Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Our popular 90-minute daytime river and lake tour, the Urban Adventure Cruise, delights family members of all ages with incredible views of Chicago's world-renowned architecture 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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Live commentary on board
Gratuities
Food and drinks
What To Expect
Lake Michigan
Travel along Lake Michigan to view the Chicago Skyline!
Chicago River
The tour cruises through the main branch of the river. You will hear information about Chicago's famous architecture.
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.
Reviews
464 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Awesome sightseeing experience
Catherine H,
Aug 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00The boat ride was great! Loved all of the information and history. Excellent pictures and met some nice people while out on the water. We were out for two hours instead of 90 minutes, which was an added bonus! The guy that did all of the talking made it fun and took a little time to chat with everyone about where we were from. Will definitely recommend this to everyone and look forward to doing it again next time we visit Chicago.
River & Lake Tour
Bruce B,
Aug 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00Incredible tour with a very well run company. All staff were friendly and welcoming. The shining star was Jacob our guide. The city of Chicago desperately needs this young man to lead their chamber of commerce and public relations. He talks nonstop about the virtues, beauty and history of the city and does it in the most enthusiastically passionate, humorous and entertaining way. The tour lasted only an hour and half, but we could have easily spent another four hours listening to him educate us on the Chicago experience. We especially liked the lake portion as you travel through the lock, view Navy pier from the water, and the fantastic views of the city skyline. Jaco even took pictures for everyone on the cruise with the beautiful Chicago skyline backdrop. Do Not miss this tour and make sure that you request Jacob as your guide.
Great
AnneSteven W,
Aug 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00All was great (refund, rescheduling, telephone interaction, messaging). No bad surprises, very easy to check in
The weather Gods were with us!
MichaelFrancis M,
Aug 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00Be sure to arrive early, as they leave the dock exactly on time. This is a very well-run tour, and one of the best we have ever taken. The crew were very friendly and professional, and did their best to make us welcome and comfortable after a heavy rain. The narration for the trip was extremely well done — interesting, informative, well presented, but not too technical. We can’t recommend this tour enough.
Enjoyable boat cruise and escape from the heat and hustle and bustle of the city.
Nicolette S,
Aug 12, 2025
- Viator
5.00It's informative and a nice respite from a day of sightseeing and long lines in stores and food stops.
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