Top Chicago On the Water

Chicago's Lake Michigan Downtown Kayak Rental at Ohio Street Beach

1 to 2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(26)

from $40

Take in views of the Chicago skyline and its landmarks during this Lake Michigan sightseeing boat cruise. Enjoy a laidback ride, soaking up panoramic views from this unique perspective. Listen to audio commentary to give you fresh insight into the landmarks you see, like Navy Pier and the Willis Tower, and feel free to bring your own lunch or grab a drink at the onboard bar (own expense).

Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago

30 to 45 minutesFree Cancellation

4.4

(940)

from $34

Skyline Queen showcasing the Chicago Skyline!

See the Second City from the water with a sightseeing cruise along the Chicago River and the Lake Michigan shoreline, offering a unique perspective of towering skyscrapers and historic architecture. This tour offers stories about the city’s history and culture as you pass by Chicago's landmarks, museums, and buildings. Capture unforgettable images of the city skyline from Lake Michigan, ensuring a unique look at Chicago, perfect for all ages.

Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise

Discover the beauty of Chicago at night during a 1.5-hour cruise on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Watch the city sparkle as you pass landmarks such as Museum Campus, Willis Tower, Aon Center and the John Hancock Building, and the illuminated waters of Buckingham Fountain. You'll learn about the history of the city from live commentary by your knowledgeable guide as you glide along the waterfront of Chicago.

(675)

from $46

See Chicago's magnificent skyline at night!

Chicago By Night River and Lake Cruise

4.5

(404)

from $50

Discover the architectural gems of the Windy City from an ideal vantage point—and learn insider facts and stories about the city's top attractions—on this Chicago River cruise. Travel in comfort aboard a boat equipped with both indoor and outdoor seating areas. Covering more than 130 years of architectural history, this tour is the perfect opportunity to see a huge area of the city without the hassle of taxis and public transit.

Explore Chicago's legendary architecture and history.

Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour

Admire some of the Windy City's most iconic views—and enjoy a time-saving, relaxing way to sightsee—aboard this pet-friendly Chicago River architecture boat tour. With commentary from your onboard guide, watch the spectacular skyline glide by, including dozens of notable buildings, like the Wrigley Building and the John Hancock Building. In just one tour, you cover multiple branches of the Chicago River and learn insider facts and stories you'd otherwise miss.

(10,647)

from $45

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.8

(16,742)

from $39

See the towers, piers and iconic landmarks along the Chicago River on an architectural cruise through the heart of the city. Enjoy complimentary refreshments on deck as you cruise down the historic waterway, while listening to fun stories and facts throughout the tour. Spot gargoyles that keep watch high above the city, and buildings that range from Neoclassical to Art Deco. Take in over fifty sites from Lake Point Tower to the Navy Pier, and see the Second City from the water.

Chicago Architectural River Cruise

Chicago 3D Fireworks Cruise

(843)

from $50

Chicago River Floating Tiki Bar Cruise Friday & Saturday

4.2

(259)

from $52

1 hour 15 minutes

(7)

from $42

Get a front row perspective on the exquisite buildings that line the Chicago River during a 45-minute architecture cruise. Hear live commentary about the history and architectural heritage of Chicago on this family-friendly tour, which highlights landmarks such as the Chicago Riverwalk, Michigan Avenue Bridge, Wrigley Building, and Willis Tower. Sit on the open-air top deck or the sheltered bottom deck for the ultimate view of Chicago.

Join us in the daytime or evening for City lights and breathtaking views

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

45 minutesFree Cancellation

Get a chance to experience the Windy City from multiple vantage points during this two-hour, small-group boat tour in Chicago. Hop aboard a secure and reliable US Navy-built Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) for a unique sightseeing experience. Pass by iconic sights such as Navy Pier, Soldier Field, Fort Dearborn, Vietnam Memorial, Wolf Point, Shedd Aquarium, and more, all while comfortably seated in a group capped at only six people.

(3,464)

from $28

Small-Group Sightseeing Boat Tour in Chicago

Small-Group Sightseeing Boat Tour in Chicago

Get ready for the most complete adventure the city has to offer—an immersive Full Day Chicago Food Tour and Walking Tour that blends Chicago’s legendary flavors with its most iconic landmarks. Savor Chicago Pizza, Hot Dogs, Italian Beef, Garrett’s Chicago Mix Popcorn, and the original Palmer House Brownie, or elevate your day with our VIP craft beer upgrade. This unforgettable Chicago in a Day Tour explores Millennium Park, the Chicago Riverwalk, Michigan Avenue, Cloud Gate, Chicago Theater, and more, guided by true local experts. Enjoy a 5-hour journey through culture and cuisine, plus a FREE 2-hour bike or kayak rental to continue the adventure along Lake Michigan. Recently honored among the “Top 10 Food Tours in America” (USA Today) and “Top 20 Food Tours in the World” (TripAdvisor), this award-winning Culinary Tour is one of the top Things to do in Chicago. Don’t miss the most delicious, scenic Full Day Food Tour in Chicago—all in one extraordinary day.

5.0

(108)

from $89

A Chicago hot dog loaded with bold, colorful toppings is one of the tastiest Things to do in Chicago. Our Chicago Food Tours feature this classic bite, making Food Tours in Chicago unforgettable.

Chicago Full-Day Walking Food Tour with Free Bike or Kayak Rental

5 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(2)

from $99

Get the most out of your trip to Chicago as you enjoy discount access to five of the city’s top attractions with the CityPASS®. This easy-to-use mobile ticket grants you free entry into top-tier sights including the Chicago's most famous aquarium and Skydeck Chicago, plus your choice of admission to three of the following attractions: Field Museum, Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Science and Industry, 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck, Adler Planetarium, or Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour.

from $144

Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

This tour cruises the Chicago River and Lake Michigan.

Eat your way through downtown Chicago on a walking food tour. Visit Millennium Park, the Palmer House Hotel, and other city landmarks and taste quintessential Chicago foods such as deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and chocolate brownies. All food tastings are included, and the tour covers an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km) suitable for most fitness levels. A bike or kayak rental is also included in the tour cost.

(2,404)

from $45

Taste deep-dish pizza, a Chicago-style hot dog, Italian beef, Garrett’s popcorn & the original 1893 brownie on our top-rated Chicago Food Tours—the ultimate Chicago Culinary Tour experience!

Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

Zoom along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, zipping past famous landmarks as you go, during this exhilarating speedboat ride in Chicago. Climb aboard your 2,000-horsepower speed boat at Navy Pier, then hang on for the ride of a lifetime, as you zip past famous attractions like the Willis Tower, Grant Park, and Buckingham Fountain, pausing to learn a little about the history and architecture of the Windy City along the way.

(2,237)

from $85

Lake Michigan 30-Minute Speedboat Ride

30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.1

(356)

from $37

Chicago River Ghost & Dark History Night Cruise

See Chicago from a different perspective on this evening cruise that explores the city’s darker side. As twilight settles over the skyline, glide along the Chicago River while hearing chilling tales of disasters, infamous criminals, and eerie legends tied to the city’s past. This relaxed river cruise blends atmospheric storytelling with some of the best nighttime views of Chicago’s renowned skyline and landmarks. Grab a drink from the onboard bar, settle in, and let the city’s shadowy history unfold as you cruise through the heart of downtown. By the end of the journey, you’ll have experienced Chicago’s skyline in a whole new way—while uncovering the chilling events, legends, and mysteries that shaped the city. Please arrive 30 minutes in advance!

Chicago River Ghost & Dark History Night Cruise

Maximize your Chicago sightseeing on a river cruise—and travel aboard a unique historical vessel, which other tours don’t offer—on this one-of-a-kind excursion. Pick from different departure times and board a classic Chicago fireboat, which served the city’s fire department from 1937 to 1981. As you sail Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, view architectural highlights including the Wrigley Building and Chicago Lighthouse, and chart the boat’s firefighting history via the on-board displays and commentary.

4.1

(175)

from $46

Historical and Architectural Chicago Fireboat River & Lake Cruise

Historical and Architectural Chicago Fireboat River & Lake Cruise

(430)

from $47

Admire a side of Chicago that few other visitors get to experience—and enjoy a relaxing trip out on the water, tailored to your party—with this private sailboat charter and sailing tour. You and up to five other guests will have the exclusive use of a sailboat, complete with a captain for the duration of your tour. Sail on Lake Michigan and enjoy the sights of Chicago’s striking skyline. If you want, you can even take a turn at the helm.

Heading out to Four Mile Crib on a beautiful day of sailing.

Private Sailing on Beautiful Lake Michigan - Navy Pier, Chicago

Chicago dogs, deep-dish pizza, brownies, and craft beer are all sampled on this half-day bike tour through the Windy City. Cover about 13 miles (21 km), following your guide at a moderate pace through Chicago neighborhoods. On the day tour, ride through Wrigleyville, Old Town, Lincoln Park, and Gold Coast. On the night tour, visit Chicago’s Riverwalk, Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain and the Lakefront Trail. As you go, stop for generous food and beer tasters.

5.0

(72)

from $508

Per group

From deep-dish to hot dogs, taste Chicago Classic Dishes on our Chicago Food & Bike Tour. Ride by Bicycle, learn the stories, and savor every stop on the best Food & Bike Tour in Chicago.

Chicago Bike & Classic Food Tour: Bikes, Bites & Views - Adults

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Enjoy a quintessential Chicago experience—and see more of the city's highlights in less time—on an architecture-themed boat tour of the Chicago River. Pick from multiple convenient start times, and board your vessel directly from the Chicago Riverwalk. Thanks to your trained docent guide, receive a rich introduction to the Windy City’s history, key landmarks, and architectural highlights—and spy landmarks like the Marina City towers and Navy Pier from the water’s edge.

(758)

from $89

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady

1 hour 30 minutes

(6,684)

from $57

City Cruises Chicago: Premier Plus Brunch Cruise on Chicago River

Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

4.5

(80)

from $85

1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(3,474)

from $49

Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

4.8

(1,837)

from $37

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Top Attractions in Chicago

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What are people saying about Chicago

Sandra_S, Jul 2026

Love it

It was my first time in Chicago, and the tour was fantastic; I was impressed by all the information and the guide's enthusiasm. The 90 minutes were spectacular, and the architecture was stunning. The boat was very clean, and the staff were incredibly friendly—right from the moment I arrived, the gentleman scanning tickets in line was super nice. I highly recommend this tour.

Chicago's Lake Michigan Downtown Kayak Rental at Ohio Street Beach

Justina_C, Jul 2026

Great for family and kids, too!

A must-do experience in Chicago! If you want to do something breathtaking and have a unique experience away from the bustle of the city, book this kayaking adventure! I had a family of 5- one 16yr old that did a single kayak, and a 6 and 10 yr old that rode tandem with parents and it was smooth, easy, and made a core memory.

Chicago Bike & Classic Food Tour: Bikes, Bites & Views - Adults

Charles_S, Jun 2026

Hop on that bike and have a blast.

If you want a fantastic overview of the areas outside of the immediate downtown this tour is fantastic. Should 12-13 mile rides on fairly comfortable bikes. Our tour guide Matt was very fun and great guy to listen and talk to. Plenty of food. Pizza, hot dog, cupcake and Italian beef. The views from the bike were fantastic! So many cool stops and the return ride along the lakefront was awesome. Highly recommend this tour!

Chicago's Delicious Downtown Donut Tour with 8 Amazing Tastings

kberteaux, May 2026

No notes

Super great introduction to several amazing downtown bakeries. My favorite was the Tahitian vanilla donut at Firecakes, followed by the red velvet at Dan's. There were PLENTY of donuts and I left happy and fully sugared out. This covers a lot of over a mile of walking, FYI. And it ended exactly on time which I always appreciate.

Field Museum of Natural History Admission Tickets

Heather_T, Feb 2026

Highly recommend!

Wow-what an incredible museum! I spent hours exploring! Highly recommend if you’re interested in earth’s history! So much to discover about plants, animals, and people. SUE is extraordinary! The ticket was super easy to purchase and I walked right in upon arrival. Overall, a fantastic experience!

City Cruises Chicago: Premier Plus Brunch Cruise on Chicago River

chloe_b, Dec 2025

Thank you leslie <3

Leslie made our experience wonderful! We celebrated my girlfriend’s birthday by doing the brunch. Even though it was raining, it was still beautiful! Leslie made sure that our mimosas were filled, the staff was very friendly, and food was delicious. We will definitely be back for another brunch or dinner!

Chicago Seadog River & Lake Architectural Tour

Steve_S, Sep 2025

Ryan and his entire team...

Ryan and his entire team were fantastic. They provided fun and engaging tour also allowing time for questions. We highly recommend attending this tour. It is suitable for all ages and especially fun for those who are interested in learning about the architecture of the downtown area.

Small-Group Sightseeing Boat Tour in Chicago

Sian_S, Sep 2025

Outstanding Value

Fantastic trip for a very reasonable price. The host was friendly and knowledgeable and made the trip a real pleasure. We were delighted to find this trip also included the city river tour in the price. One very slight improvement would be to make the location a little better signposted but we would definitely book again.