Chicago Architecture River Cruise: 75-Minute Skyline & Riverwalk Sightseeing Tour
Glide the Chicago River for 75 minutes of live commentary and up-close views of over 40 landmarks—from the Hancock to the Old Post Office. This guided cruise reveals the engineering, style, and civic history that built the city’s skyline.
The Experience
Before You Go
Confirm your dock
There are two departure points (Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue). Double-check your ticket and arrive at the correct dock 15 minutes early.
Dress in layers
Wind off the river can be chilly even on warm days—bring a light jacket or windbreaker.
Best photo spots
Move around the boat for different angles—under bridges for dramatic framing and the bow for sweeping skyline shots.
Accessibility and pets
Cruise is dog-friendly; wheelchair access available from Navy Pier dock only—contact operator if you need assistance.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The Rookery Building’s light-filled lobby (look for Frank Lloyd Wright renovations)
- •LaSalle Street’s canyon of banks—best seen from the water for dramatic vertical lines
Wildlife
- •Great blue heron
- •Canada goose
Conservation Note
Water quality has improved thanks to river cleanup and public stewardship; minimize disturbance by avoiding litter and following crew guidance about wildlife.
The Chicago River was famously reversed in the early 1900s to protect Lake Michigan’s drinking water; that engineering project reshaped industry and the city’s waterfront development.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bowside of the boat for sweeping skyline shots
- • Under the DuSable (Michigan Ave) Bridge for framed perspectives
- • Approach to Navy Pier for full-skyline compositions
What to Bring
Windbreaker or light jacketEssential
Blocks river breeze and keeps you comfortable during exposed sections of the cruise
Sunglasses & sunscreenEssential
Reflective water and open decks increase sun exposure on summer departures
Small binoculars
Helpful for spotting architectural details and inscriptions on masonry from the water
Compact camera or smartphone with wide lensEssential
Captures wide skyline compositions and close-up facade details from the deck
Common Questions
How long is the cruise?
Standard cruises are 75 minutes; from November 11 through April tours run 60 minutes.
Where do cruises depart?
Options depart from either Navy Pier (124 N Streeter Drive) or the Michigan Avenue docks (401 N Michigan Ave). Confirm your chosen departure on the ticket.
Are restrooms available on board?
Yes—boats have onboard restrooms and most vessels also offer a full bar.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchair access is available from the Navy Pier dock; other docks may not be fully accessible.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes—cruises are dog-friendly, but pets must be supervised and follow crew instructions.
Will the tour run in bad weather?
Cruises may be cancelled for severe weather; check operator notices and the cancellation policy for refunds if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1–1.25 hours (60–75 minutes)
Location
Chicago, Illinois
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal mobility required to board the vessel
Ready to Explore Chicago?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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