chicago river tour night

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise Aboard Chicago's First Lady

The only Chicago River Cruise named to the Top 10 Boat Tours in North America—3 years in a row!

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“So worth it. This was a highlight of our trip. Just beautiful. Very interesting info, too! We learned a lot and had a great time.” - Mandfamily404

“An absolute pleasure! Best money spent, great time enjoyed by all. The scenery was spectacular, family friendly, romantic, and so easy to do. We went back to back.” - Anthony D

“Amazing experience - fantastic commentary!! Would definitely recommend to anyone visiting Chicago. A must-do trip.” -Dalesboy

#1 Rated Boat Cruise in Chicago!

Led by the Chicago Architecture Center's expertly trained docent volunteers, this 90-minute cruise reveals fascinating stories behind Chicago's majestic buildings in a way no other tour can.

Learn about the architects who created our city's magnificent buildings—and the stories behind them. Experience why the CAC's boat cruise is rated the best year after year.

This classic tour aboard the city's most luxurious fleet, is a must for out-of-town visitors and Chicagoans alike.

Tickets start at $53.85.

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EVENING CRUISES AVAILABLE

The city's most popular tour is now offered in the evening. Serene and bathed in softer light, the city's architecture takes on a whole new life in the setting sun.

VISIT THE CENTER

For the ultimate Chicago architecture experience, take the river cruise AND visit the Chicago Architecture Center—you'll save $9!

NOW IN 4 LANGUAGES

Continental French, Latin American Spanish, Japanese and Korean translation available via the "Listen Everywhere" app.

Highlights of this tour

Chicago Riverwalk

1 w. lower wacker drive.

Strolling along Chicago’s beautiful Riverwalk, it’s hard to imagine just how much things have changed…

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

Architect/firm.

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) was founded in 1936 by Louis Skidmore and Nathaniel Owings. Partner…

trunnion bascule bridge

trunnion is a French word for "stump" or pivot point; bascule is a French word for "see-saw"; a trunnion…

Tribune Tower

435 n. michigan ave..

In 1922, on the occasion of its 75th anniversary, the Chicago Tribune announced an international competition…

London Guarantee Building

360 n. michigan ave..

Located where Fort Dearborn once stood, the London Guarantee & Accident Building is one of four structures…

330 North Wabash / AMA Plaza (IBM Plaza)

330 n. wabash ave..

One of the last American projects designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this powerful Modernist structure…

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

It’s difficult to imagine what the skyline of Chicago might look like without architect Ludwig Mies van…

Arts and Crafts

The Arts and Crafts movement originated in England in the mid-19th century as an antidote to the dehumanizing…

150 North Riverside

150 n. riverside.

Gravity-defying 150 North Riverside has already taken its rightful place among Chicago’s architectural…

a large vertical, concrete pier, cast in place and used in a foundation where the soil is unstable

333 West Wacker

333 w. wacker dr..

When you’ve got it, you’ve got it—and 333 West Wacker has it.

Apple Michigan Avenue

401 n. michigan ave..

Foster + Partners’ Apple Michigan Avenue store is an impressive, airy glass box with a curved-edge…

Merchandise Mart

222 w. merchandise mart plaza.

Size has always mattered in the Midwest.

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Architecture Tour

TripAdvisor users rank the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady as the city's #1 boat tour.

There’s one sure recipe to make your business or social event even more memorable – just add water and Chicago’s First Lady!

Recalling the handsome elegance of 20th century luxury yachts, our vessels are sure to make an impression. Choose from seven perfectly sized ships for your private event.

Your wedding is the start of your lifelong journey together, so begin that journey in a truly memorable way - a wedding cruise down the Chicago River.

Evening River Cruise

Experience our renowned daytime CAC River Cruise in the glow of the setting sun. Take in the city’s magnificent architecture bathed in golden light as it begins its transition from day to night.

“The very best city tour I have been on in my life! We were in America for a month and this was our best morning.” - JurassicBill TripAdvisor, Dorset UK

- Latest Articles -

Top Occasions to Celebrate on the Chicago River

The Chicago River, with its winding beauty amidst the city’s architectural wonders, offers a unique backdrop…

Appreciating What Chicago's Unique Waterways Have to Offer

If you've always dreamed of creating a truly unforgettable wedding experience, consider sailing into…

Cruise into Happily Ever After Aboard Chicago's First Lady

See our full blog.

"What an amazing experience, this tour brings all the beautiful architecture and history to life.” - Rachel M Yelp, Arizona, USA

Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours

Chicago River Tours | Fireworks Tours | Jazz/Cocktail Tours

River Boat Tours

Book your tour now, book by phone: (708) 488-6343, about the tours, chicago river boat architecture tours .

Welcome to Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours!  We’re proud to present you with an in-depth, expert architectural-based river boat tour that delves into one of the most remarkable American cities today. Known for unique, daring, and historical architectural pursuits, it’s hard to cover all of the design and building treasures that make up the Windy City today. If you’re ready to learning more about the designs, people, and innovations behind these creations, throw on your captains hat and get ready to cruise along the Chicago River and see what architects from around the world travel to see in Chicago.

About The Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours

Chicago is known around the world for its architectural feats, both inside and outside of the buildings. From the 100-year-old Art Deco, Neo-Classical, and Gothic Towers, to some of the tallest modern-day skyscrapers, Chicago is where old meets futuristic architectural endeavors. It has something for everyone in a way that no other city replicates today.

Why Tour Chicago’s Architecture with Us?

We are born-and-raised Chicagoans ourselves, passionate about the community that we know and love. That passion and desire spills into all of our tours, drawing on personal experiences for curating a tour that just can’t be duplicated by a book or a movie. We want you to experience everything firsthand. Why tour with us?

• Expertise: All of our tour guides are either architects, architecture students, or architecture historians, making for an in-depth and personally rooted kind of touring experience that covers all of the discreet details.
• Variety: We offer a variety of uniquely different tours that cover everyone’s individual taste. We offer the Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour that takes you down the famous Chicago River; there are several different options such as Architecture, History, Cocktail Cruises and Firework Viewing Tours
• Flexibility : We want you to enjoy your Chicago River Boat touring experience, which is why we’re happy to talk with you and learn more about how our tours can accommodate you, your party, or your corporate outing. Our tours run daily, with availability always posted on our website here.

Our Tours  

• Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour : When in Chicago, cruising down the Chicago River is  a must. Except with us, you’ll be taking in the architecture of the buildings that line the beautiful river. We provide detailed explanations of the construction and history of over 50 significant buildings, wrapping up at the end of the river.
• Chicago River Boat Cocktail Tour : Join us for this great Architecture Tour while sipping craft cocktails, beer or wine available for purchase at our bar on board!
• Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruise :  Fireworks, one of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China were invented in the 12th century. Chicago approved City-Wide Use of Fireworks on the 4th of July 1893,. Mayor of Chicago Patrick Eugene Prendergast issued a proclamation approving the use of fireworks to celebrate the World’s Colombian Exposition and to celebrate the nation’s 117th Independence Day. This fascination with fireworks, noise, and color continues today. The City of Chicago offers a fireworks show at Navy Pier on Saturday nights at 10:15 p.m. The Fireworks Cruise sails on both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan each Saturday at 8:30 pm.

Our Commitment to Your Touring Experience

We believe that tours should be entertaining, enlightening, informational, and perfectly organized, every single time. A tour shouldn’t feel laborious in any way; you should feel an effortless inclination to learn more about what we present at your fingertips. With our Chicago architectural tours, that’s exactly what we strive to provide, basing each tour from the perspective of an expert with the real-life example in the background.

If you’re thinking about booking a tour with us, know that our commitment to flexibility and accessible makes our Chicago Architecture Tours easy and convenient:

• 3 pm *Not Available Friday thru Sunday Summer Months*
• 6:30 pm (Jazz Band, Cocktail w/bar) *Sunday Only*
• 8 pm (Wednesdays)
• 8:30 pm (Saturdays)
• Seniors $48
• Youths $30 (7-12 years old)
• Children 6 and under Free

BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY

Click Here to Purchase a Gift Certificate

Chicago river boat cocktail tour.

Join us in the evening to sip cocktails while cruising the historic Chicago River! Get the same tour just with a cocktail in your hand! Premium bar on board with craft cocktails, wine and beer available for purchase. Drinks may be purchased individually with a credit card on the boat. Tour Information Pricing Adults $49… Continue reading Chicago River Boat Cocktail Tour

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Chicago river boat architectural tour.

Forming a length of 156 miles when combined, the Chicago River is a system of rivers and canals the characterize the infamous skyline of Chicago today. The river, running through the city, including the city center Chicago Loop, is evident of man made design and infrastructure when completed craftily. In 1887, the river was reversed… Continue reading Chicago River Boat Architectural Tour

Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruises (w/ Architecture Tour)

Enjoy your favorite drink while gazing Chicago’s magnificent architecture and finish your cruise with fabulous light show, at Navy Pier. Fireworks, one of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China were invented in the 12th century. Chicago approved City-Wide Use of Fireworks on the 4th of July 1893,. Mayor of Chicago Patrick Eugene Prendergast issued… Continue reading Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruises (w/ Architecture Tour)

Chicago by Night: 90 Minute River and Lakefront Cruise

• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• Live commentary on board
• 112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, USA
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 250 travelers
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• Shedd Aquarium
• Field Museum
• Adler Planetarium
• Soldier Field
• Wrigley Building

Similar experiences

• You'll start at 112 E Wacker Dr 112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, USA See address & details
• 1 Chicago River Stop: 45 minutes See details
• 2 Lake Michigan Stop: 45 minutes See details Pass by Buckingham Fountain John Hancock Center Wrigley Building Adler Planetarium Shedd Aquarium Field Museum Soldier Field Navy Pier
• You'll return to the starting point

• JOY C 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Definitely recommend geat views We would definitely recommend this trip it. Absolutely beautiful showing parts of the city only seen on water , great knowledge told by the host, drink service also available, Read more Written October 25, 2023
• Angela H 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Worth every dollar! A very comfortable and informative tour which included both Lake Michigan and the city canals accessed through the Locke. Read more Written October 13, 2023
• 460joannl 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Entertaining, Informative, Breathtaking views! This tour was perfect for us! The Chicago skyline views were breathtaking. We loved the combination lake and river tour. Our guide, John, was very informative and we learned a lot about the buildings, lake and culture of the city. This tour is a must for first time visitors to Chicago and a great trip for anyone wishing to enjoy an entertaining boat ride in Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. It was the highlight of our visit! Read more Written October 7, 2023
• M6867QTannag 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Timely tour I was able to reschedule my trip and the teller had our tickets labeled and ready to go. Our boat was able to accommodate us in spite of the cold weather. Very timely. Read more Written October 7, 2023
• cheryll994 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great time. Thoroughly enjoyed. The weather did not quite cooperate but the crew was great. They were very informative as well as fun. Would definitely recommend as a quick way to learn and see the Chicago coast/sky line. Read more Written October 2, 2023
• CHNgaki12 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A cruisey, safe time Booked via Mercury Skyline Cruiseline on the spot - no queues at this time - so avoided bad weather. Captain and crew were awesome. Our guide Layke was excellent - his mother should be very proud! Clear and insightful commentary on Chicago history, architecture, and recipes for fun and seeing this beautifully "windfully" city! Read more Written September 26, 2023
• jp20141 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Get priority boarding Enjoyed the views and stories. Worth every penny to get the priority boarding and have a good seat. Dress in layers. Drinks for sale on the boat. Read more Written September 25, 2023
• Happybeckie 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A trip on a boat on the lake with Lake We had a great trip on Monday in the sunshine. Lake was a fantastic guide. He really knew his stuff. I was glad it wasn’t raining as we would have got really rather wet. Or sat inside. Not sure why the other tours were so much busier. I doubt they could have been any better Read more Written September 22, 2023
• R8310ILxavierc 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience and Faster! in general everything was very good. Getting tickets, faster boarding and very good service. The only issue is that I did not have clear information about where exactly the boarding access was located it :-( Read more Written September 17, 2023
• 178mirandas 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lake tour with the family Fun tour, very helpful company. We had trouble with finding our tickets and they found a solution. Had a great time on the River and lake. Very knowledgeable and friendly history guide. My dad had a great time talking with her Read more Written September 15, 2023
• X3840VAchrisc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Informative Very informative and lots to see during this hour long cruise through the river as well as into Lake Michigan. Weather was beautiful which was definitely a plus. Read more Written September 15, 2023
• ElizabethC986 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour - would definitely recommend. The cruise was outstanding, and the boat was mid-size, so not one of the mega boats. Layke was an awesome cruise director. The tour was really well done. I would definitely do it again, and recommend it highly to anyone that wants to take a lake/river cruise. 90 minutes was the perfect length, and going through the locks was very fun. Read more Written September 13, 2023
• A3872VBgregp 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Loved the Twilight Tour This was a great trip and a good value. The combination of an open lake cruise and a run up the Chicago river was perfect. We did the twilight tour at 7:00pm, which was a great choice. Read more Written September 11, 2023
• Rupesh S 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome Boat cruise Beautifuly organized tour...excellent commentary...Timing and Behavior...Me and my family enjoyed a lot...The tour showed the sky line and also in the river Read more Written September 10, 2023
• kendraa646 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend Enjoyed the views, and learning about the origins of Chicago. Our guide, Lake, was great. Bring a jacket! It's breezy on the lake. Read more Written September 9, 2023

More to explore in Chicago

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Chicago by Night: 90 Minute River and Lakefront Cruise provided by Mercury, Chicago's Skyline Cruiseline

• Architecture River Tour

Windy City wow

World-famous landmarks.

There’s nothing quite like seeing Chicago’s world-famous architecture from all three branches of the Chicago River. From hidden treasures to the city’s most well-known sights, you’ll view over 40 Chicago landmarks on our 75-minute Architecture River Boat Tours. 

Enjoy the spectacular views as you listen to our tour guides tell you how Chicago’s buildings, architecture, and engineering made the city famous.

Casting off

Our Architecture River Tours depart from two docks, one at Michigan Avenue and the other at Navy Pier. No matter which dock you depart from, you’ll see all of the spectacular sights as you tour the Chicago River.

Michigan Avenue

401 N. Michigan Ave

Steps off of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, our Michigan Avenue dock starts your tour in the heart of the Chicago River.

124 N. Streeter Drive

Start your tour down the Chicago River at our Navy Pier dock, which sits at the entrance to the iconic Navy Pier boardwalk. This dock is more accessible to wheelchairs.

Our Architecture River Tour takes you up and down the three branches of the Chicago River, providing breathtaking views of Chicago’s famous skyscrapers and landmarks at every turn.

Adults: $49.95

Children (3-12): $26.95

Children 2 and under: Free

Tour highlights:

• 75-minute, guided boat tour
• Unique views from the water create an entirely new perspective of the city
• 40+ landmarks including the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City
• Hear the stories of Chicago’s architects and engineers while viewing their magnificent buildings

Sightseeing in Chicago?

Chicago CityPASS® tickets save 48% on premier admission  to Chicago’s top 5 attractions, including the Architecture River Tour. Visit the attractions at your own pace, in any order, over a 9-day period. One easy purchase and mobile ticket delivery saves you time and money.

Book an Architecture River Tour

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Architecture River Tour

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Skyline Lake Tour

Save 48% at 5 top attractions

Where would you like to leave from?

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Please select Navy Pier. (Skyline Lake Tours are unavailable from Michigan Avenue.)

600 E. Grand Ave

When would you like to go?

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Note: Fireworks tours available Wednesday and Saturday evenings in the summer.

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Click the time you’d like to set sail

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Now in its 83rd season, Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis.

(312) 222-9328 ext. 1 [email protected]

• Skyline Tour
• Fireworks Tour
• Water Taxis
• Accessibility Information

Your guide to Chicago lake and river cruises

One of the best ways to see Chicago is from the water. The city is home to two stunning waterfronts — the Chicago River and Lake Michigan — and each offers plenty of cruise options. Admire the skyline on a lakefront cruise, learn about the city’s iconic architecture on a Chicago River cruise, enjoy dinner and dancing aboard an all-glass vessel, sip cocktails on a tiki-themed boat, paddle your own kayak — the options are truly endless. Here’s your guide to Chicago lake and river cruises, boat tours, dinner cruises, and beyond.

See it all with Shoreline Sightseeing

One of Chicago’s classic cruise options, Shoreline Sightseeing covers all the bases. Their ultra-popular Architecture River Tour takes you on all three branches of the historic Chicago River takes you past dozens of landmark buildings.

They also offer skyline lake tours, plus specialty cruises and holiday events. Hop on a boat at Navy Pier or on Michigan Avenue.

Dine on the water with City Experiences

City Experiences dining cruises are the perfect way to create a memorable moment in Chicago. Choose from a river or lake dining cruise, complete with delicious cuisine, cocktails, and entertainment.

Their glass-enclosed river vessel is particularly stunning. It offers passengers panoramic views of the city’s most iconic buildings as you glide along the Chicago River. They also offer lakefront brunch and dinner cruise options that depart from Navy Pier.

Entertain the family with Wendella Boats

For three generations, Wendella Tours and Cruises has been cruising the Chicago waterways. With its variety of tour options, cruise times and lengths, and a heated, enclosed cabin, Wendella is a great choice for families looking for flexibility. Choose from lake & river architecture, sunset cruises, and more.

Admire architecture with Chicago’s First Lady

Around the world, Chicago is known for its outstanding architecture, and it’s easiest to admire the city’s legacy from the water. By partnering with the Chicago Architecture Center , Chicago’s First Lady offers the most comprehensive tour of the skyline — docents must train 100 hours before they can lead tours.

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 Chicago’s iconic Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Museum Campus, and more.

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 you’ll 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.

Go back in time with Chicago Fireboat Tours

Step onto a real, historic fireboat and get ready for a unique experience with Chicago Fireboat Tours . The river tours are given aboard a real piece of Chicago history — a retired fireboat that patrolled the Chicago from 1937 to 1981. Tours are led by expert docents and include historic and sunset options.

Splurge on a Free Spirit Yacht Cruises

Looking to splurge a little? These private yacht charters are the way to go. The spacious yachts comfortably fit up to 49 or 120 people, making them the perfect option for a large celebration or an intimate gathering. Premium bar and catering packages round out the experience.

Explore the Chicago River with Urban Kayaks

If you’re ready to ditch the captain and explore the water on your own, then it’s time to grab a paddle at Urban Kayaks . You’ll go through a brief training session before you hit the water, but you’re free to paddle the river or lake at your own pace. Or join in a guided tour to catch the sunset, fireworks, or historic highlights. Rentals are available at the Chicago Riverwalk or Monroe Harbor.

Rent an electric boat

Chicago Electric Boat Company offers fun and unique ways to get out on the water, including donut boats, retro boats, and even a bike boat that your group can pedal down the Chicago River. Rental locations include Marina City, the Chicago Riverwalk, and Rockwell on the River in Avondale.

See the skyline aboard Mercury Cruises

While Chicago’s summer fireworks are already fun to watch, it’s an entirely new experience when you’re on a 3D tour. Before the show, you’ll cruise around the lake and see some of Chicago’s famous landmarks.

Mercury Cruises also offer Urban Adventure, Canine Cruises, and Chicago by Night tours.

Check out Chinatown via Chicago Water Taxi

Hop on! The Chicago Water Taxi is a fun and cheap way to get around Chicago. The Water Taxi stops at Ogilvie Transportation Center, Chinatown, Goose Island, the Chicago Riverwalk, Michigan Avenue, and River North. Get a one-way ticket for $6 or an all-day pass for $10. Check their daily routes and schedules for more details. Cruises.

From this article

Tours & Attractions

Chicago architecture center.

Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline

Shoreline Sightseeing Company

Streeterville

Special Event Venues

Free spirit yacht cruises.

Urban Kayaks

River North

Wendella Tours & Cruises

The Magnificent Mile

Chicago’s First Lady Cruises

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CHICAGO'S ORIGINAL ARCHITECTURE TOUR®

BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE

Choose your adventure, chicago river architecture tour (90 minutes).

Take in the world-renowned architecture as our expert guides tell the story of 130 years of architectural innovation.

We like our drinks stiff, not our tour guides.

Chicago River Architecture Tour (45 minutes)

This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length architecture tours.

The Ultimate Chicago experience.

We're In the People Business

This was one tour that I can honestly say was worth doing & probably should be a must do/ see on your visit to Chicago.

Ginette, 2023

We were recommended the architecture boat tour by a few locals and it was absolutely amazing!! Beautiful views from anywhere you sat and an extremely knowledgeable and funny tour guide led the trip. Great value for money and so so worth it. Thank you!!

Jessica W, 2024

The skyline was beautiful and the buildings all shined differently. Pictures come out amazing!

Christina, 2023

SEE FOR YOURSELF

Book your experience now.

• Accessibility

THANKS FOR A GREAT 2023 CRUISING SEASON

We can't wait to welcome you aboard in 2024!

Katherine O. Yelp, Chicago, Illinois

Urban Adventure Cruise

Experience it all—Chicago's glorious skyscrapers, iconic bridges, and buildings and other modern marvels—on Mercury, Chicago's Skyline Cruiseline's most popular tour, the Urban Adventure Cruise! Relax and unwind on a scenic Chicago River boat tour and Lake Michigan cruise. Beginning on the Chicago Riverwalk, enjoy the lively narration of Chicago's rich history as you take in the Willis Tower, Aon Center, 875 N Michigan Ave, Museum Campus, Marina City and more. It's fun for the whole family!

May 24 - July 12 Departing Monday - Thursday at 10:15am, 12:15pm, 2:15pm, 4:15pm & 6:15pm Departing Friday - Sunday at 11:15am, 1:30pm, 3:45pm & 6:00pm Departing select weekends at 10:15am, 12:15pm, 2:30pm, 4:45pm & 7:00pm

July 13 - October 14 Departing Monday - Thursday at 10:15am, 12:15pm, 2:15pm, 4:15pm and 6:15pm Departing Friday at 11:15am, 1:30pm, 3:45pm, & 6:00pm Departing Saturday - Sunday at 1:30pm, 3:45pm & 6:00pm Departing select weekends at 10:15am, 12:15pm, 2:30pm, 4:45pm & 7:00 pm

• Mon 10:15 am 12:15 pm 2:15 pm 4:15 pm 6:15 pm
• Tues 10:15 am 12:15 pm 2:15 pm 4:15 pm 6:15 pm
• Wed 10:15 am 12:15 pm 2:15 pm 4:15 pm 6:15 pm
• Thu 10:15 am 12:15 pm 2:15 pm 4:15 pm 6:15 pm
• Fri 10:15 am 12:15 pm 2:15 pm 4:15 pm 6:15 pm
• Sun 10:15 am 12:15 pm 2:15 pm 4:15 pm 6:15 pm
• Fri 10:15 am 12:45 pm 1:45 pm 3:15 pm 4:15 pm 5:45 pm
• Sun 10:15 am 12:45 pm 1:45 pm 3:15 pm 4:15 pm 5:45 pm

Julie G., Facebook

CHICAGO BY NIGHT! Cruise

Glide along the Chicago River and Lakefront as you're dazzled by the sparkle of the city at night. Hear lively commentary as you feel the night breezes and see Chicago’s dramatic skyline transformed into a glittering jewel. Family-friendly boat tours are our specialty!

May 24 - October 14 Departing Monday, Thursday, Friday & Sunday at 8:15pm

Jordan J., TripAdvisor

3D Fireworks Cruise

Experience a getaway without leaving the city on our 3D Fireworks Cruise, departing Wednesdays and Saturdays from the Chicago Riverwalk every week during the summer months. Enjoy lively narration and capture stunning photos of Chicago’s skyline. Then put on your complimentary “3D” glasses and enjoy a musical soundtrack as you take in an unbeatable view of a spectacular fireworks display!

May 25 - August 31 Departing Wednesdays at 8:00pm & Saturdays at 8:30pm (cruises the lake only)

John N. Facebook, Chicago, IL

Canine Cruise

Dogs on boats? Yes! Bring your pooch on a leash and enjoy quality time with your dog while cruising on Chicago's waterways. Sit back, relax and soak in the city as you enjoy a lively narration of Chicago’s rich history and architectural marvels with dog-friendly highlights. Keep your dog on your lap, in a seat or on the deck. Our dog cruise boat offers plenty of safe outdoor seating, water bowls and an exclusive newspaper-lined restroom for your pet. Enjoy a great day out of doors with your favorite companion.

July 13 - October 13 Departing Saturdays & Sundays at 11:15am

Laurie C., Facebook, Scotland

Science is Fun! Cruise

Arrange a school field trip or summer camp group outing to spend a day of fun, science and learning on Chicago’s majestic river and Lake Michigan! Cool experiments, slimy creatures, and skyline views make for an engaging Chicago science field trip that students will never forget. Learn more about our educational "Science is Fun Cruise" for school, camp and scout groups here.

Departing Select Weekdays Contact us for more information.

“What an amazing tour. I've lived in Chicago for 12 years and was shocked to find how much I didn't know!”

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+1 (312) 852-9258

1220 W Lemoyne Ave., Chicago, IL

Monday – Sunday, 10am – 7pm

Enjoy Chicago’s Best Outdoor Experience

Book now with kayak chicago, join us: st. paddy’s day paddle.

Join us March 16th on the emerald waters of the Chicago River for our annual St. Paddy’s Day paddle. You may even see some leprechauns on the water!

On March 16th, you can paddle the “Green River” for St. Patrick’s day, as we paddle through the canyons of the Chicago River surrounded by thousands of celebrating on-lookers. Cruise through the emerald water on a day when we are one of the few boats on the river. A unique experience, with amazing pictures and stories to tell. Experience the spectacle first-hand, gliding through the green water as the crowds on shore cheer us on!

Opening day, May 5th!

Our Chicago river location will be open Friday through Sunday in May from 10-6pm for rentals and guided tours. Our Beach locations open May 27th and all three locations will be open 7 days a week after Memorial Day.

Join us for the best experience in Chicago! Kayak down the Chicago river through the canyons of glass and steel on a guided tour or explore at your own pace with a single or double kayak rental.  Float off North Ave. beach for skyline views, or play on a paddle board at Chicago’s secret escape, Montrose beach.

Our guides and staff are here to help you learn, be safe and enjoy everything paddling! We want your experience to be amazing from the moment you arrive until you say goodbye.  Our goal is for every guest to walk away with something new, whether it is a new found passion for paddling, fun facts about Chicago’s history and architecture, or new skills to keep you coming back for more.

What ever level of paddling experience you have, we are here to help you learn and grow as a paddler. Come for the fun and prepare for the sun! Sunblock, sunglasses and a hat keep you protected and water and a snack will keep you hydrated and energized.

Kayak Chicago offers kayak tours and stand-up paddleboard tours. For example, you can tour Chicago architecture, the Chicago River, Montrose Beach, North Avenue Beach, the Air and Water Show, and Fireworks tours after dark.

We offer classes at all levels for kayaking, stand-up paddleboard, yoga, and paddling fitness. Accordingly, each class is a combination of on-the-beach and on-water lessons providing the perfect outdoor classroom and learning environment.

Chicago’s original kayak and paddleboard outfitter. Therefore, our kayak shops have everything you need for your urban adventure on the Chicago River, family outings at Montrose Beach, or catching some sunshine at North Avenue Beach.

Chicago River

Paddle the northern branch of the Chicago River. Get a close look as wildlife scurries around the Wild Mile, the breathtaking skyline of downtown Chicago, and brag to your friends that you circumnavigated Goose Island.

North Ave Beach

Golden sand, glacier waves, and beach volleyball. Don't forget your sunglasses

Montrose Beach

Wildlife Oasis. Daydream near the bird sanctuary and hang out with puppies near the dog beach. Hop on a kayak or SUP to get away from it all and enjoy the summer breeze.

Buy a Gift Certificate

There is no better way to relax and enjoy a Chicago summer! Gift your friends and family an experience of a lifetime and a summer adventure to look forward to, with our paddling gift certificates. Start planning your next day on the water.

Fresh air, adventure, exercise and the best summer activity in Chicago!

You make it fun, we keep it safe. The past two years have streamlined our cleaning policy and we will continue to keep our jackets and equipment clean and fresh on a daily basis.

The team at Kayak Chicago is here to make your paddling experience with us, the most memorable adventure you have this summer!  Our crew and guides love the water and want to share their passion and teach you the skills and techniques to grow you as a paddler.  Whether it is your first time in a kayak, or you are a seasoned paddler, we are here for you to learn, grow and enjoy many more adventures to come!

As we ask how we can help our community, we discover that our best offering is to give you the opportunity to explore, get out of the house, stay active and participate in the best summer activity there is, paddling!

When you join us for a guided tour, a class or rent kayaks/paddleboards on your own, all the equipment is provided.  You just need to come prepared for fun, sun and an experience of a lifetime.

Line of Maggie Rogers fans stretches across Chicago River for in-person-only tickets

A line of singer Maggie Rogers' fans stretched across the Chicago River Friday morning because the only way to get tickets to her upcoming show is in-person.

Rogers is on "The Don't Forget Me Tour," which stops at Chicago's House of Blues Friday night.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Tickets went on sale at 10 a.m., and fans were lined up across the river to Dearborn Street and Wacker Drive, waiting to buy them, before that.

Rogers said in-person-only sales are the best way to "get tickets directly into the hands of fans."

Live Nation Entertainment could soon face a major lawsuit from the government. The justice department is expected to file an anti-trust lawsuit against the concert giant and parent company of Ticketmaster.

Hundreds took the company to court for its botched rollout for tickets to Taylor Swift 's Eras Tour, claiming fraud and price-fixing.

The House of Blues said fans were limited to two tickets per person for Rogers' show.

ABC News contributed to this report.