Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise
Recommended by 94% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Chicago, USA
- 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
Why travelers loved this
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Overview
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.
- Cruise both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan in one tour
- Enjoy fun, family-friendly stories from expert local tour guides
- See top landmarks like Navy Pier, Wrigley Building, and Soldier Field
- Snap skyline photos from a unique water-level perspective
What's Included
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Live commentary on board
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- First Lady112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, USA
On Michigan & Wacker Drive, at the northeast corner of the intersection. Upon arrival, please take the stairs down to Chicago's Riverwalk and visit the box office (right after/bottom of the stairs) for guidance to your cruise boarding dock. A departure board is available for your reference.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Itinerary
Chicago River (Pass By)
Lake Michigan (Pass By)
Navy Pier (Pass By)
John Hancock Center (Pass By)
Field Museum (Pass By)
Shedd Aquarium (Pass By)
Adler Planetarium (Pass By)
Soldier Field (Pass By)
Clarence F. Buckingham Fountain (Pass By)
Wrigley Building (Pass By)
Marina City (Pass By)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Near public transportation
- Most travelers can participate
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Discounted parking available at 111 E. Wacker Drive. Please visit the dockside box office for parking ticket validation
- Wheelchair accessibility varies by vessel. Please contact us in advance to confirm availability.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 115 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Phyllis_K
Despite the light rain and mist, this tour was the highlight of my trip to Chicago. The views from the lake were still great, even with the weather.
Jacob was our tour guide, and he was excellent. He was informative without being boring and clearly knows and loves the city. His stories made the experience much more enjoyable.
There was inside seating on the boat, but I spent most of my time outside taking in the views, even in the drizzle. One of the coolest parts was going through the locks between the river and the lake—it’s a unique experience that really added to the tour. Cruising through the river and then out onto the lake gave a great sense of the city’s architecture and skyline.
If you’re visiting Chicago, I highly recommend this cruise—even if the weather isn’t perfect. And if Jacob is your guide, you’re in good hands.
Reviews
4.7
based on 694 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Adrienne_T, Aug 2026
We missed the boat by a minute- it was still at the dock. I’d really like to re-book for a time in September when we are back out here from Nevada.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We apologize for your experience. Our boats must depart promptly to stay on schedule, and the departure process begins before the boat leaves the dock, during which we cannot accommodate additional passengers. We were also unable to locate your booking or any communication regarding a rebooking request. If you still need assistance, please contact us at clientservice@firstlady.com, and we’ll be happy to help.
Kate_b, Aug 2026
Fantastic with kids. Lets them see the city from the water so they can see how big it is while also seeing how the boat locks work. I think this is a must do with kids in Chicago.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Michael_M, Aug 2026
It was a great time. It was informative, scenery was awesome. The boarding and exiting was orderly. It was just an all around good time.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review and feedback. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Kyanna_R, Aug 2026
This tour was amazing and beautiful. 10/10 worth the money. Nice views. The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable on the architecture of Chicago. We got stuck BUUUUT the boat crew remained calm and got us back safely. They gave us a refund before we got back to shore. I would recommend getting new wine because the wine that was there was really nasty lol.
Chardrick_P, Aug 2026
The boat broke on us in the middle of lake Michigan. The crew worked to get us back but the damage was done for me. No clear communication when it happened. Got more communication from the boat the came to help
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We sincerely apologize for the disruption to your experience. While the captain did speak with guests regarding the situation, we understand that not everyone may have received the communication. Unfortunately, the boat had lost power, which prevented the captain from making an announcement over the PA system. We appreciate your feedback and will review the situation with our team to identify ways we can improve communication in the future.
Richell_S, Aug 2026
Great views of Chicago’s architectures from the river and Michigan lake. The guide was very informative!
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Jennifer_A, Aug 2026
We spent 15–20 minutes waiting for the doors to open at the Chicago Harbor Lock—twice—only to spend about 90% of the time floating around Lake Michigan, going back and forth and looking at the skyline. Yes, it’s beautiful, but you can only see so much of it, and we would have much rather seen the actual city. So, if you’re looking for an architecture tour down the river to see downtown Chicago, this is not it.
Save your money.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We’re sorry the experience did not meet your expectations. This cruise is a sightseeing tour, not an architecture tour, and is designed to offer views of Chicago’s skyline from both the river and Lake Michigan. We understand that you were hoping for a different type of experience and appreciate you sharing your feedback.
Timothy_M, Aug 2026
Very knowledgeable on city history the ride was the perfect amount of time and the history was very impressive
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Shelia_H, Aug 2026
It was a great experience to spend time on both the lake and the river. The tour ended up lasting longer than expected due to extra time going thru the locks.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review and feedback. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Ken_P, Aug 2026
Very informative and relaxing. Great views of the city. The crew was attentive and very educated about the history of the city.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Kitsy_C, Aug 2026
We loved the tour! It was very cool to see how the locks work and to view the city from the lake. We loved hearing many stories about the city. If it’s hot weather sit in the front of the boat for the breeze. Perfect!
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review and feedback. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Mark_B, Aug 2026
Difficulty in finding the correct boat some of the staff members were unsure of locations sent to wrong boat by the time I arrived to
proper boat we were unable to board supposedly had a cancellation clause but we were unable too use lost the 92.00 dollars
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We sincerely apologize for the confusion and frustration you experienced while trying to locate the correct boat. We understand how disappointing it was to miss your departure after being directed to the wrong location. We’ll share your feedback with our team to help improve communication and ensure guests receive clear and accurate directions.
Carmen_N, Aug 2026
One of the best choices I made for my Chicago vacation. It is beautiful! The guide was awesome. The boat is well equipped. Everything was the best. Recommended 💯.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
LaRina_S, Aug 2026
The boat went right into shooting water😫 the driver had to have timed it. It was already cold, windy, and rainy. That was not the time for that type of game.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We take your concerns very seriously. No other passengers, crew members, or the captain reported an incident involving water being intentionally sprayed onto the boat. We would like to look into this further, so please contact us at clientservice@firstlady.com with the date and time of your tour, along with any additional details you can provide. We apologize for the discomfort this caused.
Alfred_M, Aug 2026
It’s a great experience touring Chicago within 2 hours. Seeing all the beautiful buildings that made Chicago a great city
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed our tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Dmitry_B, Aug 2026
Excellent tour on a boat that takes you to the lake and through the river. You can takes amazing pics of the city. The guides tells you about the buildings and their history. I'd definitely recommend it.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Leanne_S, Aug 2026
Tour was cancelled due to technical difficulties. The tannoy didn’t work so we couldn’t hear the tour guide. We were told we would get a refund immediately. I still have not received my refund. It probably would’ve been great had it been functional…
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We sincerely apologize that technical difficulties impacted your experience and that the tour had to be canceled. We understand how frustrating this must have been. Your refund has been processed, and we appreciate your patience and understanding.
James_H, Aug 2026
Water was too high for this event. That's completely understandable BUT an email should have been sent out. Parking anywhere near this place is expensive and they knew it was cancelled hours before scheduled time.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We sincerely apologize for the cancellation and the inconvenience it caused. The water level was gradually dropping throughout the day as the river drained, so we were hopeful that conditions would improve enough to operate the tour. Unfortunately, we ultimately had to cancel. We understand how frustrating this was, especially with the added expense of parking, and appreciate your understanding.
Stephanie_D, Aug 2026
We had an excellent time on our tour. Our guide did an excellent job. She was knowledgeable and her content was entertaining.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Ricky_C, Jul 2026
This was the perfect tour for our first visit. We had the two grandkids, 9 and 12 and they loved it. They really don’t care about history at this age but it was presented in a way they really paid attention. I learned a lot myself. I chose this tour because I liked it was going into Lake Michigan. We do some vacations in Michigan and wanted to let them see Lake Michigan from a different angle. I’ll be back and I’m sticking with this company!! Thank You!
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you return soon.
Laureb_A, Jul 2026
It was a great way to get the Birds Eye view of the city and the complicated way it was developed. And it was a gorgeous day.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Anita_S, Jul 2026
Our guide was informative and interesting. She had a fun sense of humor and covered all the highlights of Chicago architecture and history. The weather was perfect for a trip on the water.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Agatha_S, Jul 2026
Tour guide, Doug, was very knowledgeable. Had Captain Jorge, who was very able. The experience goes rain or shine so be ready to go if it does rain.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hello Agatha,
Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re thrilled to hear that Doug’s narration and Captain Jorge’s expertise helped make your cruise enjoyable. We appreciate you highlighting our rain-or-shine operation, this will help guests who book in the future. We hope to have you join us again soon for more incredible views and stories of Chicago from the water!
Victoria_G, Jul 2026
The best of both cruising worlds - Chicago river and the lake cruise in one! Hear about the architecture on the banks of Chicago River then go through the engineering marvel of Great Lock and end up on Lake Michigan, where the views of skyline 🏙️ are unmatched! Totally recommend
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hello Victoria,
Thank you for cruising with us and sharing your experience! We’re delighted that you enjoyed the unique combination of exploring the Chicago River and Lake Michigan on our Sightseeing Cruise. From the stunning architecture along the riverbanks to the incredible views of the city skyline from the lake, we’re thrilled you were able to take in so many of Chicago’s highlights. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you aboard again soon for another memorable journey!
Felicia_T, Jul 2026
The bathroom door is heavy. lol The tour guide was very knowledgeable and funny. We will be back to do it again.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hello Felicia,
Thank you for your feedback! We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed the cruise and that our guide’s knowledge and humor made your experience memorable. We appreciate your note about the bathroom door, we'll make a suggestion to make this easier. We look forward to welcoming you back aboard for another fun and informative Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise!
Julia_J, Jul 2026
This was a last minute add to our itinerary and was a highlight for all of us. Our kids (age 9 and 17) all enjoyed the experience of being on the boat and learning about the buildings.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hello Julia,
Thank you for choosing our Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise as part of your Chicago itinerary! We’re thrilled to hear that it turned into a highlight for your family. It’s wonderful to know that guests of all ages—from your 9-year-old to your 17-year-old—enjoyed the boat ride and learning about the city’s incredible history. Our team loves sharing Chicago’s stories, fun facts, and iconic sights with visitors, and we’re so glad you had a memorable experience with us. We hope to welcome your family aboard again for another adventure!
Sarah_G, Jul 2026
Such an informative and fun boat cruise. The crew and sights were amazing. Would highly recommend this river/lake cruise!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hello Sarah,
Thank you for taking the time to share your wonderful feedback! We’re delighted to hear that you had such an enjoyable experience on our Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise. It’s great to know that you found the tour both informative and entertaining, and that our crew helped make your time on the water memorable. We love sharing Chicago’s history, iconic sights, and fun facts with our guests while providing breathtaking views of the city. Thank you for the recommendation, and we look forward to welcoming you aboard again soon!
Heather_S, Jul 2026
Fun, relaxing, entertaining, captivating. Overall amazing to see and hear history and feel air rushing by on the lake.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Kimberly_D, Jul 2026
Beautiful day to go sightseeing of the Chicago River and Lae Michigan. The moderator was funny and very knowledgeable
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
Justin_P, Jul 2026
The sights were beautiful and the information was very interesting. The crew was very nice and helpful. I really enjoyed the cruise.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.
From $46.00
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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