Chicago: Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise

The Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise offers visitors a unique chance to explore Chicago’s iconic landmarks from the water. Departing from Navy Pier, this cruise provides an up-close look at the city’s stunning architecture and natural beauty. With prices starting at $32.50, it’s an affordable way to witness the Windy City’s breathtaking skyline. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the opportunity to discover hidden gems and uncover the city’s rich history through the guide’s captivating commentary. Those seeking to enjoy Chicago’s charm won’t want to miss this enchanting experience.

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

Key Points

• A 30-minute (Nov 1 – Apr 15) or 45-minute (warmer months) cruise showcasing iconic Chicago landmarks along Lake Michigan, starting at $32.50 per person.
• The cruise departs from Navy Pier and provides commentary from knowledgeable guides, with pre-recorded audio in English and Spanish.
• Passengers can enjoy photography opportunities of landmarks like the Willis Tower and Field Museum, with ample time for scenic views.
• The cruise navigates north and south on Lake Michigan, allowing for optimal skyline views during the experience.
• The cruise has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 704 reviews, with positive feedback highlighting the enjoyment and value of the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Chicago: Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise offers visitors a 30-minute (November 1 to April 15) or 45-minute (during warmer months) tour along the lakefront, with prices starting from $32.50 per person.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot with a "pay later" option.

The cruise departs from Navy Pier and offers stunning views of the Chicago skyline, including iconic landmarks like the Willis Tower and 360 Chicago.

Departing from Navy Pier, the cruise offers stunning views of the Chicago skyline, including the Willis Tower and 360 Chicago.

With skip-the-line boarding and live or pre-recorded commentary, this scenic cruise is a perfect way to experience the city’s iconic waterfront.

Cruise Experience

During the Chicago: Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise, guests can expect a scenic tour showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks. The 30-45 minute journey provides live commentary from a knowledgeable guide, along with pre-recorded audio in English or Spanish. Passengers can skip the ticket line with barcoded entry for fast boarding and enjoy photography opportunities of the Willis Tower, Field Museum, and 360 Chicago. The cruise navigates north and south on Lake Michigan, allowing visitors to take in the city’s stunning skyline from the water.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Tour Duration | 30 minutes (Nov-Apr), 45 minutes (warmer months) |

| Starting Location | Navy Pier |

| Cancellation Policy | Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance |

| Commentary | Live guide with pre-recorded audio in English and Spanish |

| Highlights | Willis Tower, Field Museum, 360 Chicago |

Itinerary Details

The Chicago: Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise navigates north and south on Lake Michigan, allowing passengers to take in the city’s iconic landmarks.

The main sites passed include the Willis Tower, Field Museum, and 360 Chicago.

The cruise departs from and returns to Navy Pier, with the meeting point being the boarding line on the south side of the pier, around 300 feet from the start.

The cruise departs from and returns to Navy Pier, with the boarding line on the south side around 300 feet from the start.

The cruise lasts 30 minutes during the colder months and 45 minutes during the warmer months, providing ample time to enjoy the scenic views and photography opportunities.

Customer Feedback

According to reviews, the Chicago: Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 704 reviews.

Customers have praised the experience, with the guide rated 4.6/5 and the transportation 4.7/5. Value for money was rated 4.4/5.

Notable reviews include:

• "Loved it both times, a staple event in summer." – Dominique, United States

• "Absolutely fantastic, worth every penny." – David, United Kingdom

• "Enjoyed the experience but confused about the duration during colder months." – Elizabeth, United States

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information

When taking the Chicago: Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Passengers should bring a camera to capture the stunning skyline views and dress appropriately for the weather. However, outside food and drinks, as well as electric wheelchairs, are not permitted on the cruise. Plus, there’s a $10 per ticket change fee for any date or time adjustments to the original booking.

| What to Bring | Restrictions |

|—————|————–|

| Camera | No food/drinks |

| Weather-appropriate clothing | No electric wheelchairs |

Photography Opportunities

With its iconic skyscrapers and picturesque lakefront, the Chicago skyline offers plenty of opportunities for stunning photography.

The cruise provides the perfect vantage point to capture:

• The stunning silhouette of the Willis Tower

• Panoramic views of the city’s gleaming high-rises

• Iconic landmarks like the Field Museum and 360 Chicago

• Reflections of the skyline on the calm waters of Lake Michigan

• Breathtaking sunsets over the city’s picturesque landscape

Whether you’re a professional photographer or an enthusiastic amateur, the Chicago Skyline Cruise delivers an unparalleled opportunity to immortalize the city’s architectural beauty.

Duration and Seasonality

The cruise’s duration varies depending on the season, with a shorter 30-minute route during the colder months of November 1 to April 15 and a longer 45-minute route during the warmer months.

This seasonal adjustment ensures passengers can enjoy the scenic views of the Chicago skyline and iconic landmarks in comfort, regardless of the weather.

The cruise runs year-round, providing a unique opportunity to experience the city’s stunning lakefront panorama from the water.

Whether you visit in the winter or summer, the cruise offers a memorable way to witness Chicago’s architectural wonders and natural beauty.

Getting to Navy Pier

Navy Pier is conveniently located along Chicago’s scenic lakefront, making it easily accessible for visitors. To get there:

• By public transit: Take the CTA’s Red, Purple, or Brown Line trains and exit at the Grand or Illinois station. Then walk about 10 minutes to the pier.

• By taxi or rideshare: Numerous options are available with convenient drop-off points near the pier entrances.

• By car: Parking is available at the Navy Pier Parking Garage, with rates starting at $15 per vehicle.

• On foot: The pier is a popular destination for pedestrians, with scenic routes along the lakefront.

• By water taxi: Catch a ride on the Chicago Water Taxi, with stops at various locations around the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink on the Cruise?

According to the information provided, passengers are not allowed to bring their own food or drinks on the cruise. The cruise has restrictions in place that prohibit outside food and beverages.

Do You Offer Discounts for Seniors or Children?

Yes, the cruise offers discounts for seniors (65+) and children (ages 3-12). Seniors receive a 10% discount, while children’s tickets are priced at $20 per person. Discounts are applied at the time of booking.

How Wheelchair-Accessible Is the Boat and Boarding Process?

The boat is wheelchair-accessible, but electric wheelchairs aren’t allowed. The boarding process has ramps and staff assist passengers as needed. Guests with mobility issues should inform the operator in advance to ensure a smooth experience.

What Happens if the Weather Is Bad on the Day of My Cruise?

If the weather is bad on the day of the cruise, it may be canceled or postponed. Customers can get a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours in advance due to weather concerns.

Is There a Restroom Available on the Boat During the Cruise?

Yes, there are restrooms available on the boat during the cruise. Passengers can use the onboard restrooms as needed throughout the duration of the tour.

The Sum Up

The Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise offers a unique way to experience Chicago’s stunning skyline. With prices starting at $32.50, it’s an affordable and memorable activity for visitors. The cruise departs from Navy Pier and showcases iconic landmarks like the Willis Tower, providing live commentary and ample photography opportunities. Whether you choose the 30-minute or 45-minute tour, it’s a great way to explore the Windy City from the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: