. If you’d like to take a lake tour, please check out our sister cruise line Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline. There is enough seating for all guests to sit on our open air upper decks safely and with proper distancing measures in place. While seat numbers are printed on the tickets, you can ignore these as they are not valid. Recalling the handsome elegance of 20th century luxury yachts, our vessels are sure to make an impression.
What is the cheapest architecture boat tour in Chicago?

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. 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. If you opt for an evening cruise with dinner you can expect to pay about $100. We’re proud to present you with an in-depth, expert architectural-based river boat tour that delves into one of the most remarkable American cities today.
Chicago River Architecture Tour (45 minutes)
6 Top Chicago Tours Boat Tours, Beer Tours and More - Time Out
6 Top Chicago Tours Boat Tours, Beer Tours and More.
Posted: Wed, 03 May 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
In just 90 minutes, you'll get the best overview of Chicago’s architecture and its history. We believe that tours should be entertaining, enlightening, informational, and perfectly organized, every single time. A tour shouldn’t feel laborious in any way; you should feel an effortless inclination to learn more about what we present at your fingertips. With our Chicago architectural tours, that’s exactly what we strive to provide, basing each tour from the perspective of an expert with the real-life example in the background. By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy a winter boat tour in Chicago comfortably. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length architecture tours.
Highlights of this 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. 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. For more than 25 years, the CAC's expertly trained docent volunteers have led the CAC River Cruise, sharing fascinating stories behind more than 50 buildings along the Chicago River. Hear how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world's largest cities in less than 100 years.
Upcoming Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady Tours
Tours are led by expert docents and include historic and sunset options. 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. American Cruise Line sails all the waterways mentioned above, while Viking offers itineraries solely on the Mississippi. Additionally, Lindblad Expeditions has introduced a food-and-wine-centric river cruise on the Columbia and Snake rivers. The Chicago Riverwalk offers amazing views of the surrounding buildings, and as every single one has such history behind the unique styles, it’s that much more interesting.
Or join in a guided tour to catch the sunset, fireworks, or historic highlights. 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.

Tall Ship Windy Architecture & Skyline Sailing Tour
Known for unique, daring, and historical architectural pursuits, it’s hard to cover all of the design and building treasures that make up the Windy City today. 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. If you've never visited New Orleans, or it's been a while, take a Mississippi River cruise that sails round-trip from the Big Easy. They offer time before or after the cruise to enjoy the city's food, music and iconic architecture — plus the ease of a round-trip flight booking. Viking's seven-night New Orleans & Southern Charms itinerary focuses solely on ports in Louisiana and Mississippi, with an emphasis on historic architecture, Cajun culture and Civil War landmarks.
Chicago River cruises depart from two docks, offering tourists and locals alike a convenient and scenic way to explore the citys architectural wonders. The first dock is located at Michigan Avenue, a bustling hub of activity with it’s proximity to popular attractions and shopping destinations. From here, passengers can board the cruise and embark on a journey along the Chicago River, taking in panoramic views of the citys skyline and iconic landmarks. The Chicago Architecture Cruise offers a fascinating tour of the city’s notable architectural landmarks. On this cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to see and learn about some of the most famous and impressive structures in Chicago.
Learn About Credit Cards
The Chicago River is also home to a rich architectural heritage, boasting a diverse collection of buildings that span various styles and periods. From the iconic Wrigley Building to the modernist marvels of the Loop, each structure tells a story and contributes to the citys unique character. Experience our renowned daytime CAC River Cruise in the glow of the setting sun. Take in the city’s magnificent architecture bathed in golden light as it begins its transition from day to night. 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.
So bundle up, embrace the cold, and embark on a Chicago boat tour that will leave you with lasting memories. Our sister company, Mercury, offers the popular Canine Cruise on summer weekends. We are happy to offer free foreign language audio guides in Spanish, French, Japanese and Korean. Complete your architecture experience with a visit to the Chicago Architecture Center, just $5 with a General Boarding Ticket and valid for up to 7 days after your cruise. Launched in 2022, it's currently the largest river ship in the U.S. and features three restaurants and an aft infinity pool. You can cruise the entire length of this mighty river as you visit 14 cities in seven U.S. states on Viking's two-week sailing.
New Year's Eve 2024 in Chicago Find Ways to Celebrate - Choose Chicago
New Year's Eve 2024 in Chicago Find Ways to Celebrate.
Posted: Wed, 18 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
Sign up for our email to enjoy Chicago without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush). Mercury Cruises also offer Urban Adventure, Canine Cruises, and Chicago by Night tours. The spacious yachts comfortably fit up to 49 or 120 people, making them the perfect option for a large celebration or an intimate gathering. When you choose to apply (and are approved) for a new credit card through our site, we may receive compensation from our partners, and this may impact how or where these products appear. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information. They did have an open bar with alcoholic beverages available at an extra cost, but I found the cocktails to be high-quality and tasty.
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. Chicago is known around the world for its architectural feats, both inside and outside of the buildings. From the 100-year-old Art Deco, Neo-Classical, and Gothic Towers, to some of the tallest modern-day skyscrapers, Chicago is where old meets futuristic architectural endeavors. It has something for everyone in a way that no other city replicates today. It’s an ideal way to unwind, explore, and appreciate the wonders of the Hudson River and it’s surroundings. Regardless of whether youre a local or a visitor, this cruise promises an enchanting journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for this iconic waterway.