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 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
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
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
Reviews
523 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
View Chicago from River and lake.
Trenton M,
Sep 24, 2025
- Viator
5.00Scenic views of Chicago from lake and river. Guide pointed out some notable locations. Great for a beautiful weather day.
Must Do!!
Jennifer R,
Sep 24, 2025
- Viator
5.00MUST DO!!! I've been on several of the Architecture cruises and this is the best one because it goes all the way out to Lake Michigan and you get and incredible view! Our guide was Olivia and she was fantastic. We learned so much AND had fun!
Thank you Libia
AMELIA S,
Sep 23, 2025
- Viator
5.00After living in chicago for 32 years I have taken many tours. (Every time a relative comes to visit) this was by far the best. Libia was knowledgeable but in a light and funny way, incredibly witty and made the experience for the first time in many years, truly enjoyable. Thank you Libia!
Great chance to see Chicago from the lake
Lauraine R,
Sep 23, 2025
- Viator
5.00We’re Chicago residents and brought family who were visiting. We enjoyed the tour just as much as they did. In this boat ride you see Chicago from the lake and so a very different perspective … and you get to travel from the river to the lake through the lock which is so cool. The guide was informative, pleasant and fun. I’d recommend this.
Evening tour
Bobby S,
Sep 22, 2025
- Viator
4.00We did the tour at 6:30 at night and I’m so glad we did. When you get out further on the water and you’re coming back, the sun‘s going down and the skyline looks amazing. All the buildings are lit up at night and everything looks so beautiful. One suggestion, I would highly recommend taking a sweatshirt or a jacket if you do the evening tour because it gets cold on the water.
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