Chicago By Night River & Lake Cruise: Skyline Lights & Buckingham Fountain
Board at Michigan & Wacker for a 90-minute evening cruise that turns Chicago’s skyline into a moving light show—complete with live commentary and Buckingham Fountain’s spectacular display. Ideal for families and first-time visitors who want the city visually decoded.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early
Check in at the Riverwalk box office and plan to be there 30 minutes before departure to secure boarding and seating.
Dress for Wind
Even on warm nights, the lake breeze chills; bring a windbreaker or light jacket for the open deck.
Bring a Small Tripod or Stabilizer
Night shots of the skyline and fountain benefit from steady support; use a compact tripod or image-stabilized lenses.
Mind the Locks
Boats may leave a few minutes early depending on lock schedules—be punctual to avoid missing departure.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stand near the lower Riverwalk close to the DuSable Bridge for reflection shots of historic facades
- •Watch the boat glide past the museum campus for close views of Adler Planetarium and the Field Museum lit at night
Wildlife
- •Ring-billed gulls that patrol the lakefront
- •Occasional great blue herons along quieter river edges
Conservation Note
Stick to single-use plastic reduction and dispose of trash at the dock; the city and volunteer groups regularly work to clean the river and protect Lake Michigan water quality.
The course you traverse runs through the engineered Chicago River system; reversing the river’s flow in the early 1900s allowed Chicago to protect its drinking water and become a shipping powerhouse.
Photographer's Notes
- • Starboard side leaving the Michigan Ave bridges for skyline silhouettes
- • Lake-facing stretch near the Museum Campus for wide views including Buckingham Fountain
What to Bring
Windbreaker or light jacketEssential
Blocks the lake breeze on the open deck and keeps you comfortable as temperatures drop.
Compact tripod or camera stabilizer
Helps capture long-exposure shots of the skyline and Buckingham Fountain at night.
Headlamp or phone flashlight
Useful for walking the Riverwalk steps and finding your boarding area after dusk.
Small backpack or toteEssential
Keeps layers, tickets, and valuables secure while you enjoy the cruise.
Common Questions
Where do I board the cruise?
Boarding is at Michigan & Wacker Drive on the Riverwalk; follow the stairs down and check in at the box office located at the base of the stairs.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise is 90 minutes long and includes segments on the Chicago River and along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Is the cruise suitable for children or strollers?
Yes—stroller access is available and the cruise is family-friendly; children must be accompanied by an adult.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours operate rain or shine but the operator may cancel for severe conditions; no refunds are available for cancellations, so check the policy when booking.
Are food and drinks available on board?
Offerings vary by vessel—many night cruises have a bar or snacks; check the tour details or bring non-alcoholic refreshments if permitted.
Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility varies; the listing indicates stroller access and easy physical requirements—contact the operator before booking to confirm full wheelchair access.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1.5 hours
Location
Chicago, Illinois
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mainly seated with minimal walking to and from the dock
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