The 6 Boat Tours in Chicago That Earn Their Price

1.Chicago Architecture River Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 15,756 reviews · 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $39Our pick

See Chicago’s skyline from the river, hear lively architecture stories, and visit multiple branches on this practical one-hour cruise.

“When booked they said there was a below deck to stay warm from the extreme cold in Chicago. Only flaps cover window below. It was freezing from the temperature and wind. They sold merch to warm peeps. For example flimsy blanket and gloves. Which looked like they were from the dollar store. The tour guide spoke so fast we lost interest after 12-15 minutes because we couldn’t understand him. We spent first 20 minutes asking each other what he said. Sounded like reading from a script. No fun facts no humor, no nuggets we could tell people about. Finally we gave up and turned on football game from our device.…”

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2.Chicago River: 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 8,046 reviews · 1h 30m · from $44

Chicago’s 90-minute river cruise pairs skyline views with lively architecture stories, open-air seating, climate control, and a cash bar.

“Unreal tour guide, super knowledgeable. Stunning views, great day out.”

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3.Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 5,536 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $57

See Chicago’s skyline from the river on a 90-minute First Lady cruise with Chicago Architecture Center docents, indoor seating, and a full bar.

“Evening was the perfect time to view the architecture along the river and Amy was a great tour guide.”

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4.Architecture River Cruise Skip-the-Ticket Line

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 4,325 reviews · 1 hour - 90 minutes · from $39

Cruise all three branches of the Chicago River, hear lively architecture stories, and see landmarks from a comfortable boat for $39.

“The tour leader was very knowledgeable about the history of Chicago from a waterfront viewpoint. He had the audience entertained as the we caught the beautiful sunset. This tour is a MUST.”

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5.45-Minute Family-Friendly Architecture River Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 2,304 reviews · 45 min · from $28Best value

See Chicago’s skyline from the river on a 45-minute family cruise with live architecture commentary, indoor seating, and sunset views.

“Well managed, knowledgeable and witty guide, comfortable ride, value for money”

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6.1.5-Hour Lake and River Architecture Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 2,050 reviews · 1h 30m · from $44

See Chicago’s landmark buildings from the river and lake on a lively 90-minute cruise with expert guides, open-air decks, and skyline views.

“This was an outstanding tour and I learned a lot about Chicago, a city I grew up by. The architecture as fascinating. I definitely recommend taking the combined river/lake tour. I do recommend that literature about the tour provide recommendations for parking.”

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