Helena Frye
Chicago is home to two stunning waterfronts: the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Both offer a plethora of cruise options, from architecture tours to dinner cruises. With so many choices, it can be hard to pick the best boat tour. Here's a list of some of the top-rated boat tours in Chicago to help you decide.
Architecture tours
Chicago Architecture River Cruise
This 60-minute tour offers panoramic views of more than 40 iconic landmarks, including the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City. The tour departs from Navy Pier or Michigan Avenue Bridge, and you can enjoy locally sourced food and drinks from the boat bar. It is recommended by 97% of travellers.
Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour
Explore all three branches of the Chicago River and discover the city's remarkable architecture. This excursion takes you through the heart of Chicago, providing insider information from an expert guide. You can cancel your reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the tour is recommended by 92% of travellers.
Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile
If you're short on time, this 45-minute architecture tour is a great option. You'll learn about Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who shaped the city's skyline. The tour departs from the Magnificent Mile, and you have the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. 90% of reviewers recommend this tour.
Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady
This tour is led by expert docents from the Chicago Architecture Center, providing in-depth insights into the city's architectural landmarks. You'll see dozens of iconic buildings along the Chicago River, and 98% of travellers recommend this experience.
Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
For a comprehensive view of Chicago's architecture, this tour takes you on both the river and Lake Michigan. You'll get to admire the famous skyline and learn about the city's rich history. The tour is highly recommended, with 91% of reviewers giving it a rating of 4 or higher.
These architecture tours offer a unique perspective on Chicago's rich history and renowned landmarks. Whether you prefer a relaxing cruise or a thrilling speedboat ride, there's an option to suit your interests and time constraints.
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Sunset cruises
Wendella Boats
The Wendella Dock, located at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, offers a 90-minute cruise along Lake Michigan, with breathtaking views of the sunset and the city's skyscrapers. You can enjoy wine, local beer, and handcrafted cocktails while taking in the sights.
Tall Ship Windy
For a more informative sailing trip, the Tall Ship Windy offers a 75-minute cruise along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Onboard, you'll find snacks and drinks for sale, and the crew can provide insights into the history of Chicago's renowned waterfront and skyline. This tour is also a great option for families, with a special pirate-themed cruise for kids.
Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise
For a shorter option, the Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise by Wendella Boats is a 30-minute tour that departs near the DuSable (Michigan Avenue) Bridge. This world-class tour offers a unique perspective on the city's skyline and a chance to relax and enjoy the sunset.
Chicago Private Sunset Sail
If you're looking for a more intimate experience, the Chicago Private Sunset Sail is a two-hour sailing trip for up to six people along Chicago's lakefront. You can kick back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views with your friends or family.
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Kayak tours
If you're looking for a kayak tour in Chicago, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best ones:
Wateriders Kayak Tours
Wateriders have been offering kayak tours since 1997 and are based in downtown Chicago. They offer a range of tours, including an architecture tour, a moonlight paddle, and a ghosts and gangsters tour. They provide a kayaking lesson on land and additional training on the water if needed, all at no extra cost. Prices start at around $40.
Kayak Chicago
Kayak Chicago offers kayak tours and rentals on the Chicago River and at North Ave Beach. They sanitise all equipment and enforce strict social distancing guidelines. Prices start at $30 per hour, and you can get 10% off with the code Openair20.
Chicago River Canoe & Kayak
This option is a bit of a drive, but it offers a unique nature-lover's experience. You can paddle along the soothing shorelines of Busse Reservoir or take on the calming waters of Lake Tampier. The Busse Reservoir location is open on Saturdays and Tuesdays, and the Lake Tampier site is open on Sundays and Wednesdays. Kayak rentals start at $20 per hour.
Chicago's Lake Michigan Kayak Tour
This tour is perfect for those who want to couple their sightseeing with a workout. You can rent a single or tandem kayak and paddle out onto Lake Michigan from Ohio Street Beach. Life jackets are provided, and you can also rent stand-up paddleboards.
Urban Kayaks
Urban Kayaks offers kayak rentals and guided tours on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. You'll go through a brief training session before hitting the water, and then you're free to paddle at your own pace. Guided tours are also available for those who want to catch the sunset, fireworks, or historic highlights. Rentals are available at the Chicago Riverwalk or Monroe Harbor.
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Speedboat tours
If you're looking for a thrill, a speedboat tour of Chicago is an excellent option. Below are some of the top-rated speedboat tours in Chicago.
Seadog Speedboat Tour
This whistle-stop boat ride is perfect if you don't want to spend all day on a boat. The 30-minute tour covers all the main sights, with a running commentary from the captain. The bright yellow Seadog boats are an iconic sight in Chicago, and the speedboat tour also includes a whizz across Lake Michigan. The tour departs from Navy Pier and is highly rated by reviewers, who rave about the views and the thrill of the speedboat.
Lake Michigan and Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Speedboat
This speedboat tour is another highly-rated option, with 92% of reviewers giving it a bubble rating of 4 or higher on Tripadvisor. The tour takes in internationally-renowned architecture, with an expert guide providing commentary. One reviewer described the tour as "amazing" and "a fantastic trip".
City Experiences – Chicago Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour
This is the top-rated speedboat tour according to U.S. News, which cites its combination of entertaining commentary and photo-worthy views. The tour lasts 30 minutes and departs from Navy Pier, taking in the shores of Lake Michigan and the city's iconic skyline.
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Dinner cruises
There are many dinner cruise options in Chicago, with most cruises departing from Navy Pier. Here are some of the best options:
Lake Michigan Gourmet Dinner Cruise
This cruise offers a three-course gourmet dinner aboard the Odyssey Chicago, with breathtaking views of the skyline. The cruise includes a cash bar and unlimited tea and coffee. Enjoy a live DJ set as you sail for 2.5 to 3 hours around Lake Michigan.
Chicago Buffet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
This dinner cruise includes an all-you-can-eat buffet with sights of Chicago and entertainment.
Chicago Fireworks Dinner Cruise with Buffet
This is the ultimate way to kick off summer, with a signature dinner and fireworks display.
Chicago Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
Enjoy a premier dinner cruise and spend your evening dining and taking in picturesque views of Lake Michigan. The cruise includes a cash bar.
Chicago Premier Lake Michigan Brunch Cruise
This premier brunch cruise offers dining and bottomless drinks aboard a luxury cruise ship.
Chicago New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
Celebrate New Year's Eve with a signature dinner and fireworks display.
Chicago Mother's Day Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
Create lasting memories with an amazing Mother's Day signature dinner cruise on Lake Michigan.
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Frequently asked questions
The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise, also known as Chicago's First Lady, is consistently ranked as one of the best boat tours in Chicago. The tour offers an in-depth look at more than 50 buildings along the riverfront and beyond, providing a fascinating history of the city and its architecture.
Wendella Boats offers a classic Chicago River Architecture Tour that is perfect for families. The tour is available in both 90-minute and 45-minute options, making it a great choice for those travelling with kids. It covers all three branches of the Chicago River and provides informative commentary on the city's landmarks.
For couples seeking a romantic cruise, the 1.5-hour Sunset Cruise by Wendella is a great option. This 90-minute cruise offers breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline as the sun sets, creating a perfect atmosphere for a memorable evening.
The Seadog Speedboat Tour is an exhilarating 30-minute ride that takes you on a fast-paced tour of Lake Michigan. The speedboat can feel like a floating rollercoaster, providing an exciting and unique perspective of the city's landmarks.
