Water activity

Chicago: 75-Minute Architecture Cruise by Speedboat

Activity provider: City Cruises
Water activity

Chicago: 75-Minute Architecture Cruise by Speedboat

Activity provider: City Cruises

From US$ 57.06 per person

See the most exceptional skyscrapers and architecture on a speedboat trip. Cruise Lake Michigan and the Chicago River to get up close to architectural gems such as Willis Tower and the Lyric Opera.

About this activity

Cancellation policy
This activity is non-refundable
Duration 75 minutes
Check availability to see starting times.
Skip the ticket line
Live tour guide
English
Wheelchair accessible

Experience

Highlights
  • Cruise along the lakefront of Lake Michigan and down the Chicago River
  • Get up close to architectural gems like the Tribune Tower and Willis Tower
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the stunning Chicago skyline
  • Pass through the historic Chicago Locks
  • Sail under the famous bridges of the Chicago River
Full description

Climb aboard a speedboat for a thrilling river and lake cruise around some of Chicago’s architectural gems. Gain insights into the city's most famous landmarks from your guide. Admire sights like Willis Tower, Tribune Tower, and Buckingham Fountain.

Depart from the former Navy training center of Navy Pier on the shores of Lake Michigan on a tour along the lakefront. Sail through the locks and along the Chicago River all the way to the second tallest building in the USA, Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower). Get up close to Chicago’s most iconic buildings and unique architecture, and enjoy amazing views and an entertaining narration as part of the exciting ride. Learn the fascinating history of structures like the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower and the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Cruise the lakefront of Lake Michigan to see monuments and attractions such as Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Chicago Harbor, and the Chicago Museum Campus.

Includes
  • Guide
  • 75-minute architecture cruise
  • Live narration
  • Restroom facilities onboard
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Tips (optional)
Not suitable for
  • Pregnant women
  • People with back problems

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

Meeting point

Meet at the Navy Pier located at 600 East Grand Avenue. Look for the yellow speedboat.

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Important information

Not allowed

  • Unaccompanied minors

Know before you go

  • Infants are free, however, make sure you select the free infant ticket option to ensure admittance on the cruise
  • The speedboat is an open-air vehicle and you may get wet
  • This tour runs weather permitting
  • All children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult
  • The speedboat is accessible for most wheelchairs; if you have an extra-large wheelchair, the marine crew will assist you in boarding the vehicle
  • Restrooms are available on the speedboat
  • Please double check all COVID-19 regulations and requirements ahead of the tour
Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 320 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.8/5
  • Transportation
    4.6/5
  • Service
    4.6/5
  • Organization
    4.5/5

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Star rating:

The tour was amazing. Tour guide Andy, Captain Swag, and First Mate Tom all performed admirably with humor and ease, and gave us an informative and thrilling tour, and even in the rainy cold, we were comfortable and entertained for the whole 75+ minutes! Can’t wait to ride again when family comes to visit!

April 1, 2023

I took the tour of a day that happened to be really foggy. According to the tour guide, Andy, it was very unusual. I was in Chicago for a few days whole my husband went to a tech conference there. Several people recommended I take an architectural boat tour. I'm so glad I did and honestly, this company was a great choice. The speedboat helped keep me from getting sick (just a little during the river lock transitions). Our guide Andy was very knowledgeable and quite funny. I would've loved for it to be longer. Also, my husband was surprised when I told him I considered going again later in the day when the fog cleared!

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April 1, 2023

The boat left 15 minutes late and took more than 75 minutes. It was good and very informative. There is about 20 min of waiting time, ten minutes entering the Chicago river and ten minutes exiting the Chicago river. The speed boat potion is not really that fast. Overall, it was good.

April 1, 2023

Product ID: 65241