Chicago: 1.5-Hour Lake and River Architecture Cruise

Discover the architectural wonders of Chicago during a 1.5-hour cruise along the city’s scenic waterways. This excursion takes you on a journey through the iconic skyline, showcasing renowned landmarks like Marina City and Tribune Tower. With flexible indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a full-service bar, the cruise offers a comfortable and informative experience guided by knowledgeable experts. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this unique perspective on Chicago’s architecture is sure to leave you captivated and eager to learn more.

This experience made our article of Our 14 Favorite Chicago Cruises And Boat Tours.

Key Points

• Enjoy a 1.5-hour architectural tour along Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, showcasing iconic landmarks like Marina City and Merchandise Mart.
• Cruise pricing starts at $45 per person with flexible scheduling and a convenient meeting point in downtown Chicago.
• Choose between outdoor deck-top or indoor climate-controlled seating and indulge in a full-service cash bar and local snacks.
• Benefit from priority access, skip-the-line privileges, and expert local guides who provide informative commentary throughout the excursion.
• Explore the Chicago Lock linking Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, and return to the Brainlab Training Center after the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Cruise Overview and Pricing

The Chicago Architecture Cruise offers a 1.5-hour excursion along Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, providing visitors with a unique perspective on the city’s iconic architecture.

Discover Chicago’s iconic architecture through a 1.5-hour excursion along Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.

Priced from $45 per person, the cruise features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve your spot without payment.

Guests can skip the ticket line and enjoy priority access to the only architecture cruise on the lake and river.

The cruise’s flexible scheduling and convenient meeting point make it an accessible and hassle-free way to explore Chicago’s architectural wonders.

Itinerary and Main Sites

Starting at the Brainlab Training Center in Chicago, the Chicago Architecture Cruise takes passengers on a journey through the city’s most iconic architectural landmarks.

The cruise explores:

• Marina City Goldberg, the distinctive corncob-shaped towers

• Merchandise Mart, one of the largest commercial buildings in the world

• Tribune Tower, the neo-Gothic skyscraper with fragments of famous buildings embedded in its facade

• Aon Center, the third-tallest building in Chicago

• NBC Tower, the art deco-inspired office building

Along the way, passengers journey through the Chicago Lock, linking Lake Michigan with the Chicago River, before returning to the Brainlab Training Center.

Experience and Amenities

Passengers aboard the Chicago Architecture Cruise can choose between outdoor deck-top or indoor climate-controlled seating to experience the city’s renowned architecture. The cruise features a full-service cash bar offering local products, including beer and Garrett’s Popcorn. Passengers are welcome to bring their own non-alcoholic beverages and food. The vessels are equipped with restrooms and diaper changing tables, ensuring a comfortable journey. The expert local guides provide informative commentary, bringing the city’s architectural landmarks to life. The cruise offers a unique perspective on Chicago’s skyline and waterways, making it a must-do activity for visitors and locals alike.

| Amenity | Description |

| — | — |

| Seating Options | Outdoor deck-top or indoor climate-controlled |

| Bar Service | Full-service cash bar with local products, including beer and Garrett’s Popcorn |

| Outside Food/Drink | Passengers can bring non-alcoholic beverages and food |

| Onboard Facilities | Restrooms and diaper changing tables |

Customer Reviews and Ratings

• 4.7/5 overall rating from 1,633 reviews

• 4.8/5 rating for guides

• 4.8/5 rating for transportation

• 4.6/5 rating for value for money

• Glowing reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and informative experience

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Important Information

The meeting point for the Chicago Architecture Cruise is 400 N Michigan Avenue, near the Wrigley Building. Guests should be aware of the following important information:

| Allowed | Not Allowed |

| :—: | :—: |

| Assistance Dogs | Pets |

| Non-alcoholic Beverages | Weapons |

| Food | Sharp Objects |

| | Alcohol |

| | Drugs |

The tour duration may extend slightly in summer due to the busy Chicago lock. Itineraries are subject to change, so passengers should check availability for starting times prior to their visit.

Exploring the Architectural Marvels

As the cruise sets sail, passengers are treated to a captivating journey through Chicago’s renowned architectural marvels.

The guided tour highlights:

• The iconic Marina City Goldberg, with its striking towers that resemble corn cobs

• The Merchandise Mart, one of the largest commercial buildings in the world

• The Tribune Tower, a neo-Gothic skyscraper famous for its decorative buttresses

• The sleek, modern Aon Center, once the tallest building in Chicago

• The Aqua at Lakeshore East, a unique residential high-rise with undulating balconies

From historic landmarks to cutting-edge contemporary designs, this cruise offers a comprehensive exploration of Chicago’s architectural heritage.

Navigating the Chicago Lock

Midway through the cruise, the vessel navigates through the renowned Chicago Lock, which links Lake Michigan to the Chicago River.

This engineering marvel allows boats to smoothly transition between the two waterways, regardless of their water levels. As the vessel enters the lock, passengers witness the gates closing behind them, sealing them within.

The water level is then adjusted, raising or lowering the ship to match the desired waterway. Once aligned, the gates open, and the voyage continues along the historic Chicago River, offering unparalleled views of the city’s iconic architecture.

What to Expect on the Cruise

What can visitors expect during the Chicago Architecture Cruise? From the moment you step aboard, you’ll be in for an unforgettable experience:

• Expert guides who bring the city’s architectural marvels to life with their captivating narration

• A choice between outdoor deck-top or indoor climate-controlled seating for maximum comfort

• A full-service cash bar offering local beers, Garrett’s Popcorn, and other refreshments

• The opportunity to journey through the Chicago Lock, linking Lake Michigan with the Chicago River

• Vessels equipped with restrooms and diaper changing tables for your convenience

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?

The cruise offers accessible options for passengers in wheelchairs. The vessels are equipped with restrooms and diaper changing tables, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests. Guests can choose between indoor climate-controlled seating or outdoor deck-top viewing.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The cruise offers discounts for seniors (65+) and students with valid ID. Seniors receive a 10% discount, while students get 15% off the regular ticket price. These discounts can be applied at the time of booking.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages on Board?

Yes, passengers can bring their own non-alcoholic beverages and food on board. There’s a full-service cash bar as well, featuring local products like beer and Garrett’s Popcorn, for those who’d prefer onboard refreshments.

How Much Time Is Spent on the River Versus the Lake?

Passengers can expect to spend around 45 minutes on the Chicago River and 45 minutes on Lake Michigan during the cruise. The exact time spent in each location may vary slightly depending on conditions.

Do the Cruise Boats Have Indoor and Outdoor Seating Options?

The cruise boats offer both outdoor deck-top and indoor climate-controlled seating options, allowing passengers to choose their preferred setting and enjoy the views of Chicago’s architecture from various vantage points during the tour.

The Sum Up

The Chicago architecture cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s iconic landmarks from the waterways. With knowledgeable guides, indoor and outdoor seating, and a cash bar, this 1.5-hour excursion provides a comfortable and informative way to experience the architectural beauty of Chicago. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this cruise is a must-do activity that allows you to appreciate the city’s stunning skyline and historic structures.

You can check availability for your dates here: