Help

Experience the best Shoreline Cruises in 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.
Loved by over 57 million guests worldwide
Slide 1 of 7, Tour boat on Chicago River with city skyline and bridge in background.
Tour boat on Chicago River with city skyline and bridge in background.
1 hr 15 mins
  • Set sail from Michigan Avenue or Navy Pier in the heart of Chicago for an insightful 75-minute architecture river cruise.

  • Board a vessel offering unparalleled views of over 40 landmarks, including the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower and the 398-foot Wrigley Building.

  • The cruise features live commentary from a knowledgeable guide, vividly depicting Chicago's architectural history and evolution.

  • Choose the preferred language for your tour with expert narration offered in both English and Spanish for tours departing from Michigan Avenue.

  • Did you know? The Tribune Tower has fragments of famous world structures like the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal embedded in its walls.

More details
  • Set sail from Michigan Avenue or Navy Pier in the heart of Chicago for an insightful 75-minute architecture river cruise.

  • Board a vessel offering unparalleled views of over 40 landmarks, including the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower and the 398-foot Wrigley Building.

  • The cruise features live commentary from a knowledgeable guide, vividly depicting Chicago's architectural history and evolution.

  • Choose the preferred language for your tour with expert narration offered in both English and Spanish for tours departing from Michigan Avenue.

  • Did you know? The Tribune Tower has fragments of famous world structures like the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal embedded in its walls.

from
$56
Slide 1 of 5, Cruise boat on Lake Michigan with Chicago skyline in the background.
Cruise boat on Lake Michigan with Chicago skyline in the background.
45 mins
1 more
from
$30
Slide 1 of 6, Moored tour boats on the Chicago River at sunrise with city skyline.
Moored tour boats on the Chicago River at sunrise with city skyline.
1 hr 15 mins
1 more
from
$56

Browse by themes

What our guests say

Michele S

United States
Couple
2 weeks ago
Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and entertaining. It was just the right amount of time. Everyone was helpful and friendly. Thank you!

75-Minute Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Shoreline

Sarah S

United States
Couple
3 weeks ago
We loved our cruise. Richard was our docent and was wonderful. He was funny and engaging and very knowledgeable. Highly recommend.

75-Minute Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Shoreline

Heather B

Group
2 weeks ago
Liam did an amazing job and truly did a great job of providing the details of the buildings and keeping us thoroughly entertained! Memories for a lifetime!

Chicago Architecture Evening Cruise by Shoreline

Pooja P

United States
Group
Aug 2026
Taking my mother from India on the Chicago Architecture Cruise was one of the sweetest memories we made during her visit. We booked the cruise through an amazing Headout offer, and we’re so grateful for the opportunity. A special thank you to Headout for making this experience so accessible and worthwhile, and to Shoreline Sightseeing for such a wonderful cruise. Our tour guide, Eric, was absolutely fantastic! He explained Chicago’s architecture and history with so much passion and made everyone feel comfortable, welcomed, and engaged. His storytelling made the buildings come alive, and seeing my mother amazed by the beautiful Chicago skyline made the experience even more emotional and special. This was more than just a tour—it became a beautiful memory I’ll always cherish with my mom. Thank you, Headout, Shoreline, and Eric!

Chicago Architecture Evening Cruise by Shoreline

Ruhi J

Canada
Couple
Aug 2026
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

Nearby cities to explore