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CHICAGO'S ORIGINAL ARCHITECTURE TOUR®

BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE

Choose your adventure, chicago river architecture tour (90 minutes).

Take in the world-renowned architecture as our expert guides tell the story of 130 years of architectural innovation.

shoreline architecture cruise chicago

We like our drinks stiff, not our tour guides.

Chicago River Architecture Tour (45 minutes)

This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length architecture tours.

shoreline architecture cruise chicago

The Ultimate Chicago experience.

We're In the People Business

This was one tour that I can honestly say was worth doing & probably should be a must do/ see on your visit to Chicago.

Ginette, 2023

We were recommended the architecture boat tour by a few locals and it was absolutely amazing!! Beautiful views from anywhere you sat and an extremely knowledgeable and funny tour guide led the trip. Great value for money and so so worth it. Thank you!!

Jessica W, 2024

The skyline was beautiful and the buildings all shined differently. Pictures come out amazing!

Christina, 2023

SEE FOR YOURSELF

Book your experience now.

shoreline architecture cruise chicago

shoreline architecture cruise chicago

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Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady

Architecture Adventure Awaits!

Explore Chicago’s iconic architecture aboard TripAdvisor’s #1 rated boat tour of the city. The only Chicago River cruise partnered with the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC), Chicago’s First Lady Cruises offers visitors the city’s most engaging 90-minute architectural tour experience.

Highly trained and enthusiastic volunteer CAC docents (guides) provide visitors with a compelling and detailed narrative of Chicago's numerous architectural styles and the stories of the legendary figures who designed and built our city.

Enjoy cruising in comfort and style aboard Chicago’s Finest Fleet, featuring unobstructed sightlines and guaranteed seating on our open-air upper decks and full-service cocktail and snack bars in our climate-controlled interior salons. You’ll see why visitors and locals alike consistently name our tour the best way to see Chicago.

Experience More!

Complete your architecture experience with a visit to the Chicago Architecture Center, just $5 with a General Boarding Ticket and valid for up to 7 days after your cruise.

Or, treat yourself to a Priority Boarding Ticket, which includes exclusive early boarding period, skip-the-queue during general boarding, and CAC admission.

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General Boarding Tickets Start At

Ticket details.

  • Priority Boarding tickets start at $69 and include exclusive early boarding period, skip-the-queue during general boarding, and Chicago Architecture Center admission.
  • General Boarding tickets start at $54. Include a visit to the Chicago Architecture Center for just $5 more!
  • Tickets can be purchased online , in-person at our dock during regular season hours or at the Chicago Architecture Center.
  • Avoid the box office by choosing "eTickets" or "Print at Home" as your delivery method.
  • Tour departures frequently sell out. Reserve your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
  • Select "Will Call" to pick up your tickets at our dockside ticket office; bring your confirmation number.
  • Each person must have a ticket including infants and children.
  • Prices are subject to change.

Full Schedule

Early Spring March 17 - April 25

  • Mon 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
  • Tues 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
  • Wed 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
  • Thu 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
  • Fri 10:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
  • Sun 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm

Late Spring April 26 - May 23

  • Mon 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm
  • Tues 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
  • Wed 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
  • Thu 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm
  • Fri 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm
  • Sun 9:30 am 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:00 pm

Summer May 24 - October 14

  • Mon 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:30 pm
  • Tues 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm
  • Wed 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 6:00 pm
  • Thu 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:30 pm
  • Fri 9:30 am 10:00 am 10:30 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 12:30 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 2:30 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:30 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:30 pm
  • Sun 9:30 am 10:00 am 10:30 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 12:30 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 2:30 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:30 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:30 pm

Early Fall October 15 - November 3

  • Mon 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
  • Thu 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
  • Fri 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:30 pm
  • Sun 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm 6:00 pm

Late Fall November 4 - November 24

  • Fri 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
  • Sun 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm

2024 cruising season begins March 17th and extends through November 24th. Tickets on sale now!

We are located at Michigan Ave and Wacker Drive, Chicago IL

Tour Details & Tips

  • Tour Duration 90 minutes
  • Arrival Time Make sure your entire party arrives 30 minutes prior to departure.
  • Priority Boarding Tickets  include exclusive early boarding period, skip-the-queue during general boarding, and Chicago Architecture Center admission.
  • General Boarding Tickets begin boarding approximately 15 minutes before departure.
  • Seating Open outdoor seating is guaranteed for all guests. The number on your ticket does not represent a seat number.
  • Tour Route The tour travels all three branches of the Chicago River. View tour route map.  Route subject to change without notice.
  • Cruises depart rain or shine. Tickets may not be refunded or exchanged if you miss your boat - allow extra time.
  • What to Bring Your sunglasses, cap or visor, as the sun can interfere with your view of the buildings.
  • Parking Discounted parking available at 111 E. Wacker Drive with proper validation from ticket office. Visit our  Location page  for more.
  • Did you know? A portion of your ticket fee supports the educational work of the Chicago Architecture Center!
  • Food & Drink  A full-service bar and snack bar are available on every vessel
  • Outdoor Seating Each vessel features an open-air upper deck which allows guests to safely enjoy the outdoors
  • Restrooms  Well-appointed restrooms are available on each vessel
  • Free Stroller Storage  Strollers will be folded and stored in the interior salon during the cruise. Children must be removed from strollers before boarding.
  • Limited Mobility Services Available  See our Location page for river-level drop-off directions for guests with accessibility needs. Our staff is also available to provide early boarding services for those with limited mobility.

shoreline architecture cruise chicago

“I learned so much and left with a vastly greater appreciation of Chicago's stunning skyline.” - Jennifer S. TripAdvisor, IL

Photo Gallery

shoreline architecture cruise chicago

  • What sets your tours apart from the others?

We are the only tour that partners with the Chicago Architecture Center to offer the official Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady. All of our tours are given by experienced, volunteer docents who receive hundreds of hours of training from the Chicago Architecture Center before guiding the river cruise tour.

  • How long is the tour?
  • Each tour is 90 minutes.
  • Is there food/drink available onboard?

Yes. All boats have a full service bar and small snacks onboard. Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted.

  • Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

Advance reservations are recommended as many tours sell out during the busy summer season and on weekends.

  • Is there assigned seating?

All seating is general admission. There is enough seating for all guests to sit on our open air upper decks safely and with proper distancing measures in place. While seat numbers are printed on the tickets, you can ignore these as they are not valid.

  • Are tours offered in any languages other than English?

We are happy to offer free foreign language audio guides in Spanish, French, Japanese and Korean. Scan the QR code onboard for instructions. Mobile data for app download required.

  • Do I have to print my tickets?
  • You do not have to print your tickets. You can show your mobile ticket to our dock attendant with your smartphone, or you can have your tickets printed at the dockside will call window (be sure to bring a photo ID and your confirmation number).
  • Does the boat go on the lake?

No, the tour is only on the Chicago River. If you’d like to take a lake tour, please check out our sister cruise line Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline .

  • Are there restrooms onboard?

Yes, all the boats have restrooms onboard. There are also wheelchair accessible bathrooms on the Classic Lady, Leading Lady, and Emerald Lady. Please note: the restrooms close 15 minutes before the end of the tour for safety reasons.

  • Can I bring luggage onboard?
  • Due to security reasons, luggage cannot be brought onboard. There is not an area to store your luggage dockside either. We recommend having your hotel hold your luggage.
  • Can I bring a stroller onboard?
  • Yes, you can bring a stroller onboard. Children must be removed from strollers before boarding. Strollers will be folded and stored in the salon during the cruise.
  • Are there changing tables onboard?

The Classic Lady, Leading Lady, and Emerald Lady have changing tables onboard in the family restroom. The Little Lady, Fair Lady, and First Lady do not have changing tables onboard.

  • Are dogs allowed onboard?

Only service dogs are allowed onboard. Our sister company, Mercury , offers the popular Canine Cruise on summer weekends.

  • How can I get to your dock without using stairs?

There are two ways to reach our dock along Chicago’s Riverwalk without using stairs: 1. On foot via the ramp located on Wacker Drive at State Street. 2. Vehicle drop-off area on Lower Wacker Drive. Visit our location page for more information.

  • Can I trade my tickets for a different date/time?
  • No, all tickets are nonrefundable and nonexchangeable.
  • Do you cruise rain or shine?
  • Yes, we cruise rain or shine. All the boats have two levels – the top deck is open-air, and the lower deck is an enclosed, climate-controlled salon. Each salon is surrounded by large windows so you can stay comfortable while still taking in the magnificent views. Tour commentary is broadcast over speakers on both levels.
  • Are the boats wheelchair accessible?

Chicago's Leading Lady, Chicago’s Classic Lady, and Chicago's Emerald Lady are wheelchair-accessible. These vessels cruise at the 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 5pm departure times. When boarding, guests cross two ramps and enter through a 36-inch-wide opening (doorway). Crew members will assist in guiding the wheelchair across the gangway. Please present yourself to our staff if you prefer to board before general boarding starts. Guests unable to climb stairs to the upper deck may choose to sit in the open-air bow or the enclosed, climate-controlled salon with large windows. For safety reasons, motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated. Guests who are able to transfer may use the company's manual wheelchair based on availability. Visit our accessibility page for more information.

Go Chicago

Shoreline Sightseeing: Architecture River Tour

Shoreline Sightseeing has been leading guided tours on Lake Michigan and along the Chicago River for approximately 80 years. For the past 20 years, they’ve been running their very popular Architecture River tour for local Chicago residents and visitors from all over the world alike. Throughout this well-regarded excursion you’ll have terrific views of a number of Chicago’s most significant buildings and architectural treasures, all while enjoying a pleasant boat ride that takes you down all three branches of the Chicago River.

Money Saving Tip ! This tour is included in the Go Chicago Card as well as the Chicago Explorer Pass . Both Chicago Tourist Passes can save you a lot of money if you are going to multiple Chicago attractions .

shoreline architecture cruise chicago

Architecture River Tour Details

One immediate perk of the Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River tour is that it offers you with the flexibility of two different boarding options. You can join the Architecture River tour from Shoreline Sightseeing’s docks at either Navy Pier or near Michigan Avenue—it’s your choice of whatever’s more convenient for you. From there, you’ll be hosted by your professionally trained guide, who’ll provide you an informative and entertaining narration highlighting some 40 different Chicago landmarks. In all, the Architecture River tour lasts approximately 75 minutes. From their Michigan Avenue location, tours typically depart every 45 to 60 minutes between the hours of 10:00am and 5:00pm—though availability does vary depending on time of the year and day of the week. Tours depart less frequently from Navy Pier, but there are still routinely multiple outings daily—just make sure to check their website in advance of your visit for more details. Tickets usually run in the neighborhood of $40 for adults and $20 for children between the ages of 3 and 12. Kids 2 and under can join the tour for free. Shoreline Sightseeing also operates a Spanish-language version of the Architecture River tour daily from their Michigan Avenue location.

Architecture River Tour Major Highlights

Tribune Tower: Situated just steps from the Chicago River, right along bustling Michigan Avenue, the Tribune Tower is a true Chicago landmark. This unmistakable neo-Gothic building was built in 1925 to house the offices of the Chicago Tribune , and it remains a beautiful symbol of the Windy City to this day.

Wrigley Building: Located just across the street from Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building is regarded as one of the city’s great architectural gems. Its iconic clock tower has loomed over Michigan Avenue and the Chicago River for almost a century, and is a must-see structure for any visitors to downtown Chicago.

Marina City: Though the famed “corncob towers” of Marina City are a perennial favorite of sightseers, the Marina City complex itself takes up nearly an entire city block of legendary State Street. Its home to a remarkable number of amenities, including (of course) a marina, multiple restaurants, a concert venue, and a bowling alley.

Merchandise Mart: Checking in at a whopping 4 million square feet in size, this colossal structure found right on the north side of the Chicago River was the single largest building in the entire world when it first opened in 1930. Merchandise Mart is such a massive facility that it even had its own zip code until a recent postal reorganization! Today it houses numerous shops and restaurants, while also serving as the office headquarters for many different businesses.

Is the Architecture River Tour for You?

Shoreline Sightseeing’s Architecture River tour is consistently one of the most highly rated water-based guided tours offered anywhere in Chicago. Most Architecture River tour participants report back that they greatly enjoyed their experience with Shoreline Sightseeing, and that they particularly liked their personable and knowledgeable tour guide. The Architecture River tour isn’t cheap by any means, but it’s priced pretty similarly to other similar excursions—so if you’re in the market for a guided tour of Chicago’s many architectural wonders that cruises along the scenic Chicago River, this is likely a really good option for you and your group/family.

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shoreline architecture cruise chicago

OR CALL 800.982.2787 GROUPS OF 10+ CALL 312.322.1130

The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady is the city's official architecture tour!

Led by the Chicago Architecture Center 's knowledgeable and expertly trained docent volunteers abroad the city's most luxurious fleet, the cruise reveals fascinating stories behind Chicago's majestic buildings in a way no other tour can.

Safety is our #1 Priority. Learn more about our enhanced protocols .

shoreline architecture cruise chicago

CAC River Cruise

Ticket starting at $48.18 (plus applicable tax) Upgrade ticket for $5 to include Chicago Architecture Center admission

This classic tour is a must for out-of-town visitors and Chicagoans alike. Chicago Architecture Center docents lead you on an entertaining and engaging 90-minute experience. Learn about the architects who created our city's magnificent buildings—and the stories behind them. View our route .

Get your river cruise tickets

Photos from this tour

shoreline architecture cruise chicago

CAC Evening River Cruise

Tickets starting at $52.91 (plus applicable tax) Upgrade ticket for $5 to include Chicago Architecture Center admission

Have a magical experience as you cruise the Chicago River in the evening. You'll delight in breathtaking views as you discover the stories behind our glorious buildings. Limited availability.

Get your evening river cruise tickets

shoreline architecture cruise chicago

*CAC ADMISSION TICKET MAY BE USED FOR UP TO 7 DAYS AFTER YOUR RIVER CRUISE

shoreline architecture cruise chicago

Departure Location

Departs from northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, at 112 E. Wacker Dr., on Chicago's Riverwalk. Look for the blue awning.

Parking is available at 111 E. Wacker Dr., right next to the Chicago Architecture Center.

Children under 3: $23.62 (plus applicable tax) All passengers must present a ticket to board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the dock's wheelchair accessible entrance?

You can access an ADA ramp at Wacker Drive and State Street. When you reach the Riverwalk level, head two blocks east to reach the dock. For Riverwalk level drop-off location. Learn more here.

Where is parking available nearby?

Parking is available at 111 E. Wacker Dr., right next to the Chicago Architecture Center. Read more at cruisechicago.com/location .

Is there food/drink available onboard?

Yes. All boats have a full bar available onboard, as well as local, Chicago-area snacks available for purchase.

Is there assigned seating?

All seating is general admission. There are enough seats for all guests to have a seat outside, so you won’t have to sit inside unless you want to. Indoor seating is available for those who wish to stay out of the sun or adverse weather conditions.

What's included in a CAC visit?

A visit to the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) includes access to two floors of extraordinary exhibits. Admission is normally $15, but with the river cruise bundle, you get access for only $5! Learn more about the CAC at architecture.org .

The Center is currently scheduled to reopen to the public on May 22, 2021.

Can I rent the boat for special events?

Yes! Chicago's First Lady's fleet is available for groups of 2—250 to charter for your special events. You can find out more information by visiting cruisechicago.com/private-events .

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

Advance reservations are recommended as many tours sell out during the summer season and on weekends. Also, the weekday 7:30pm tour often sells out in advance.

Chicago Architecture Center

Nonprofit organization with tours, exhibitions, programs and events for all ages.

Chicago's First Lady

Chicago's finest fleet of cruising vessels accommodating groups up to 250.

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Shoreline Sightseeing

An iconic chicago experience.

Family-owned and operated for three generations and 80-plus years, Shoreline has welcomed generations of Chicagoans as well as guests from just about every country in the world on their tours and cruises.

Explore your Chicago as never before on Shoreline’s lake and river tours! Visit Shoreline Sightseeing online at www.shorelinesightseeing.com or call 1-312-222-9328 for complete details. Group rates are available for purchase. Groups must meet a minimum of 20 guests per tour.

Facebook.com/ShorelineSightseeing |  @shorelinesights | #shorelinesightseeing

Shoreline Sightseeing Cruises

Shoreline Architecture River Tours

Shoreline Architecture River Tours

Take Shoreline’s award-winning 75-minute Architecture River Tour to discover Chicago’s renowned landmarks as presented by our expert and entertaining guides. You’ll learn how Chicago rose...

Shoreline Sightseeing Group Tours

Shoreline Sightseeing Group Tours

Adventures are meant to be shared. Turn your next family gathering or corporate outing into an awesome adventure by booking with Shoreline. We offer special...

Shoreline Sightseeing Water Taxis

Shoreline Sightseeing Water Taxis

Shoreline Sightseeing’s water taxis are a great way to get around town. Starting in May and running through September, our water taxi service offers fast...

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Victor Architecture Cruises , Boat Tours , Fireworks Cruises , Things to Do , Tours Leave a comment

Shoreline Architecture Cruises

Shoreline Architecture Fireworks Cruise During summer season, Navy Pier has fireworks celebration in Chicago. Watching fireworks at Navy Pier is always a great experience but through Shoreline architecture fireworks cruises, visitor can have the best views of Chicago downtown and Navy Pier’s fireworks at night from the boat. This Architecture Fireworks cruise journey includes sailing in Chicago river in downtown which ultimately ends with Navy Pier’s fireworks celebration. Usually, Saturday night Fireworks cruises start from June 4 departing at 9:15 p.m. Wednesday night Fireworks cruises start from June 15th departing at 8:30 p.m.

Chicago By Night Chicago River Architecture Tour Shoreline’s ChicagoByNight tour is designed for the 60 minutes duration. This nighttime architecture cruise starts from Shoreline’s dock at Ogden Slip in the Chicago river. Tour will take you down the Chicago river through Chicago’s world famous skyscrapers and historic buildings. Be ready to know the history of the Chicago starting from Great Fire of 1871. You will pass through world famous building such as Wills Tower, formerly known as Sears Tower, Tribune Tower and Marina City. Boat features cash bar for guests refreshment. So having couple of drink during cruise is not a bad idea at all.

Tags Boat Tours Chicago Cruises Chicago River Chicago Skyline Fireworks Cruises Lake Michigan Lakefront Navy Pier Navy Pier Cruises Shoreline Shoreline Architecture Cruises Shoreline Cruises Shoreline Fireworks Cruises Shoreline Sightseeing Things to Do Travel Guide

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Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour

  • Hours Thursday 11:00AM – 6:00PM Open Now
  • 401 North Michigan Avenue Chicago 60611 United States
  • (312) 222-9328
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Upcoming Events

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Price — $19.00 – $41.00

Explore Chicago’s Amazing Architecture and Dramatic History with special savings for advance online ticket purchases.

Health and Safety protocols include systematic deep cleaning, protective masks required for passengers and crew on all Shoreline vessels, and social distancing for boarding and while on the tour. 

Buy tickets online using code WEB2021 for $3 off adult, $1 off child Architecture Tour tickets. limit four tickets.

All sales are credit and debit purchases; no cash accepted. Schedules and complete information posted daily at  shorelinesightseeing.com  or call (312) 222-9328.

Discover why Shoreline Sightseeing's Architecture River Tour was named as TripAdvisor's #1 Travel Experience in the United states for 2020! Led by Shoreline’s expert and entertaining docents, this 60-minute tour includes the dramatic history and inside stories behind more than 40 architectural landmarks lining the Chicago River route. Find out how Chicago rose from the ashes of the Great Chicago Fire to become the birthplace of the skyscraper and a leader in modern American architecture.

Enjoy breathtaking views and outstanding photo opportunities as you cruise down the Chicago River. Tours depart daily, weather permitting, from Shoreline's dock at the northeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, 401 North Michigan Avenue. Additional tours will be added from Shoreline’s Navy Pier dock once the Pier reopens for the 2021 season. 

  • Mon-Fri 11:00AM – 6:00PM
  • Saturday 11:00AM – 6:00PM
  • Sunday 11:00AM – 6:00PM
  • Accepts Credit Cards
  • Gift Certificate
  • Pets Allowed
  • Private Parties
  • Wheelchair Accessible

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  3. Shoreline Sightseeing Chicago Boat Tours, Architecture Tours

    View over 40 Chicago landmarks on our Architecture Tour as you listen to our expert guides tell you how Chicago's buildings and engineering made the city famous. ... Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis. (312) 222-9328 ext. 1 ...

  4. Architecture River Tour

    On a Chicago Architecture River Tour you'll see over 40 of the city's famous buildings and hear the city's history from our expert boat tour guides. ... Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis. (312) 222-9328 ext. 1 ...

  5. Shoreline Architecture River Tours

    Take Shoreline's award-winning 75-minute Architecture River Tour to discover Chicago's renowned landmarks as presented by our expert and entertaining guides. You'll learn how Chicago rose from the ashes of the Great Fire of 1871 to become the birthplace of the skyscraper and a major influence on the school of modern American architecture.

  6. Chicago's Original Architecture Tour®

    Family-owned and operated since 1935, Wendella is Chicago's Original Architecture Tour. Offering the greatest variety of tours and cruises on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, Wendella is the ultimate Chicago experience. Wendella. Buy Tickets. Menu Open Menu. Close. Tours & Cruises.

  7. Best Architectural River Cruise Chicago

    Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady . Architecture Adventure Awaits! Explore Chicago's iconic architecture aboard TripAdvisor's #1 rated boat tour of the city. The only Chicago River cruise partnered with the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC), Chicago's First Lady Cruises offers visitors the city's most engaging 90-minute architectural tour experience.

  8. Architecture & Sightseeing Cruises

    Take Shoreline's award-winning 75-minute Architecture River Tour to discover Chicago's renowned landmarks as presented by our expert and entertaining guides. ... 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 ...

  9. About Shoreline Sightseeing

    From shoreline to skyline, there's no better way to see Chicago's world-famous architecture than from a Shoreline Sightseeing boat. Our fleet of 11 touring vessels and 6 water taxis is the largest in the city, and our many tours offer amazing views of the city's famous landmarks with incredible stories told by our guides to match. Choose the tour that suits your schedule, then sit back ...

  10. Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

    Buy a combo ticket for the river cruise AND visit the Chicago Architecture Center—you'll save $9! For more than 25 years, the CAC's expertly trained docent volunteers have led the CAC River Cruise, sharing fascinating stories behind more than 50 buildings along the Chicago River. Hear how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the ...

  11. Shoreline Sightseeing: Architecture River Tour

    Shoreline Sightseeing has been leading guided tours on Lake Michigan and along the Chicago River for approximately 80 years. For the past 20 years, they've been running their very popular Architecture River tour for local Chicago residents and visitors from all over the world alike. Throughout this well-regarded excursion you'll have terrific views of a

  12. Shoreline Sightseeing

    Shoreline Sightseeing is Chicago's leader in river and lake cruises! Featuring state-of-the-art tour boats and expert guides, Shoreline presents the Chicago skyline as you've never seen it before. With so many options among our lake and river cruises, we're sure to offer a tour your whole group will love. Our famous Architecture River Tours are ...

  13. 2024 Chicago Architecture River Cruise

    Architecture Tours. from. $42.00. per adult. Best of Chicago Small-Group Tour with Skydeck and River Cruise. 39. Historical Tours. from. $254.00.

  14. Chicago: Architecture River Cruise Skip-the-Line Ticket

    Cruise along the Chicago River on a 60- or 75-minute tour, and discover hidden architectural gems among the city's renowned landmarks. Led by a docent providing live narration, the tour passes more than 40 structures and sails under historic bridges. ... Activity provider:Shoreline Sightseeing. 4.8 / 5 3732 reviews.

  15. River Cruise 2020

    CAC River Cruise. Ticket starting at $48.18 (plus applicable tax) Upgrade ticket for $5 to include Chicago Architecture Center admission. This classic tour is a must for out-of-town visitors and Chicagoans alike. Chicago Architecture Center docents lead you on an entertaining and engaging 90-minute experience.

  16. SHORELINE SIGHTSEEING

    Specialties: A great Chicago experience begins with Shoreline Sightseeing! For over 80 seasons, we've been your guide to Chicago's iconic architecture. Our fleet of 11 touring vessels and 6 water taxis is Chicago's largest. Choose from our legendary Architecture River Tours, named Trip Advisor's Best of the Best in 2023, or Skyline Lake Tours. Groups are welcome on all scheduled tours ...

  17. Shoreline Sightseeing

    Explore your Chicago as never before on Shoreline's lake and river tours! Visit Shoreline Sightseeing online at www.shorelinesightseeing.com or call 1-312-222-9328 for complete details. Group rates are available for purchase. Groups must meet a minimum of 20 guests per tour.

  18. Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour

    Shoreline Sightseeing's award-winning Architecture Tours are led by knowledgeable, entertaining guides and showcase the city's rich architectural heritage. Enjoy state-of-the-art tour boats and see the Chicago skyline as you've never seen it before with Shoreline, Chicago's leading boat company for over 75 years.

  19. Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour

    Shoreline Sightseeing is a unique and memorable way to discover the beauty and history of Chicago's famous architecture. Discover why Shoreline Sightseeing's Architecture River Tour, which was rated the #1 Day Cruise in America for 2018 by TripAdvisor, is a must-do experience for both locals and visitors from around the world! Led by ...

  20. Shoreline Sightseeing :: Tickets

    Now in its 83rd season, Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis. (312) 222-9328 ext. 1 [email protected]

  21. Shoreline Architecture Cruises

    Shoreline Architecture cruises depart from Navy Pier 's Ogden Slip dock station. Tour includes one hour (60 minutes) of cruise in three branches of the Chicago River. This architecture cruise will take travelers through famous buildings such as Chicago Tribune Tower, Wills (Sears) Tower, Marina City, the Wrigley Building and Trump Tower.

  22. Shoreline Architecture River Cruise Discount Tickets

    Shoreline Architecture River Cruise. Chicago All attractions Shoreline Architecture River Cruise. Only on the Explorer Pass. Most popular. Outdoors. Tours & cruises. Family-friendly. $54.49. /person normally.

  23. Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour

    Tours depart daily, weather permitting, from Shoreline's dock at the northeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, 401 North Michigan Avenue. Additional tours will be added from Shoreline's Navy Pier dock once the Pier reopens for the 2021 season. Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour. Mon-Fri 11:00AM - 6:00PM. Saturday 11:00AM ...