Tours/Chicago/Chicago By Night River and Lake Cruise
Viator · group up to 250 pax

Chicago By Night River and Lake Cruise

4.5(344)Chicago1 hour
VIATOR4.5(285)TRIPADVISOR4.7(59)

Description

Glide along the Chicago River and Lakefront as you're dazzled by the sparkle of the city at night! Enjoy breathtaking views of the dramatic skyscrapers and Buckingham Fountain's spectacular light display. Hear lively commentary as you feel the night breeze and see Chicago’s skyline transformed into a glittering jewel. A one-of-a-kind experience to scratch off your Chicago bucket list. Family-friendly cruises are our specialty!

Tour 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

Itinerary

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Travel along the Chicago River to learn about the city's rich history as our lively tour guides bring Chicago to life with interesting stories.

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Admire the Chicago skyline as you cruise along Lake Michigan.

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Get unbelievable views of this shopping and dining area, and the famous Centennial Wheel.

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Take in this 100-story, 1,128-foot supertall skyscraper at 875 N Michigan, home to the 360 Chicago Observation Deck.

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Cruise past Chicago's museum campus and see Adler Planetarium.

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See the The Field Museum, one of the largest natural history museums in the world.

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Shedd Aquarium was once the largest indoor facility in the world!

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Home of the Chicago Bears!

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Enjoy breathtaking views of Buckingham Fountain's spectacular light display.

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The Wrigley Building is a skyscraper built to house the corporate headquarters of the Wrigley Company.

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Pass and view famous landmark.

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Pass and view famous landmark.

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Pass and view famous landmark.

Highlights

All taxes, fees and handling charges
Restroom on board
Live commentary on board
Snacks and beverages are available for purchase onboard.

What's included

Included
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Restroom on board
Live commentary on board
Snacks and beverages are available for purchase onboard.
Not included
Gratuities

Traveller Ratings

4.5
344 reviews
5
265
4
37
3
14
2
5
1
23

Important Information

  • 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

Reviews(344)

E
Eddie_W
July 3, 2026
What a View!

This was a great tour to see downtown Chicago. The view of the buildings was one to remember, but what really took everyone's breath was the view from Lake Michigan! Word of warning though, that lake tends to be a bit on the chilly side at night.

H
holleys968
July 3, 2026
Definitely will do again

We have previously done Chicago River tours during the day. So impressed with the river/lake tour at night. Chicago skyline always delivers. The boat ride was safe and entertaining. I will definitely be on this cruise again.

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LaShawn_R
July 3, 2026
This was an informative...

This was an informative and beautiful experience. It was a great experience from booking to the end of the tour.

B
Barry_H
July 3, 2026
Chicago at night

Great staff with a very nice boat. The tour was fun and informative. Very enjoyable time. If you like Chicago and want to see the skyline all lit up this is a great option.

S
Seth_P
July 1, 2026
Night Cruise On The Lake and River

The Chicago By Night River and Lake Cruise was outstanding. The director of the tour was funny, very knowledgeable and engaging. The boat was clean and the bartenders were skilled. The organizers were professional and I really enjoyed my time. I’m glad I did it

Operator response

Thank you for your review. We think our employees are awesome too. We strive to make our tours memorable for all of our guests. We are thrilled you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.

K
Karen_M
June 30, 2026
Views

Windy and cool on the lake! Excellent guide pointed out all the history and architectural gems in the city!

Operator response

Thank you for your review. We are thrilled you enjoyed your tour with us. We strive to make our tours memorable for our guests. Hope you return soon.

J
Joel_L
June 29, 2026
Seeing it is believing it.

The views and history are unbelievable. Breath taking views. Great crew. Take a ride of a lifetime. Take lots of pictures.

Operator response

Thank you for your review. Yes, Chicago is a beautiful city especially in the evening. We strive to make our tours memorable for our guests. We are thrilled you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.

A
Angelo_S
June 29, 2026
A wonderful experience

Great experience! RJ was a great tour guide. Extremely passionate and knowledgeable about the down town city of Chicago.

Operator response

Thank you for your review. We think RJ is awesome too. We strive to make our tour memorable for all of our guests. We are thrilled you enjoyed your tour. Hope you will return soon.

L
Laura_L
June 29, 2026
Bring a jacket for...

Bring a jacket for evening tours All seats have a great view Person educating on what you're seeing is very knowledgeable and entertaining

Operator response

Thank you for your review and feedback. We are thrilled you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.

S
Sharon_L
June 29, 2026
Very clean boat; fun...

Very clean boat; fun narrator. Lovely evening cruise. Interesting info about Chicago. Would recommend it.

Operator response

Thank you for your review. We are glad you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.

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