Chicago

15 Best Lake Michigan & River Cruises

The lake cruises: skyline sails off Navy Pier, Seadog speedboat runs and fireworks sailings on summer nights. The lake side of the skyline is the view locals send their relatives.

1.Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Discover Chicago’s stunning skyline and iconic architecture on this 1 hour 15-minute river cruise, led by knowledgeable guides. Perfect for first-timers and architecture lovers.

Most Popular★ 5.0

“Must do in Chicago! Tour operators are funny and knowledgeable. Recommend lining up early so you have your pick of the spots. We chose front row and it felt like you were on a private tour.”

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3.Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady

Experience Chicago’s stunning architecture from the river with a 1.5-hour guided cruise aboard First Lady, offering expert insights and iconic city views.

★ 5.0

“Had an amazing time on this in depth tour! Guide was upbeat and so knowledgeable, and kept the tour lively the whole time. Nice variety of architecture and local history. Loved the context part showing how each building is in conversation with those around it.…”

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4.Chicago: Architecture River Cruise Skip-the-Ticket Line

Experience Chicago's stunning architecture on a 75-minute river cruise with live narration, skip-the-line tickets, and beautiful city views.

★ 4.8

“Jeremy was a wonderfully engaging guide pointing out historical buildings, architectural styles and more as we rode the Voyageur. The boat was comfortable and not too crowded. And the staff was courteous and helpful. Great way to see the city and learn of its history…”

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8.Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in Chicago

Experience Chicago’s stunning skyline at sunset on a 90-minute boat cruise, with scenic views, expert guides, and onboard snacks. Perfect for a memorable evening.

★ 4.5

“Love the city history and architecture, the staff were professional and friendly. The cityscape was so beautiful.”

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9.Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago

Discover Chicago’s skyline from Lake Michigan with a 45-minute sightseeing cruise, offering stunning views, informative commentary, and flexible options.

★ 4.5

“It was a perfect experience with a great atmosphere. Highly recommended. Affordable. Great views. Best 45 min golden hour sunset cruise!”

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10.Chicago Architectural River Cruise

Discover Chicago’s stunning architecture on a 1.5-hour river cruise with expert guides, scenic views, and fascinating stories that bring the city’s skyline to life.

★ 4.5

“Speaker was great. She was amazing. Knew the city very well. Interesting facts and side note. Worth a good tip.”

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11.Chicago by Night River and Lake Cruise

Discover Chicago’s stunning night skyline, historic landmarks, and Lake Michigan on this 1.5-hour river and lake cruise with lively guides and breathtaking views.

★ 4.6

“Hailey was an amazing guide and was very knowledgeable about the architecture and city, with a good amount of humor mixed in. The views were amazing and an experience I haven’t had all of the times I’ve been to Chicago.”

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12.Chicago: Shoreline Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise

Experience Chicago from Lake Michigan on this 45-minute cruise featuring iconic skyline views, engaging commentary, and excellent value for $38.

★ 4.6

“Great tour that gives a different perspective on the Chicago Skyline. The recorded narration was clear and interesting. Boarding was organized and efficient. I would highly recommend this tour!”

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More Lake Michigan & River Cruises

4.3Chicago: Fireworks Cruise with Lake or River Viewing Options45 minutes - 2 hours$32 4.5Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise$45.00 4.7Chicago: Architecture Boat Tour with Drinks1.5 hours$42 4.7Chicago: Architecture Center Cruise on Chicago’s First Lady1.5 hours$57 4.0Chicago Signature Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan2 hours (approx.)$66.97 4.3City Cruises Chicago: Premier Lunch or Dinner Cruise2 - 3 hours$88 4.0Lake Michigan 30-Minute Speedboat Ride30 minutes (approx.)$42.78 4.7Chicago: Narrated Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise$45 4.5City Cruises Chicago: 75-min Speedboat Architecture Cruise1.3 hours$61 4.5Chicago Seadog River & Lake Architectural Tour1 hour 15 minutes (approx.)$61.82 5.0Historical and Architectural Chicago Fireboat River/Lake Cruise2 hours (approx.)$47.00 4.5Chicago By Night River & Lake Cruise$45.00 4.0City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Lunch or Dinner Cruise2 hours$66 4.5Best of Chicago Small-Group Tour with Architecture River Cruise4 hours (approx.)$254.00 4.8Chicago: City Minibus Tour with Optional Architecture Cruise2 - 4 hours$48 4.7City Cruises Chicago: Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner River Cruise2 hours - 150 minutes$84 5.0Small-Group Sightseeing Boat Tour in Chicago1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)$89.00 4.7Chicago River: 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Riverboat Tour1.5 hours$57 4.0City Cruises Chicago: Fireworks Signature Dinner Cruise2 to 3 hours (approx.)$116.17 4.0Chicago Creepy Cruise$45.00 3.0City Cruises: Chicago Fireworks Premier Dinner Cruise2 to 3 hours (approx.)$142.14 4.1Chicago: Historic Gangsters & Twilight Tales Night Cruise$45 4.1City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Fireworks Dinner Cruise3 hours$116 4.5Chicago Premier Plus Brunch Cruise on the Chicago River2 hours (approx.)$84.74