Chicago Boat Tours: Winter Operations And Availability

Chicago is known for its impressive architecture and skyline, and boat tours are a popular way to take in the sights. While some Chicago boat tours do operate in the winter, others do not, so it's important to check before planning a trip. One option that runs year-round is Chicago's Original Architecture Tour, led by Wendella Cruises, which offers 20 architecture tours daily, with more on weekends, and provides a detailed history of the city's iconic skyline. While the river may freeze over in winter, Wendella Cruises offers climate-controlled lounges to keep you warm. Shoreline Sightseeing also offers architecture river tours that depart from Michigan Avenue or Navy Pier and operate through early December, excluding Thanksgiving. However, some boat tours, such as the Chicago Architecture Center's River Cruise, typically wrap up for the year in November. So, if you're planning a winter visit to Chicago and want to take a boat tour, be sure to check the schedule and dress warmly!

Chicago's Original Architecture Tour runs all year

Chicago's Original Architecture Tour, led by Wendella Cruises, takes place all year round. The tour offers 20 daily tours, with more at the weekend, and is a great way to experience the city's legendary architecture from the river. The tour covers all three branches of the Chicago River, providing a detailed history of the city's iconic skyline.

While the tour is a great option for visitors to Chicago, it is important to note that winter weather conditions may impact the experience. Visitors will likely need to bundle up to stay warm, and there may be limited visibility from inside the boat. In addition, the river may be closed during periods of extreme cold or ice, which can impact the availability of the tour.

To ensure a comfortable experience, it is recommended to check the weather conditions and tour availability before booking. In addition, visitors should dress appropriately for the cold and be prepared for potential changes in weather.

Chicago's Original Architecture Tour is a great option for those seeking an informative and comprehensive tour of the city's architecture. By operating year-round, the tour provides visitors with the opportunity to experience Chicago's unique skyline and history, even during the winter months.

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise ends for the season on November 18

The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise is one of the most popular ways to take in the sights of the city and get a history lesson. The tour provides a detailed history of Chicago's iconic skyline, with guides detailing the 130-year-long history behind it. The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise is the official tour of the Chicago Architecture Foundation and has been named the Best Boat Tour in the U.S.

The cruise goes into detail about more than 50 buildings on the riverfront and beyond, giving a fascinating history of the city and its architects. The tour leaves from the Chicago First Lady Cruises dock and lasts around 90 minutes.

However, the cruise only operates during certain months of the year and will end for the season on November 18. While the exact dates vary from year to year, the cruise typically runs from spring through to autumn, with spots available until late October or early November.

If you're looking for a boat tour during the winter months, there are a few other options available. Chicago's Original Architecture Tour, led by Wendella Cruises, takes place year-round. This 90-minute tour navigates all three branches of the Chicago River and offers both live commentary and entertainment.

Additionally, Shoreline Sightseeing offers architecture river tours that depart from Michigan Avenue or Navy Pier. These tours operate daily through December 3, excluding Thanksgiving.

Shoreline Sightseeing's architecture river tours run until December 3

Shoreline Sightseeing's architecture river tours are a great way to take in Chicago's iconic skyline and learn about the history of the city. The tour highlights more than 40 landmarks, including the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City. The boats feature a full-service bar with wine, local beer, and craft cocktails, as well as an assortment of snacks for purchase.

The tour operates year-round and takes place daily through December 3, excluding Thanksgiving. While the river doesn't freeze over every year, it's likely that you'll need to bundle up if you take the tour in the winter months.

The tour departs from either Michigan Avenue or Navy Pier. Boarding begins 15-30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time, and all bags are subject to inspection. Prohibited items include outside alcohol, weapons, flammables, and explosives.

The cost of the tour is $20 for children aged 4-12, while children under 4 go free (ticket required). Tickets are non-refundable but are transferable.

So, if you're looking for a unique way to experience Chicago's architecture and history, Shoreline Sightseeing's architecture river tour is a great option—available until December 3—that offers stunning views, informative commentary, and a comfortable and entertaining experience.

Wendella Boat Tours only run on weekends in January

If you're planning a trip to Chicago in January and want to take a boat tour, you're in luck! Wendella Boat Tours, which offers Chicago's Original Architecture Tour®, runs throughout the year. However, there's a catch—in January, the tours only operate on weekends. So, if you're planning your visit to the Windy City during this month, you'll need to plan your boat tour for a Saturday or Sunday.

Wendella's architecture tour is a great way to experience the city and its legendary skyline. Their expert guides will detail the 130-year-long history behind the iconic buildings and innovative architecture that make up Chicago's cityscape. The tour lasts 90 minutes and navigates through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River.

While the tour operates year-round, it's important to note that the frequency of tours may vary depending on the season. In January, with the colder weather, the tours are reduced to weekends only. This means you'll have fewer opportunities to join a tour, so it's essential to plan ahead and book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.

When you arrive for your tour, keep in mind that boarding begins 15 to 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time. All bags are subject to inspection, and there are prohibited items such as outside alcohol, weapons, flammables, and explosives. The boats offer a full-service bar and snacks for purchase, so you can enjoy a drink and a bite while taking in the views.

So, if you're visiting Chicago in January and want to take a boat tour, be sure to plan for a weekend trip with Wendella Boat Tours. It's a great way to experience the city's architecture and history, but be sure to dress warmly!

Chicago Architecture Foundation offers walking and bus tours as alternatives to boat tours in winter

Chicago boat tours are a great way to experience the city's architecture and history. However, during the winter, these tours may not be as enjoyable due to the cold weather. Luckily, the Chicago Architecture Foundation offers a range of alternative walking and bus tours that can provide a similar experience without the chill.

The Chicago Architecture Foundation is a highly-rated tour provider that offers in-depth and informative tours of the city's architecture. Their walking tours are a great way to stay warm while still taking in the sights and learning about Chicago's architectural history. One popular option is the Must-See Chicago tour, which covers the main architectural highlights in the Loop, including famous downtown buildings and views from the El train. This tour is especially recommended for first-time visitors to Chicago.

In addition to walking tours, the Chicago Architecture Foundation also offers bus tours that are perfect for winter. These tours are a great option if you want to stay warm while still taking in the city's architecture. One popular bus tour is the Chicago Architecture: A Walk Through Time tour, which takes you through Chicago's architectural evolution, from the aftermath of the Great Fire to new supertall high-rises. The Art Deco Skyscrapers: The Loop and Art Deco Skyscrapers: The Riverfront tours are also great options, offering a glimpse into Chicago's Roaring '20s optimism and opulent Art Deco masterpieces.

The Chicago Architecture Foundation also offers a variety of other walking and bus tours that focus on different aspects of Chicago's architecture, such as historic houses of worship, the Chicago World's Fair, Gothic-style architecture, and more. These tours provide a deeper understanding of the city's architectural history and are a great way to stay warm during the winter.

So, if you're looking for an alternative to boat tours during the winter, the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking and bus tours are a great option. With a range of different tours to choose from, you can stay warm while still experiencing the best of Chicago's architecture and history.

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