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
Priority Boarding
Please arrive 30 minutes early: Priority Boarding Tickets include an exclusive early boarding period and the skip-the-queue during general boarding.
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
590 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
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!
Architecture Tour
Ericia C,Jun 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The architecture tour was exceptional, featuring a guide who demonstrated extensive knowledge, imparting valuable insights into building designs, architects, and design rationales. The tour's value was evident, and I highly recommend it to individuals of all ages. The experience was superb, and I would enthusiastically participate again.
Sunny Day on the Lake!
Karla B,Jun 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Stunning view of the city from the lake with historical facts mixed in with comedic banter! Great for family and friends alike to enjoy!
We had a great experience...
Paula S,Jun 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a great experience overall, very beautiful boat ride with the best view of Chicago. The staff was also very pleasant and friendly.
Tour guide and staff were...
CHARLES G,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Tour guide and staff were great. The bartender gladly took a family pic for us on the bow. Highly recommend.
See Chicago in a way you otherwise wouldn’t get to see
Henriette W,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Such a great way to experience Chicago and its beautiful buildings. I love getting out on the Lake to see Chicago’s skyline, hence why we opted to have both the architecture and lake tour. They also have a nice selection of drinks and snacks at the bar - perfect for 90 minutes boat tour. And n addition to all of that, they have really nice restrooms!
First Lady Scenic Tour
Patricia R,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Mostly on Lake Michigan. Less time on Chicago River. If you want more of River choose another one of their options.
Excellent trip. Andy...
Diane F,Jun 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent trip. Andy was a great guide. Learned a lot of the history and about the architecture. Highly recommend the river and lake trip.
Chicago Architectural Cruise
ritadawnm,Jun 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was an amazing experience and the guide was so great, funny and knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend this to anyone visiting Chicago!
Beautiful day on the water
Jennifer R,Jun 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Andy was very knowledgeable and did a great job. It was great day to see the sites on the river, learn about the lock system, and cruise on the lake.
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