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THE BEST Chicago Speed Boat Tours

Speed boats tours in chicago.

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• Buckingham Fountain
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• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Lake Michigan and Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Speedboat

2. Chicago Shoreline Adventure Boat Tour

3. Lake Michigan 30-Minute Speedboat Ride

4. Chicago Fireworks Adventure

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• Small Group River Boat Tour in Chicago
• 30 Minute Lake Michigan Speedboat Ride
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Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Rides Start!

• 600 East Grand Avenue Chicago 60611 United States
• (888) 345-3880
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Price — $16.95 – $28.95

Are you ready for an entertaining cruise experience along Chicago's scenic lakefront?

Our 30-Minute Lakefront Speedboat Tour is the best way to view Chicago from the lake, combining an exciting speedboat ride along the shoreline with informative and amusing descriptions of the world famous Chicago skyline!

As you depart Navy Pier, we'll tell you interesting facts about the Pier and Chicago's lakefront. Then we'll crank up the music and race south to Museum Campus where we'll pause to hear about Chicago's interesting lakefront landmarks, architecture and history. We'll then speed north past Navy Pier to cruise the Magnificent Mile, giving you unique views of the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain and Grant Park along the way. After a few quick facts, we'll dash back to our dog house on Navy Pier.

Unlike the our  Extreme Thrill Rides , you most likely won't get wet (though we can't make any guarantees in an open speedboat). Lakefront Tours are BYOB so bring along a cocktail and enjoy a cool cruise along Chicago's iconic waterfront. 

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Chicago Extreme Speedboat Ride, 30 Mins

The Ultimate Lake Michigan Adrenaline Rush!

With epic high speeds and full 360° donuts on the water, this jet-propelled thrill ride zooms off to start and thrashes down to a sudden halt. Experience high octane runs, sharp turns, and twists!

Description

Chicago extreme jet boat ride.

• 30-Minute Thrill Ride on Lake Michigan from Navy Pier
• This ride is not recommended for guests with conditions related to the neck or back or that may be pregnant.
• Exhilarating high speeds and full 180-360 degree spins, this jet-propelled ride blasts off to start and splashes down to stop!
• You may get wet on this ride on Seadog .

Book your Chicago Extreme Jet Boat Ride today!

Experience Details

Fitness and experience.

• Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
• You must be 48" tall to ride the Seadog Extreme at Chicago's Navy Pier.

What to Bring/Wear

• Valid ID is required and will be checked upon pickup for adult drink purchases. 

What is Supplied

• 30 Minute Cruise
• Seadog is BYOB. Bring your own drinks to enjoy on the water. (No glass containers, please).

More Information

• Cruising daily, weather permitting.

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THE BEST Chicago Speed Boat Tours

Speed boats tours in chicago.

• Sports Camps & Clinics
• Speed Boats Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Buckingham Fountain
• Adler Planetarium
• McCormick Place
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Lake Michigan and Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Speedboat

2. Chicago Shoreline Adventure Boat Tour

3. Lake Michigan 30-Minute Speedboat Ride

4. Chicago Fireworks Adventure

What travellers are saying.

• Small Group River Boat Tour in Chicago
• 30 Minute Lake Michigan Speedboat Ride
• Chicago Shoreline Adventure Boat Tour
• Lake Michigan and Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Speedboat
• Chicago Fireworks Adventure
• #1 Chicago (USA)-Tanzania |Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Hiking Operators| BURIGI CHATO SAFARIS LTD
• Chicago Motor Yacht Boat Rental
• Yachti Charters, Tender & Tours

• Chicago CityPASS Review
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• Chicago Attraction Passes

Go Visit Chicago Let's Discover the Windy City

Lake michigan speedboat ride.

Victor Boat Tours , Skyline Lake Tours , Tours Leave a comment

Lake Michigan Speedboat Ride - Experience the speed on Lake Michigan during summer season. One of the best boat tours in Chicago.

Lakefront Seadog Speedboat Ride

If you love speed then you will love this exhilarating Seadog speedboat tours ride along Chicago’s famous Lake Michigan. Feel the thrill of the 2000-horsepower engine as you cruise on your speedboat on the beautiful lake. Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to enjoy the fabulous views of Chicago from the Michigan lake. Overall, lakefront speedboat ride is one of the best tours in Chicago during summer season best tours in Chicago

I recommend you Speedboat ride in Lake Michigan on one of the hot summer days. You will be amazed how you get wet from head to toe in Seadog speedboat tour. It is different experience to view Chicago skyline from lake at high-speed. Seadog speedboat tour has been ranked high as one of the best cruises in Chicago with family. If you are travelling with your furry friend then check before booking your tour as you may be able to take your four leg friend for free on speedboat tour if there is enough space available.

Thrilling Seadog speedboat ride on the shores of Lake Michigan is accompanied with information and amazing descriptions of the world-famous Chicago skyline. As you get ready for the ride at Navy Pier, your captain will inform you about all kinds of interesting facts about the Pier and Lake Michigan. Speedboat tour starts at the Navy Pier and then pauses at Chicago’s Museum campus so that you can get an insight into Chicago’s interesting lakefront landmarks, architecture and history.

Then you will cruise past Navy Pier towards Magnificent Mile and thereby enjoy some of the most marvelous views of the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain and Grant Park along the way. Finally, the amazing speedboat races back to Navy Pier where the ride finally comes to an end.

Book Tour @ Viator

Seadog Speedboat Tour Schedule Details

Departure Point Cruise departs from Navy Pier, Chicago

Departure Time May 28 to October 2 11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm

Seadog Speedboat Tour Duration: 30 minutes

Return details: Returns to original departure point

Seadog Speedboat Tour – Additional Information

Coast Guard regulations require a photo ID for each guest to board All cruises are weather permitting Not recommended for participants with back problems Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions Not recommended for pregnant women Wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required Infant rates apply provided they do not occupy a seat

If lakefront speedboat ride doesn’t interest you then you can check the list of other boat tours in Chicago that fits your interest. You may also want to consider Chicago river and architecture cruise or Chicago skyline lake tour .

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CHICAGO BLUE WATERS TOURS & CHARTERS  ​

Speed boat rides, lakefront sightseeing tours, sunset tours, chicago playpen anchorage area, firework tours on the water, fishing charters on lake michigan..

"Wanted to take the wife out for the day. Heard about these guys from some friends at work Bob is a great captain. The lake seemed rough but he made us feel like it was a regular day out there. He is a true captain and a great guy lots of knowledge about the city and likes to explain everything. Felt like we were with a friend"

EXPLORE BEAUTIFUL LAKE MICHIGAN WITH US!

CHARTERS 

Speedboat rides, Lake Front Tours, Sunset Tours, Fireworks Tours Wednesday and Saturday. 

Baja 27’ Boss Speedboat. with state of the art sound system onboard, bring your iPod, Sirius Radio.

DESTINATIONS

Off the shores of Chicago, view the amazing skyline. Take a trilling speed boat ride. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the sunset. Off shore fishing.

MEET CAPTAIN BOB

TON MASTER CAPTAIN

Great Lakes Near Coastal  License, Able Seaman Special.

YEAR'S EXPERIENCE

Trust Captain Bob navigating the waters of Lake Michigan.

If you're looking for a thrilling speedboat ride, come aboard.

27' BAJA BOSS BUILT FOR SPEED

On a sunset tour, you may get lucky and spot a green flash as the sunsets. enjoy the summer fireworks displays off shore from navy pier on lake michigan. we look forward to hosting you on board soon.

Experience Chicago

We know the best fishing spots for King Salmon, Coho, Steel head, Lake Trout, Brown Trout. This Go Fast Speed Boat does fishing trips to Julian's Reef.

Seadog Cruises Chicago

Accommodating groups of up to 125 guests, Seadog Chicago is not your typical boat cruise company ! With daily architectural cruises , speedboat tours and thrill rides, Seadog offers exciting adventures that go far beyond the standard.  

Seadog’s unique brand of excursions was introduced at Chicago’s Navy Pier in 1996 and has thrilled more than a million people ever since! A few different tour options are available and they usually run several times a day during peak season and on weekends.

Your guide to Chicago lake and river cruises

One of the best ways to see Chicago is from the water. The city is home to two stunning waterfronts — the Chicago River and Lake Michigan — and each offers plenty of cruise options. Admire the skyline on a lakefront cruise, learn about the city’s iconic architecture on a Chicago River cruise, enjoy dinner and dancing aboard an all-glass vessel, sip cocktails on a tiki-themed boat, paddle your own kayak — the options are truly endless. Here’s your guide to Chicago lake and river cruises, boat tours, dinner cruises, and beyond.

See it all with Shoreline Sightseeing

One of Chicago’s classic cruise options, Shoreline Sightseeing covers all the bases. Their ultra-popular Architecture River Tour takes you on all three branches of the historic Chicago River takes you past dozens of landmark buildings.

They also offer skyline lake tours, plus specialty cruises and holiday events. Hop on a boat at Navy Pier or on Michigan Avenue.

Dine on the water with City Experiences

City Experiences dining cruises are the perfect way to create a memorable moment in Chicago. Choose from a river or lake dining cruise, complete with delicious cuisine, cocktails, and entertainment.

Their glass-enclosed river vessel is particularly stunning. It offers passengers panoramic views of the city’s most iconic buildings as you glide along the Chicago River. They also offer lakefront brunch and dinner cruise options that depart from Navy Pier.

Entertain the family with Wendella Boats

For three generations, Wendella Tours and Cruises has been cruising the Chicago waterways. With its variety of tour options, cruise times and lengths, and a heated, enclosed cabin, Wendella is a great choice for families looking for flexibility. Choose from lake & river architecture, sunset cruises, and more.

Admire architecture with Chicago’s First Lady

Around the world, Chicago is known for its outstanding architecture, and it’s easiest to admire the city’s legacy from the water. By partnering with the Chicago Architecture Center , Chicago’s First Lady offers the most comprehensive tour of the skyline — docents must train 100 hours before they can lead tours.

Speed across Lake Michigan on Seadog Boat Tours

Are you up for a thrill? Race across Lake Michigan on SeaDog Cruises, featuring 30 minutes of high speeds and exhilarating twists and turns. Come prepared to get splashed.

SeaDog also offers lakefront speedboat tours and a river/lake architecture tour, featuring views of Chicago’s iconic Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Museum Campus, and more.

Live it up on an Island Party Boat

Looking for a party? These tiki-themed boats are always a good time, offering drink packages, stellar views, and fun vibes. You can hop on an Island Party Boat at Monroe Harbor or the Chicago Riverwalk, which is also where you’ll find their beach-inspired bar Island Party Hut. Choose from a river cruise, lake cruise, tacky tour guide cruise, or even a dueling pianos cruise.

Go back in time with Chicago Fireboat Tours

Step onto a real, historic fireboat and get ready for a unique experience with Chicago Fireboat Tours . The river tours are given aboard a real piece of Chicago history — a retired fireboat that patrolled the Chicago from 1937 to 1981. Tours are led by expert docents and include historic and sunset options.

Splurge on a Free Spirit Yacht Cruises

Looking to splurge a little? These private yacht charters are the way to go. The spacious yachts comfortably fit up to 49 or 120 people, making them the perfect option for a large celebration or an intimate gathering. Premium bar and catering packages round out the experience.

Explore the Chicago River with Urban Kayaks

If you’re ready to ditch the captain and explore the water on your own, then it’s time to grab a paddle at Urban Kayaks . You’ll go through a brief training session before you hit the water, but you’re free to paddle the river or lake at your own pace. Or join in a guided tour to catch the sunset, fireworks, or historic highlights. Rentals are available at the Chicago Riverwalk or Monroe Harbor.

Rent an electric boat

Chicago Electric Boat Company offers fun and unique ways to get out on the water, including donut boats, retro boats, and even a bike boat that your group can pedal down the Chicago River. Rental locations include Marina City, the Chicago Riverwalk, and Rockwell on the River in Avondale.

See the skyline aboard Mercury Cruises

While Chicago’s summer fireworks are already fun to watch, it’s an entirely new experience when you’re on a 3D tour. Before the show, you’ll cruise around the lake and see some of Chicago’s famous landmarks.

Mercury Cruises also offer Urban Adventure, Canine Cruises, and Chicago by Night tours.

Check out Chinatown via Chicago Water Taxi

Hop on! The Chicago Water Taxi is a fun and cheap way to get around Chicago. The Water Taxi stops at Ogilvie Transportation Center, Chinatown, Goose Island, the Chicago Riverwalk, Michigan Avenue, and River North. Get a one-way ticket for $6 or an all-day pass for $10. Check their daily routes and schedules for more details. Cruises.

From this article

Tours & Attractions

Chicago architecture center.

Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline

Shoreline Sightseeing Company

Streeterville

Special Event Venues

Free spirit yacht cruises.

Urban Kayaks

River North

Wendella Tours & Cruises

The Magnificent Mile

Chicago’s First Lady Cruises

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10 boat tours to enjoy this summer in downtown Chicago

From sailboats to speedboats, there are many ways to enjoy lake michigan and the chicago river, by fiona hurless • published july 8, 2023 • updated on july 8, 2023 at 12:57 pm.

Not every city has a river and a lake, and Chicago boat tours are making sure residents and visitors take advantage of the city's majestic waterfront. From architecture tours to speed boats, here are some of the best Chicago boat tours to take this summer:

Chicago Architecture Cruise

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One of Chicago’s most popular boat tours is the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady. The 1.5-hour boat ride combines the city’s views and history into one ride with stories behind more than 50 buildings along the Chicago River.

Tickets start at $53.85 plus tax for daytime cruises and $58.57 for evening cruises. Prices are subject to change. Click here for ticket prices, departure times and more information.

Fire Boat T ours

What was originally designed as a City of Chicago Fireboat over 85 years ago is now a boat you can take use to enjoy a tour of the city. Fred A. Busse, also known as Engine 41, was named for the 39 th Mayor of Chicago and placed into service with the Chicago Fire Department in 1937. Today, the boat is a real piece of Chicago history that can take you around the city.

Fire Boat Tours offers a Sunset Brew Cruise, Historical & Architectural Cruise and Firework Cruises in addition to private charters and special events. More information can be found on the Fire Boat Tours website .

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Chicago river dinner cruise.

This 2.5-hour cocktail attire dinner cruise provides panoramic views of Chicago’s architecture from a glass-enclosed vessel on the river. The dinner cruise includes a plated dinner with alcoholic beverages available for purchase.

Tickets start at $145 with infants under three admitted free of charge. Tickets, menus and more information on the dinner cruise can be found here .

Seadog Speedboat Tours

Navy Pier’s Seadog Boat Tours offer city “extreme” thrill rides and lakefront speed boat tours. Thrill rides top out at 45 miles per hour on the lake with full 360-degree spins from the open speedboat, meaning riders are almost guaranteed to get a little wet.

The other speedboat tour offered is a Lakefront Speed bo a t Tour that includes descriptions of the Chicago skyline will a cruise along the Magnificent Mile and provides a better chance of staying dry. Seadog also offers two additional tours for groups and architecture along the river.

3D Fireworks Cruise

Wednesday and Saturday evenings in the summer not only mark the Navy Pier fireworks, but also the 3D Fireworks Cruise. This cruise allows you to take off from the Chicago Riverwalk and view Chicago’s skyline to narration before putting on 3D glasses and enjoying a musical soundtrack during the lakefront firework show.

Tickets start at $47 for adults and $22 for kids aged 5-15. Alcoholic beverages and snacks are available for purchase. More information can be found here .

Skyline Sail

Tall Ship Windy provides an opportunity for people of all ages to experience what it's like to set sail on a 148’ tall ship in a safe waterway. Additional opportunities like Pirates and Maritime Stories, Architecture and Skyline Sail, and Sunset and Skyline Sail are offered.

Tickets start at $39 for children under 13 years of age and $49 for participants aged 13+. More information on tickets and offerings can be found here .

Chicago Historical Cruise

The Chicago History Museum presents its Historical River Cruise named "CHICAGO ALONG THE RIVER" this summer. This 90-minute river cruise will discuss Chicago's history as viewers see close-up historical architecture, buildings and important places in Chicago. A booklet will also be provided for the duration of the cruise to allow for passengers to see Chicago's past while viewing the present.

Tickets start at $50 for adults, $48 for seniors and $30 for youths with free admission for children aged six and under. More information on the tour can be found on the Chicago Line Cruises website .

Island Party Boat

Monroe Harbor and the Chicago Riverwalk are both offering island-themed party boats this summer. Rentals can hold up to 12 guests with charters allowing anywhere from 13 to 120 guests. Ticketed cruises are also offered as well as food and beverage packages.

Polynesian, Tahitian and Key West-themed boats are offered for rental and charters. The Island Party Boat website has more information on specific offerings, restrictions and packages.

Urban Kayak Rentals

Different from the rest, this boat tour is one you can lead and paddle yourself. Urban Kayaks is a tour and rental location in the heart of downtown off the Chicago Riverwalk. Participants do not need previous experience and can enjoy Lake Michigan and the Chicago River with additional youth classes offered.

Booking and offers can be found here along with more information.

Electric Boat Rentals

The Chicago Electric Boat company gives boaters a chance to get behind the wheel and see the city from their own point of view. With over a dozen vessels, the Electric Boat company offers Cycleboats, retro boats and yachts.

More information on boat types, prices and restrictions can be found on the Chicago Electric Boat Company website .

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17 Amazing Things to Do in Chicago with Teens

C hicago is an amazing city to visit with a family, but it is a great place for teens. Teenagers will enjoy the variety of things to see and do from Broadway shows to high speed boat tours on Lake Michigan to shopping on the Magnificent Mile. No matter their interests, there’s sure to be something they all like. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Chicago with teens.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

17 Awesome Things to Do in Chicago for Teens

1. get your stem on at the museum of science and industry (msi) .

The Museum of Science and Industry was built in 1893 for Chicago’s World Fair, and today is home to an abundant collection of artifacts. There are thousands of interactive exhibits with everything from history to the human body.

Teens will love the World War II era submarine (U-505), a re-created coal mine, and a massive indoor tornado, but those are only a few of the highlights. It’s a fun place to spend the day in Chicago with teens.

2. See a show at one of Chicago’s world class theaters

Chicago has a bit of everything when it comes to theater. There are Broadway shows, musicals, plays, and comedies. Literally, there’s something appropriate for all ages year round.

To find the latest Broadway offerings head to Broadway in Chicago , but know that many teens will enjoy Blue Man Group and some might even enjoy Chicago Shakespeare at Navy Pier.

If your kid is a theater buff, be sure to check these out. 

3. Admire one of the best art collections in the world at The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago has been chosen time and time again as one of the premier art museums in the world. If you’re in Chicago with a teenager who loves art, this is the place to be. 

The collections span from ancient times to modern day, and includes works of artists from Monet to Diego Rivera and more. The architecture inside is just as stunning, so allow plenty of time to take it all in. 

NOTE: To save money when visiting The Art Institute and other popular attractions, consider investing in a CityPASS .

A CityPASS offers discounted admission on five of Chicago’s top attractions including The Art Institute, Shedd Aquarium, the Museum of Science and Industry, the Field Museum, Skydeck Chicago, and Adler Planetarium. You can buy your pass here .

4. Pose for obligatory selfies in Millennium Park

No family trip to Chicago would be complete without a visit to Millennium Park . The park is home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (aka The Chicago Bean), Crown Fountain, the Lurie Garden, and Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Millennium Park is one of the best places to take pictures in Chicago !

If you’re planning a teenage trip to Chicago, you’ll want to include these spots. All of these provide beautiful backdrops for Chicago selfies. And be sure to review these tips for how to take the best photos of yourself before snapping away!

Adjacent to the park is Maggie Daley Park, a 20-acre park with a playground, climbing wall, mini golf, tennis courts, and a skating ribbon. In Chicago, teens are never too old to explore the park!

Other plenty of places in Chicago to take selfies including Wrigley Field for baseball fans, Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park, and Navy Pier with restaurants, boats, and the Centennial Wheel ferris wheel.

5. Try an Escape Room

There are several Escape Rooms in downtown Chicago. Typically each challenge requires “teams” to solve a themed puzzle in a set amount of time (usually an hour).

Not only is this a fun way to spend time as a family, it’s exciting to race against the clock and see if you have what it takes to solve the clues. An escape game is a fun thing to do in Chicago with tweens and teens!

WANT TO KNOW WHERE TO STAY IN CHICAGO WITH TEENS? CLICK HERE

6. Head up high for the ultimate Chicago views at 360 CHICAGO or the Skydeck

There are two different ways to see the city from some of the tallest buildings in downtown. 360 CHICAGO is located 1000 feet above Michigan Avenue in the John Hancock building, some 94 floors above street level.

Thrill seekers will love TILT, the moving platform that literally “tilts” riders away from the building in a glass enclosed box for a view unlike any other.

Skydeck is located on the 103rd floor of the Willis tower, one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere. This Chicago observation deck is where visitors come for the “Ledge”, glass boxes that extend outside of the building providing 360 degree views of the city.

It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s definitely one of the fun things to do in Chicago with a teenager.

7. See how Chicago was built on an Architecture River Cruise

The Chicago Architecture Foundation leads a tour on the Chicago River that’s consistently voted one of the top tours in the city.

Along the way, experienced docents point out the architectural highlights of the city (there are many) and tell the history of how Chicago through the years. Another idea is to take a kayak tour on the Chicago River and see the buildings from your boat.

8. Go for a high-speed Lake Michigan cruise on the Seadog

Seadog Extreme Thrill Ride is one of the most exciting boats on Lake Michigan and teens will love it. The boat gets up to 45 mph as it zooms over the waves. Drivers twist and turn so riders are splashed and bounced around.

The ride is 30 minutes long, so it’s a fun and quick way to see the city from the water. It’s the ultimate way to see Chicago with teens.

9. Take a tour, any tour

Teens are the perfect age for tours, and Chicago has plenty of them. Segway tours are a different way to see the city and there are several tour companies and itineraries, so choose the one that fits your group.

Another fun way to see the city is via kayak with several options to row along the Chicago River and even Lake Michigan.

There’s an Underground Donut Tour that samples some of the city’s finest donuts and allows you to burn off calories walking between each shop. The Chicago Food tour hits all the city favorites including deep dish pizza and Chicago hot dogs.

Bobby’s Bike Hike has a variety of riding tours, but we like the ones that go off the beaten path like this Lakefront Neighborhoods Bike Tour . If you want to learn about the nefarious side of Chicago history, consider a Crime & Mob bus tour through the city’s infamous sites.

There’s even a guided Chicago Pedway Walking tour that shows off the indoor underground downtown architecture. This is a great one for a rainy day with teens in Chicago.

10. Walk, ride, skate the 606

The 606 is a former railroad track that has been converted to a multi-use trail through the Chicago neighborhoods of Wicker Park and Bucktown.

There are wall murals, sculptures, and small parks along the 2.7 mile trail and occasional events like block parties and star gazing. Grab a bite at one of the local spots like Mindy’s Hot Chocolate or Small Cheval and call it a day.

11. Explore Chicago’s ethnic neighborhoods

Chicago is a city of immigrants and as such there are enclaves in the city settled by people from around the world.

There’s Chinatown, Pilsen (Mexican), Andersonville (Swedish), Little Italy, and Bronzeville (African-American) to name a few. Each area offers a wealth of shopping, eating, and history that will entertain even the pickiest teens.

12. Head to the area’s best theme park

If your teens love thrill rides, head to Six Flags Great America in Gurnee , about an hour north of downtown Chicago. My teens love this park and their favorite rides include Goliath, X Flight, and Maxx Force. Anything that goes fast is their speed.

There’s also a water park at Six Flags, so if you want a full day, do the rides and then cool off at Hurricane Harbor. It has all the things you would expect, including a lazy river, water slides, and a surf rider experience.

13. Museum of Illusions, WNDR Museum, or Museum of Ice Cream

If your teen loves unique museums, head to one of these three spots. They all have something unique.

• Museum of Illusions – this immersive experience has over 80 visual and educational installations.
• WNDR Museum – a multi-sensory collection that blends art with technology.
• Museum of Ice Cream – ice cream themed installations with ice cream samples included!
• Sloomoo Institute – this museum is dedicated to slime, and visitors can make their own, walk through slime, and even have slime dumped on top to them!

14. Check out a local sports team

For the ultimate MLB experience, take in a baseball game at Wrigley Field, watching the Chicago Cubs. If you prefer the Chicago White Sox, head to Guaranteed Rate Field.

Of course there’s also Chicago Fire FC (soccer), Chicago Bulls (basketball), Chicago Bears (football), and Chicago Blackhawks (hockey). Find your teens favorite team and buy tickets for a game.

15. Spend time exploring Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is home to several attractions teens might enjoy. There’s the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Chicago History Museum, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, and the Lincoln Park Conservatory.

North Avenue Beach is also a fun spot during the summer and there are plenty of local restaurants serving delicious meals.

16. Lucky Strike Bowling and AMC Theatres next to Navy Pier

One of the best things to do in Navy Pier with teens is to ride the Centennial Wheel . This 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan from air conditioned capsules. The pier also has a wide variety of entertainment options, including live music and theater performances.

During the summer, there are twice-weekly fireworks shows (on Wednesdays and Saturdays) running from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Navy Pier has an array of dining options that are sure to satisfy any hungry teen’s cravings.

Once you’ve explore Navy Pier, check out nearby entertainment destinations like Pinstripes, AMC Theaters, and Lucky Strike Bowling.

17. Take a scenic helicopter tour of Chicago

For a super unique experience, consider taking a Chicago helicopter tour and seeing the city from above. It’s a beautiful perspective of the Windy City. This is sure to leave everyone with memories to last a lifetime.

Where to Eat in Chicago with Teens (and Tweens)

There are so many great places to eat with kids in Chicago , but what about teens? Here are some spots we think they will love: Big Star (think tacos and honky tonk), Quartino (quality Italian food in a casual setting), Summer House Santa Monica (it’s like a little bit of California in the heart of Chicago), Piece Pizza (because it is Chicago after all), and Portillo’s Hot Dogs.

If the whole family can’t agree on what they want, head to one of the Chicago food halls: Eataly, Time Out Market, or Revival Food Hall.

Looking for a quick snack? Don’t miss Garrett Popcorn shops and their Chicago mix popcorn. If your kid has a sweet tooth, don’t miss the ice cream and Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop, the Nutella cafe, or Sweet Mandy B’s bakery. Young people won’t be disappointed.

If you’re looking for other Chicago posts, don’t miss The Best Things to Do in Chicago with Kids , What Needs to Be on Your Chicago Bucket List and  Free Family Fun in Chicago .

Book Your Flights

You can find discounted fares using sites like Momondo or Skyscanner . If you want to keep an eye on discount fares, we suggest signing up for Going , a daily newsletter with flight sales around the world.

If you travel frequently, consider investing in a Priority Pass for airport lounge access. It’s nice to have a space where you can relax before your flight.

Book Your Accommodation

We regularly use Expedia.com and Hotels.com to find lodging when we travel. It’s a great way to compare vacation rentals, hotels, and resorts.

If your family knows they want to stay in a vacation rental, we recommend looking at VRBO and Plum Guide .

Book Your Transportation

For rental car agencies, try Rentalcars.com . We tend to use Hertz simply for the quality of service.

Book Your Tours and Travel Photos

We regularly used companies like Viator and GetYourGuide to book tours when we travel. Both have great communication and a large variety of activities that work for all ages.

If you’re visiting a city with multiple attractions, be sure to check out a discount pass, such as CityPASS or Go City . Both are worthwhile investments.

Context Travel is another option and they offer more educational-based activities. The former teacher in me loves their tours.

One of our favorite things to do annually is taking photos with Flytographer . They have photographers around the world and we’ve used them on four separate occasions. This is our favorite travel souvenir.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

With the state of travel these days, it’s important to have some type of travel insurance to cover any unforeseen accidents, illnesses, threats, or cancellations. We always travel with insurance and would recommend SquareMouth , Travelex , or Medjet as good options. And if you want to compare different insurance options, use Travel Insurance Master to find the best policy for your group.

The post 17 Amazing Things to Do in Chicago with Teens appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .

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SPRING BREAK AT THE PIER MARCH 25-30 | 11AM-6PM | FREE

Navy Pier is inviting all to spend Spring Break discovering one week of interactive events, demonstrations, performances, family-friendly activities, and artisan markets.

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City Cruises – Seadog River and Lake Architecture Tour

Enjoy Chicago’s iconic skyline with an exciting architecture cruise on the Chicago River.

Departing from Navy Pier, this 75-minute narrated cruise is the best way to get up-close views of Chicago’s unique architecture and famous landmarks. Seadog offers fun for the whole family (and the dog, too!) with live narration along the city’s shore.

Enjoy the speed of Seadog afterward during a short speedboat ride on the lake!

You’ll Enjoy:

• 75-minute cruise
• The only tour to take you from the lakefront, through the locks, and along the Chicago River all the way to the famous Willis Tower!
• The best views of Chicago’s famous buildings and unique architecture with entertaining narrations.
• This ride also includes a short speedboat ride portion on the lake!
• Seadog is BYOB – bring your own drinks to enjoy on the water (no glass containers)

Disclaimer:   This ride is not recommended for guests with conditions to the neck or back or that may be pregnant. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

*Cruising with a child under 2? Please add a $0.00 infant ticket to your cart. Infants cruise free, but are required to have a ticket so we can get an accurate head count.

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+1 (312) 815 3214

600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

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