Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
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!
Additional Info
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
What To Expect
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.
Options
General Boarding
Priority Boarding
Please arrive 30 minutes early: Priority Boarding Tickets include an exclusive early boarding period and the skip-the-queue during general boarding.
What‘s Included
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Live commentary on board
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
600 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
It was very interesting...
Jadwiga L,Jun 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was very interesting experience. My cousin and I enjoyed this excursion, and I would definitely recommend it.
Chicago River/Lake Michigan skyline tour
Larry E,Jun 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fantastic boat tour of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan! The views of the skyline were breathtaking, and the guide provided interesting history and architectural insights throughout the trip. Seeing Chicago from the water offered a unique perspective, especially when transitioning from the river to the lake. The boat was comfortable, the crew was friendly, and the experience was well worth it!
Lively and lovely!
Annie S,Jun 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Sebastian was lively and knew the material. I learned a lot about Chicago and its architecture. Joey the bartender remembered my cocktail and that was lovely! Plan to wear layers because you are out on the water and the temperature changes throughout the tour.
Was unforgettable. The...
Richie R,Jun 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Was unforgettable. The staff made sure everyone was safe and prepared to navigate the bustling river. My family had the best time. Mahalo!
Just enough info to keep...
Heather M,Jun 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Just enough info to keep things interesting/not boring. Boat was clean and comfortable, great guide. Staff at the dock friendly and helpful. BE WARNED: you have to go through a lock to get out to the lake. It can get backed up. We ran about 45 min late. Just keep in mind for dinner/show reservations.
Great tour
Holly J,Jun 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The tour guys was very well spoken and made the trip enjoyable! We enjoyed hearing the stories about Chicago.
Kudos to Doug our guide!
Douglas B,Jun 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our tour guide, Doug, was amazing! Seemed to enjoy his job and telling about Chicago! He knows his stuff and we learned some things we didn’t realize about the city! Very personable and made the very best of a very rainy and windy trip! Kudos to Doug for turning the nasty day into a positive!
Graduation Weekend Fun
Kimberley E,Jun 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This trip went out in Lake Michigan and river so had to wait on the locks to be opened twice to get through. It was a windy day and lake was a bit rough so we did get wet and they had to cut trip short. We did get longer time in river though and went to the Sears Tower area! We were running late for our first trip time and since our grandson had arrived and went to booth they were kind enough to move us to next trip. Very blessed and awesome trip and staff.
Do it.
Benson J,Jun 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Awesome boat ride, good history lesson and great views! 10 out of 10. Do it and enjoy the ride and have a good time.
Would do it again!
Carlos S,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Highly recommend the experience. However, if you don’t want to get wet, choose the seats in the back. We sat at the front and had a great time while we got drenched on the big lake. We had a lot of fun!
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