Chicago

15 Best Lake Michigan & River Cruises

This list covers both kinds of Chicago boat trip: skyline cruises out on Lake Michigan and slower runs along the river. Only from the lake do you see the whole skyline at once. Most boats leave from Navy Pier, and summer fireworks nights book out early.

2.Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise Aboard Chicagos First Lady

Captivating architecture enthusiasts with its unparalleled skyline and iconic landmarks, the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady is a must-experience tour.

★ 5.0

“So informative, comfortable, on time, and we had great weather - so, exceptional all-round! Highly recommended.”

Check Availability →Read my full review →

4.Chicago: 45-Minute Family-Friendly Architecture River Cruise

Wander through the architectural wonders of Chicago on a mesmerizing river cruise - where hidden gems and stunning skylines await.

★ 4.7

“Sarah was a great guide with a lot of interesting facts about the Chicago architecture. The 45 minute tour was just enough time to get a feel for the history of the city. The boat was comfortable and there were lots of seats for the…”

Check Availability →Read my full review →

5.Chicago: 1.5-Hour Lake and River Architecture Cruise

Prepare to be captivated by Chicago's architectural wonders on the 1.5-Hour Lake and River Architecture Cruise, where each building holds a story waiting to be discovered...

★ 4.7

“Elsie was absolutely fantastic. Lots of information with good humor mixed in. The ride was smooth and the view was incredible. Highly recommend.”

Check Availability →Read my full review →

6.Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

Mesmerizing the senses, the Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour unveils the city's iconic skyline, captivating visitors with its rich history and architectural marvels.

★ 5.0

“I scheduled a trip for Saturday Oct 18th, paid my fees, and less than 24 hours out the tour company canceled the trip and would not refund me. The listing said the tour was rain or shine, so I was prepared to go regardless. It…”

Check Availability →Read my full review →

8.Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour

Discover the stunning architecture of Chicago from a unique perspective. Join our river boat tour and immerse yourself in the city's iconic skyline.

★ 5.0

“The tour guide on the boat was AMAZING. It was super enjoyable! The boat was clean and the snacks and beverages were great!”

Check Availability →Read my full review →

11.Chicago Small-Group City Tour With Optional Architecture River Cruise

Discover the Windy City like never before with our small-group city tour. Don't miss the chance to add an optional architecture river cruise for an unforgettable experience.

★ 5.0

“I wasn’t quite sure what to expect as some of the large city tours that I have been on have been lackluster at best. However, I am pleased to say that our experience with both the mini bus tour and the boat tour was very…”

Check Availability →Read my full review →

14.Chicago: Fireworks Cruise With Lake or River Viewing Options

Hop aboard a magical journey of fireworks and city lights on the 'Chicago: Fireworks Cruise', where the night sky holds secrets waiting to be revealed.

★ 4.3

“Really we liked it all. It was informative. It wasn’t too long. We had a great view of the fireworks and the crowd was a fun crowd.”

Check Availability →Read my full review →

4.7Chicago: Architecture Center Cruise on Chicagos First Lady1.5 hours$57 4.0Chicago Buffet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan2 hours (approx.)$66.97 4.0Chicago Buffet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan$89 3.5Chicago Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan$49 4.030 Minute Lake Michigan Speedboat Ride30 minutes (approx.)$42.78 4.5Lake Michigan and Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Speedboat1 hour 15 minutes (approx.)$61.82 4.3Chicago: Lake Michigan Gourmet Brunch/Lunch/Dinner Cruise$67 4.6Chicago: 75-Minute Architecture Cruise by Speedboat$44 5.0Historical and Architectural Chicago Fireboat River/Lake Cruise2 hours (approx.)$47.00 4.5Chicago by Night: 90 Minute River and Lakefront Cruise$45.00 4.7Chicago: Family Fun Urban Adventure River and Lake Cruise$45 4.1Chicago: Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Cruise$130 4.8Chicago: City Minibus Tour With Optional Architecture Cruise2 - 4 hours$48 5.0Small-Group Sightseeing Boat Tour in Chicago1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)$89.00 4.7Chicago River: 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Riverboat Tour1.5 hours$57 4.0Chicago Lake Michigan Fireworks Cruise$50.00 4.6Chicago: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner River Cruise$116 4.5Chicago River Cocktail Cruise$49 4.0Chicago Fireworks Dinner Cruise With Buffet2 to 3 hours (approx.)$116.17 4.1Chicago: Summer Fireworks Cruise With 3D Glasses and Music$52 3.0Chicago Fireworks Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan2 to 3 hours (approx.)$142.14 4.5Chicago Premier Plus Brunch Cruise on the Chicago River2 hours (approx.)$84.74 3.8Chicago: Fireworks Buffet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan$135 5.0Guided Historic Small Boat River Architecture Tour in Chicago$49