Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise

4.7 (747 reviews) 1 h 30 min Free cancellation

out of 5

747 reviews

4.7

Skyline Queen showcasing the Chicago Skyline! — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Mercury's Urban Adventure Cruise on Lake Michigan — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Our popular 90-minute daytime river and lake sightseeing tour delights family members of all ages with incredible views of Chicago's world-renowned buildings and stunning skyline. Lively, knowledgeable tour guides bring Chicago’s rich history to life with fun stories and interesting facts. Relax and unwind on a scenic tour of the city from the unique perspective of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Welcome aboard!

Day Cruises Private and Luxury City Tours Water Tours Seasonal Sightseeing Cruises Excellent Quality Best Conversion

At a glance

Duration: 1 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 115 people
People per booking: 1–10
Guide: English
Operated by: First Lady

Ages: Infants (0–3 years) · Children (4–12 years) · Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: All taxes, fees and handling charges
Included: Live commentary on board

Not included

Not included: Gratuities
Not included: Food and drinks

Itinerary

Chicago River

Passing by

The tour cruises along the main branch of the river. You’ll hear stories and insights about Chicago’s most iconic buildings and skyline landmarks.
Lake Michigan

Passing by

Cruise along Lake Michigan for stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
Navy Pier

Passing by

Features nearly 50 acres of parks, promenades, gardens, shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the iconic Centennial Wheel, which rises nearly 200 feet above Lake Michigan.
John Hancock Center

Passing by

See the 100-story, 1,128-foot skyscraper on the Magnificent Mile, from the lake.
Field Museum

Passing by

One of the largest natural history museums in the world!
Shedd Aquarium

Passing by

Shedd Aquarium was once the largest indoor aquarium in the world.
Adler Planetarium

Passing by

See this famous planetarium in the heart of Chicago's museum campus.
Soldier Field

Passing by

Soldier Field is a Chicago landmark and home to the Chicago Bears.
Clarence F. Buckingham Fountain

Passing by

Located in the center of Grant Park. Dedicated in 1927, it is one of the largest fountains in the world!
Wrigley Building

Passing by

The Wrigley Building was constructed as the corporate headquarters of the Wrigley Company, the famous maker of chewing gum.
Marina City

Passing by

See the twin 65-story towers along the Chicago River known for their distinctive circular design and mixed-use layout.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

On Michigan & Wacker Drive, at the northeast corner of the intersection. Upon arrival, please take the stairs down to Chicago's Riverwalk and visit the box office (right after/bottom of the stairs) for guidance to your cruise boarding dock. A departure board is available for your reference.

End point

On Michigan & Wacker Drive, at the northeast corner of the intersection. Upon arrival, please take the stairs down to Chicago's Riverwalk and visit the box office (right after/bottom of the stairs) for guidance to your cruise boarding dock. A departure board is available for your reference.

Using your ticket

Please proceed directly to the boat with your voucher. Any staff member will gladly direct you to the correct dock. Ticket is date and time specific. Please arrive 30 minutes before departure. We go rain or shine. The boat leaves right at the scheduled departure time.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Discounted parking available at 111 E. Wacker Drive. Please visit the dockside box office for parking ticket validation
Wheelchair accessibility varies by vessel. Please contact us in advance to confirm availability.

Options

Priority Boarding

Please arrive 30 minutes early: Priority Boarding Tickets include an exclusive early boarding period and the skip-the-queue during general boarding.
General Boarding