Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch Lunch Or Dinner Boat Tours In Chicago
The 2-hour Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise is another of the best Lake Michigan cruises in Chicago that feature a meal.
Hop aboard the Spirit of Chicago and enjoy a buffet-style meal with a view of the city. The food for this lunch cruise in Chicago is freshly prepared and tasty.
There are three decks with climate-controlled rooms and outdoor observation decks.
When you are done eating, there are games to play! Try your hand at giant Jenga and shuffleboard.
You can also dance to the music put on by a live DJ! This is one of the most entertaining Chicago boat rides!
Best Architectural River Cruise Chicago
- https://www.cruisechicago.com/tours/architecture
- Explore Chicagoâs iconic architecture aboard TripAdvisorâs #1 rated boat tour of the city. The only Chicago River cruise partnered with the Chicago Architecture Center , Chicagoâs First Lady Cruises offers visitors the cityâs most engaging architectural tour experience.Phone: 358-1330
Best Night Tour: Chicago Fireworks Architecture Cruise
During the summer months on Wednesday and Saturday nights, The Navy Pier puts on an impressive display of fireworks that illuminate the city skyline. Take in the show while learning about the architecture on the Architecture Fireworks Cruise, a 90-minute narrated boat ride on the Chicago River. During the tour, guides will explain the importance of the balloon-frame construction that changed how homes were built, and how the Great Fire shaped history. The boat passes by 40 iconic buildings, such as the Aon Center, the John Hancock Center, the Willis Tower , the Wrigley Building and the IBM Building.
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Chicago River Architecture Cruise: Skip
A forest of skyscrapers looms high overhead as you hop on a modern cruiser and take the waters of the Chicago River. As you gaze skywards, youll be able to make out some of the most iconic landmarks of the Windy City.
Theres the soaring clock tower of the Wrigley Building, oozing elegant Colonial Revival styles. Theres the gleaming glass outline of the Trump International Hotel. And theres the striking duo that makes up Marina City.
Your jaunt is rendered extra relaxing on account of a barcoded ticket. Thats delivered online and lets you skip the box office queues.
Youll Hear Lots Of Names Of Famous People And Businesses
Donald Trump, Groupon, Apple, William Wrigley Jr., Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Oprah Winfrey, IBM, and Betrand Goldberg are just a few of the recognizable names youll hear during the tour.
For more ideas on things to do in downtown Chicago, check out my SheBuysTravel stories on whats new at Navy Pier, and my favorite kid-friendly restaurants.
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The Best 5 Chicago Architecture Boat Tours
From the Two-Flats and Graystones of the suburbs to the skyscrapers and sacred buildings of The Loop, Chicagos hotch-potch of architectural styles can be enjoyed on a number of city boat tours.
The vast organism of rivers and canals that run through Chicago serve as a striking vantage point from which to marvel at the citys land-based attractions. By joining a themed boat tour, visitors have the chance to learn all about the citys rich architectural history as you cruise past some of its most notable buildings and structures. Here are 5 of the best Chicago architecture boat tours currently available.
1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Cruise
Navigate all three branches of the Chicago River on this engaging tour through the heart of the city. During the trip, youll have the choice of sitting on the outside deck-top or indoors as your expert guide regales you with stories and information about Chicagos long architectural heritage and how it has evolved down the years. Among the prestigious buildings youll pass will be the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, the art deco Merchandise Mart, and mid-century skyscrapers like the Mies Van der Rohe AMA Building. Pick up refreshments and snacks on-board at the full-service cash bar. From $40 per person.
2-Hour Premier Chicago River Architectural Lunch Cruise
45-Minute Family-Friendly Architecture Cruise
Chicago Sunset Cruise
75-Minute Architecture Cruise by Speedboat
Chicago Urban Adventure River And Lake Cruise
A scenic 90-minute cruise along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan shoreline with views of Chicago landmarks like the Marina City, the Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower and Navy Pier.
Prices start at $42 for adults, $18 for children aged 5 to 15, and free for children under 5.
For more information click here.
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Chicago Architecture Boat Tour
A 90-minute history tour on the Chicago River from the comfort of an open-deck boat with views of the Civic Opera House, Wrigley Building, Willis Tower and more.
Adult tickets start at $49. Tickets for students under 18, Seniors, Military, Veterans, COVID-19 Healthcare Workers, and First Responders are $25.
For more information click here.
Chicago Trolley & Upper Decker Company Tour
Much like the Big Bus Tour, this company also focuses its efforts primarily on providing a hop-on-hop-off service.
They dont have any tours specifically devoted to architecture, but youll have an opportunity to jump off at several different landmarks and explore the windy city for yourself.
Enjoy stops at Skydeck Chicago, The John Hancock Center, Millennium Park, The Magnificent Mile, and Michigan Avenue Bridge. Learn the history from hands-on experience at each specific location on this bus tour.
During the summer, they also have a tour package which will take you to Wrigley Field, Skydeck Chicago, The Chicago History Museum and the Lincoln Park Zoo.
Availability: Much like the other hop-on-hop-off bus tours, Chicago Trolley & Upper Deck Company provides services on almost every day of the year.
Click here to learn more about their tours and prices.
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Chicago Urban Adventure River And Lake Boat Tour
Youll see both of the very different aquatic sides of the Windy City in a single day when riding this Urban Adventure cruise.
First up: The Chicago River. That weaves through a pack of cloud-splintering skyscrapers. One moment the Willis Tower looms above you.
The next, its the bustling Chicago French Market. All the while, you get to enjoy commentary filled with factoids about the history of construction in the USA.
For the grand finale, you burst out onto the waters of Lake Michigan. Looking westwards from there, its possible to see the whole metropolis, sometimes even silhouetted in the water like a mirage.
River & Lake Architectural Cruise
Put yourself in the hands of a bona fide Chicagoan who knows the ins and outs of this awesome metropolis, all by opting for a whirlwind tour of Windy City construction.
There is oodles to get through in just 75 minutes. Tales of post-war building booms, Art Deco influences, the erstwhile military locks, and the iconic metalwork of the DuSable Bridge from 1920 all begin to flow.
Meanwhile, camera lenses will point to the skies, as symbolic structures like the Willis Tower drift on by.
Theres also instant ticket delivery, and you can show your admission on a smartphone.
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Tall Ship Windy Architecture & Skyline Sailing Chicago Boat Tour
If you want to enjoy one of the most unique boat tours in Chicago, Illinois, then the Tall Ship Windy Architecture & Skyline Sailing Tour is the one you should book!
You will feel like a pirate when you board the iconic tall ship called Windy for this 75-minute cruise!
This is a great family activity in Chicago! Young and old alike will love watching the sails work in the wind atop this 148-foot traditional schooner.
There are sunset and architecture tour options. Each gives you panoramic views of the Chicago skyline from Lake Michigan.
Listen to the informative narration and sip a drink from the onboard bar.
Chicago Line Cruises River Architecture Tour
With Starbucks coffee and a bar on board, Chicago Line Cruises is all about a laid-back approach to sight-seeing on the water. Chicago Line Cruises can also customize a private architecture boat tour for your party of 20 or more passengers, if you are seeking a more personalized tour on the Chicago River. Chicago Line Cruises certified docents weave in the history of Chi-town as they provide context around some of the most important examples of Chicago architecture. In addition to architecture cruises, Chicago Line offers dog cruises , nighttime cruises, and firework cruises. Their classic Chicago River architecture tour is 90 minutes.
To book: $45, chicagoline.com
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Best Short Tour: Lake Michigan Sightseeing Cruise
If youre strapped on time and want a quick taste of some of Chicagos attractions, as well as an overview of the architecture, the Lake Michigan Sightseeing Cruise is an excellent, budget-friendly option. The 40-minute cruise gives you some fantastic photo opportunities of the city skyline as you listen to commentary about the history of Chicago and major skyscrapers such as the John Hancock Center and Willis Tower. A bar is available on board for adult beverages, but it is suggested to bring your own lunch. The cruise leaves every hour from the Navy Pier’s Dock Street but does not operate in the winter. Viator members felt that although a short cruise, it was a good value overall.
Chicago River Boat Tour
Whisking you from the DuSable Bridge to the Willis Tower, under the gaze of the Wrigley Building and out beneath the 100-storey John Hancock Center, this short, sweet, but informative Chicago River Boat Tour usually ticks all the boxes.
The on-board narration will tell tales of how this city led the way in the construction of huge skyscrapers. And youll learn intriguing titbits about the towns industrial growth and waterways.
In all, it lasts around 75 minutes, with a central meeting point on Michigan Avenue.
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Chicago 3d Fireworks Cruise On Lake Michigan
Crash, bang, wallop! Whats that sound? Its only the weekly fireworks show erupting over the Navy Pier.
Yep, giving Disney World a run for their money, this ones all about catching The Loop in full light, as pyrotechnic bursts and magenta blooms light up the skyline of this iconic American metropolis.
Youll be able to view the lot from the comfort of a modern cruiser out on the waters of Lake Michigan. Whats more, youll get complimentary 3D glasses to add to the drama of it all. Talk about something fun for the whole family to enjoy!
Speed Across Lake Michigan On Seadog Boat Tours
Are you up for a thrill? Race across Lake Michigan on SeaDog Cruises, featuring 30 minutes of high speeds and exhilarating twists and turns. Come prepared to get splashed.
SeaDog also offers lakefront speedboat tours and a river/lake architecture tour, featuring views of Chicagos iconic Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Museum Campus, and more.
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Discover The Windy City From The Water
Set Sail on a Premier Charter Cruise
Architecture boat tours are one of the best ways to delve into Chicagos history. Youll see the different art styles on the buildings that line the Chicago Rivers shores while expert guides explain how the city was rebuilt after the 1871 Great Chicago Fire. We offer that cover all three branches of the Chicago River, or you can book a for your event that covers Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Check out our cruises below to learn more.
Chicagos Best 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour
Family Fun Urban Adventure River And Lake Cruise
Chicagos history is brought to life with fun narration on the 1.5-hour Family Fun Urban Adventure River and Lake Cruise.
You will start the cruise near the historic DuSable Bridge before moving down the river between looming skyscrapers.
Then you will pass through the Chicago Lock and onto Lake Michigan.
From the lake, you will glimpse the Navy Pier, the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, and the Museum Campus.
Beverages such as soda, wine, and beer are sold onboard.
This boat cruise is one of the best tours in Chicago to check out on your trip.
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Frequently Asked Questions And Answers
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“Amazing experience! Book this tour for an outstanding look at the beautiful buildings in Chicago. Our tour guide was so interesting and gave so much information. I would recommend this cruise to anyone visiting Chicago! Even had complimentary Starbucks coffee onboard so it was an added treat. I couldn’t stop taking pictures and then telling everyone about the boat trip when I got home. Made me fall in love with Chicago even more!”
Lake Michigan Speedboat Ride
Going high speed means youll waltz around the banks of Lake Michigan as the winds of the Windy City zoom on by.
Yessir, theres hardly a wasted moment to be found on this sped-up tour of the Downtown and its various little corners.
Your jaunt begins on Navy Pier, with a modern speedboat that leaves its wake in the water. A montage of Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, and the beaches of the Near North Side all unfolds over the next 30 minutes or so.
And in the meantime? You just sit back, relax, and enjoy the adrenaline rush!
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Chicago Architecture Walking Tours
Whether you want to save some money or youd prefer to get some exercise on your trip, you might want to consider a walking tour of Chicagos architecture.
Stroll by some of the most notable buildings in the city and learn all about the history of their construction.
There are both free and paid walking tours in Chi-town, and most of them are very highly rated.
Chicago Architectural Boat Tour
- https://www.chicagoline.com/chicago-boat-cruises/architectural-boat-tours/
- Think of the Venetian canals, a Shinto temple, the medieval Cathedral at Chartres, or the unmistakable skyline of Chicago. Each year thousands of architecture lovers travel to the City of Chicago, the birthplace of the skyscraper⦠and thousands book passage aboard our enthralling river tour, widely considered the best 90-minutes spent in Chicago.
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Architectural Boat Tours Chicago Il
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Don’t wanna do the crowded mainstream boattour in Chicago. Look for this intimate boattour
Its Fun To Ride A Boat Through Downtown Chicago
The architecture tour is done on a slow-moving boat on smooth water . The river cruise cuts right through the heart of downtown, so there are skyscrapers on either side of you the entire ride.
Even if you tune out the speaker , its a lovely ride. It goes all the way from the edge of Lake Michigan, near Navy Pier, to the near west side of the city.
SheBuysTravel Tip: The temperature can be significantly colder when you get near the lake. Bring a jacket, even if its a warm weather day. This is the Windy City, after all.
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Admire Architecture With Chicagos First Lady
Around the world, Chicago is known for its outstanding architecture, and its easiest to admire the citys legacy from the water. By partnering with the Chicago Architecture Center, Chicagos First Lady offers the most comprehensive tour of the skyline docents must train 100 hours before they can lead tours.
Live It Up On An Island Party Boat
Looking for a party? These tiki-themed boats are always a good time, offering drink packages, stellar views, and fun vibes. You can hop on an Island Party Boat at Monroe Harbor or the Chicago Riverwalk, which is also where youll find their beach-inspired bar Island Party Hut. Choose from a river cruise, lake cruise, tacky tour guide cruise, or even a dueling pianos cruise.
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Best Land And Water: Chicago City Tour With Optional River Cruise
If you prefer a smaller group size, the Chicago City Tour combines sightseeing in an air-conditioned bus that holds 12 people or less with a peaceful boat ride . The tour begins with a narrated, two-hour ride around the city with a chance to get out and explore a few stops, including the 1888 skyscraper called The Rookery, which is known for its Frank Lloyd Wright-designed lobby. Next up is a 75-minute cruise on an open-top boat to delve even deeper into the citys famous architecture and to learn about the role the river has played in the citys development. Transportation from most area hotels is provided but is not round-trip.