Lake Michigan and Chicago River Cruise

  • Instant Confirmation

  • Mobile Tickets

    Shown on your Phone

  • Dated Ticket

    Valid on selected date.

  • Duration

    1 h 30 min

  • Free Cancellation

    Free Cancellation 48 Hrs Prior

This 90-minute Lake Michigan and Chicago River cruise offers a unique view of Chicago's famous skyline from both the river and the lake. Guests can enjoy live commentary from guides who share stories about the city's rich architectural history and landmarks. The cruise passes by over 50 notable buildings and 13 historic bascule bridges, including the Willis Tower, AON Center, and John Hancock Building.

The vessel features an open-air upper deck with 360-degree views, perfect for sightseeing and photography. A full-service bar and snack bar are available on board for refreshments. The boat also includes climate-controlled interiors and restrooms for guest comfort.

The cruise departs rain or shine, with both open and covered seating options. Strollers are allowed but must be folded and stored during the cruise. Service dogs are welcome on board, and motorized wheelchairs and scooters are not permitted, though manual wheelchairs may be accommodated based on availability.

This tour suits those interested in architecture, city history, and scenic views, offering a relaxed way to explore Chicago's waterways and landmarks.

Read More

Lake Michigan and Chicago River Cruise Price & Options

1.5-Hour Sightseeing Cruise

Enjoy a 90-minute cruise on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. See famous Chicago landmarks with live English commentary. Choose from several daytime departure times.

Inclusions

  • 90-minute cruise on Chicago River and Lake Michigan
  • Live English commentary
US$ 46 US$ 43.95

Night Sightseeing Cruise

Enjoy a 90-minute cruise on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan at night. See the city's illuminated skyline and famous landmarks with live English commentary. Choose from several evening departure times.

Inclusions

  • 90-minute cruise on Chicago River and Lake Michigan
  • Live English commentary
US$ 49.95 US$ 47.90

Highlights

  • Explore Chicago's iconic skyline from both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan
  • Hear engaging live commentary from expert guides about the city's architectural history
  • See over 50 notable buildings and 13 historic bascule bridges along the route
  • Enjoy unobstructed 360-degree views from the open-air upper deck
  • Savor refreshments from the full-service bar and snack bar on board
  • Relax in climate-controlled interiors with well-appointed restrooms
  • Experience the Chicago Harbor Lock connecting Lake Michigan and the Chicago River

What's Included

  • Admission to the First Lady Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise
  • English-speaking live guide
  • Refreshments and snacks available for purchase on board
  • Access to well-appointed restrooms on the vessel

What's Not Included

  • Priority boarding
  • Hotel pick up and drop off
  • Meals and beverages not included unless purchased on board
  • Other personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities

Not Suitable For

  • Non-folding wheelchairs are not allowed
  • Motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated

Child Adult Policy

  • Children aged 0-3 travel free
  • Children aged 13 and older pay adult rates
  • Children under 4 years are free of charge

Pickup Time Drop Off Time

  • Arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time
  • Latecomers cannot enter once the cruise has started

Opening Hours

  • Subject to scheduled cruise times. Subject to change.

Things To Know

  • No luggage storage facility at the venue
  • Luggage and large bags are not allowed on the tour
  • Strollers must be folded and stored in the salon during the cruise
  • Children must be removed from strollers before boarding
  • Drones are not allowed
  • Cruises operate rain or shine
  • Service dogs are welcome and must be harnessed or leashed
  • Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and warm clothing as appropriate for the weather
  • Refer to the venue's official website for more information about accessibility

Starting End Point

  • Meet at 112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, United States
  • Look for the black awning with the First Lady logo
  • Take the stairway down to the riverwalk level to reach the box office

Location

How To Get There

  • The cruise departs from the First Lady dock at 112 E Wacker Drive, Chicago

How To Redeem

  • Present your mobile voucher at the box office
  • Voucher is valid only on the specified date and time

Cancellation Policy

  • Full refund if cancelled at least 48 hours before the activity date (local time)
  • Operator may cancel due to unforeseen events or extreme weather
  • If cancelled by operator, option to reschedule or receive full refund

FAQs

Below are some commonly asked questions. If you have any additional inquiries or need further clarification, please reach out to our team via live chat, contact us form, or WhatsApp.

You can see over 50 notable buildings and 13 historic bascule bridges, including the Willis Tower, AON Center, and John Hancock Building. The cruise offers views of Chicago's skyline from both the river and the lake.
The cruise lasts 90 minutes.
A full-service bar and snack bar are available on board for refreshments, which you can purchase.
Strollers are allowed but must be folded and stored during the cruise. Children must be removed from strollers before boarding.
Service dogs are welcome on board and must be harnessed or leashed.
Meet at 112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, United States. Look for the black awning with the First Lady logo and take the stairway down to the riverwalk level to reach the box office.
You get a full refund if you cancel at least 48 hours before the activity date. If the operator cancels, you can reschedule or get a full refund.
Children aged 0-3 travel free, and children aged 13 and older pay adult rates.

Related Activities