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Cruises in Chicago

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Tour boat on the Chicago River with downtown Chicago skyscrapers in the background.

Wendella Cruises Chicago

Since 1935, family‑owned Wendella Cruises Chicago has been sharing the city’s story from the water. Depart downtown for an architecture tour along the Chicago River, a scenic Lake Michigan cruise, golden‑hour sunset sail, fireworks voyage or private charter; each boat features climate‑controlled salons, open‑air decks and expert local narration.
from $ 28

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Chicago Riverwalk with 'Chicago's First Lady' tour boat passing by Marina City.

First Lady Cruises Chicago

First Lady Cruises Chicago operates a fleet of elegant boats; each with open‑air upper decks, climate‑controlled lower salons, upscale marble restrooms and a full bar. As the only official cruise partner of the Chicago Architecture Center, they deliver expert‑led river and lake sightseeing, enchanting sunset and fireworks voyages, plus fully customizable private charters for groups large or small.
from $ 28

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Boats and kayaks on the Chicago River with city skyscrapers in the background.

Chicago River Architecture Cruise Tickets

The Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise follows the Chicago River through the Loop and along the lake, with licensed architect guides pointing out the city's landmark skyscrapers and design history. Find 90-minute standard cruise tickets, sunset session options, and evening cruise formats here.
from $ 34

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People on a boat deck viewing Chicago skyline at dusk with water and cloudy sky.

Shoreline Cruises Chicago

Shoreline Cruises Chicago operates the city’s largest fleet; 11 tour vessels and 7 water taxis-delivering architecture river cruises, skyline lake excursions, festive fireworks sails and custom private charters. Guests enjoy open‑air observation decks, fully climate‑controlled cabins and entertaining expert commentary on Chicago’s architectural heritage.
from $ 34

Top experiences in Chicago

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What our guests say

Evans O

United States
Family
3 weeks ago
On time! Learnt a lot on the architecture. Seen unexpected views and the one's I've always wanted to. Very informative lady tour guide. Recommending Wendella to friends back home already.

90-min Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Wendella

Gemma H

United States
Solo
3 weeks ago
I felt like I came to know more about the stunning city that I'd inhabited for the past weeks and visited numerous times. Through this experience, I felt more connected with my surroundings and the person I was lucky enough to embark with. Also, it was just plain gorgeous! Would recommend.

90-min Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Wendella

Stephanie V

United States
Couple
3 weeks ago

+7 more

We went on The Architecture Cruise around sunset and it was perfection. Your guide was entertaining and informative. She had great energy and kept the passengers engaged. I highly recommend this tour. It really highlights the beauty of Chicago and its history.

75-Minute Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Shoreline

Giorgi M

Couple
3 weeks ago
Fantastic way to experience Chicago’s architecture from a completely different perspective. Our guide was knowledgeable, engaging and entertaining, and the 90 minutes passed incredibly quickly. A must-do in Chicago, especially for anyone interested in architecture and the history of the city.

Official Chicago Architecture Cruise by First Lady

Avishai H

United States
Group
3 weeks ago
The guide from CAC was amazing! Great experience. The cruise was very smooth and effortless. Bar provided hit and cold drinks.

Official Chicago Architecture Cruise by First Lady

Ruhi J

Canada
Couple
3 weeks ago
The 45-minute Lake Michigan sunset cruise was amazing!! The views of the Chicago skyline at sunset were beautiful, and the whole cruise was very relaxing and enjoyable. Shoreline organized everything really well, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. Definitely a great way to experience Chicago from the water!

45-Min Lake Michigan Tour by Shoreline

Howard W

United States
Couple
3 weeks ago
I loved it. 10 out of 10! The staff very professional. The DJ was ok and the food was delicious. We had a window seat which made our experience incredible. The View was amazing. Highly recommend.

Odyssey Lake Michigan Dinner Cruise

Avishay G

United States
Group
3 weeks ago
The cruise was phenomenal. The sites themselves were well chosen for a shorter tour (I did one of the full length ones before) and the guide was knowledgeable, passionate and amusing. Not to mention that it was incredibly affordable. Even my skeptical friend who I dragged along for the experience had a blast. . I highly recommend this tour!

45-min Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Wendella