Historical and Architectural Chicago Fireboat River & Lake Cruise
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Travel on a piece of history, learning Chicago fire history as well as Architecture! We travel on Lake Michigan and through the Chicago River seeing the sights. Perfect for Fire enthusiasts, families and everyone in between! Our flagship vessel is a retired Chicago fire boat, the Fred A Busse, Engine 41, which served Chicago from 1937 to 1981. Firefighter patches from around the world and memorabilia from Engine 41's time in service, adorn the walls inside the cabin.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important Note: We only serve alcoholic drinks for travelers 21 years old and above. Minor travelers below 21 years old will be served non-alcoholic drinks.
Harbor Parking at 111 N. Lakeshore Drive. Access to parking in same intersection as harbor.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Bathrooms available onboard
Cruise on a piece of Chicago history
Expert narration of Chicago's history & architecture
Light snacks available for purchase onboard
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase onboard
What To Expect
Chicago River
Learn about the Chicago river and the history surrounding it.
Options
Historical and Architectural Chicago Fireboat River & Lake Cruise
Reviews
236 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Enjoyed going out on both...
Matthew G,
Oct 18, 2025
- Viator
5.00Enjoyed going out on both the lake and the river! We were celebrating our sons 30th birthday and the weather was perfect. Really liked that we were able to move around on the boat and be able to see the city from different viewpoints.
Outstanding fire boat experience!
Patricia H,
Oct 18, 2025
- Viator
5.00Clean, comfortable, extremely informational. Incredible architecture, many onboard amenities, welcoming experience.
Very worthwhile
Lauren H,
Oct 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00Very worthwhile. This was unique way to experience the lake, river & city. Not only did the guides really know the history of the sites - boat itself has a story, See for yourself!!!
Great Tour!
Brooke S,
Oct 11, 2025
- Viator
5.00Great tour and guides. Highly recommend. Beautiful to see the city from the water and get to go on the lake and river.
Great boat tour
James F,
Oct 6, 2025
- Viator
5.00From booking the boat ride to the time we got off the dock the experience was a 10 out of 10. We enjoyed every minute of our ride. Staff were knowledgeable and courteous. Definitely exceeded our expectations.
Related Experiences
Operated by Chicago Fireboat Tours