Tours/Chicago/Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise
Viator · group up to 115 pax

Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise

4.7(610)Chicago1 hour
VIATOR4.7(425)TRIPADVISOR4.7(185)

Description

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!

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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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.

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

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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.

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

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One of the largest natural history museums in the world!

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

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

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Soldier Field is a Chicago landmark and home to the Chicago Bears.

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

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

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

Highlights

All taxes, fees and handling charges
Live commentary on board

What's included

Included
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Live commentary on board
Not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks

Traveller Ratings

4.7
610 reviews
5
518
4
60
3
7
2
7
1
18

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(610)

D
donnagW8550PU
July 3, 2026
Wonderful

The tour guide Olivia was very knowledgeable. Enjoyed the Chicago River and being on Lake Michigan.

R
Renee_V
July 2, 2026
Views

Loved the views and being on the water. The sights were incredible. Tour guide was very friendly and answered questions.

A
Anselmo_S
July 2, 2026
Down the Chicago River!!!!

GREAT RIDE and the Narration was excellent!!We set sail and everything was fine even in the misty rain!!

Operator response

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

2
29michelej
June 30, 2026
Love Chicago

Awesome experience. It was a beautiful day and the guide was exceptional. We will definitely book again.

Operator response

Thank you for your review. Glad you enjoyed your tour with us. We strive to make our tour memorable for all of our guests. Hope you will return soon.

D
Dawn_B
June 29, 2026
Fun with grandkids!

Bring a sweater. You never know when it might get chilly out on the great lake. Of course you can by one while on the boat. Warm and snuggled with a great fit.

Operator response

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

R
REGINA_E
June 27, 2026
Good choice for cruise

River cruise into Lake Michigan with an amazing guide who knew the entire history of Chicago. He points out a lot of buildings and other sights. Before you can go into the lake you have to wait for the water to settle which is interesting in itself. You will have a great view of Chicago from the water.

Operator response

Thank you for your review. The Chicago Harbor Lock is an engineering marvel and Chicago's skyline is photogenic.We are glad you enjoyed your tour with us. Hope you will return soon.

M
Matthew_H
June 24, 2026
This was a perfect way to...

This was a perfect way to see Chicago to start our trip! Our tour guide, Matthew, was incredibly knowledgeable and entertaining! Our kids, boys aged 9 & 12, also enjoyed the tour!

Operator response

Thank you for sharing your experience, Matthew! We're glad to hear that our guide made the experience both memorable and enjoyable for your family. It's especially wonderful to know that your sons enjoyed the tour as well! We appreciate your kind words and hope the rest of your time in Chicago is just as memorable!

A
Agustin_R
June 23, 2026
Great time with the family!

Tour guide was exceptional! Great event to do if visiting from out of town! Book in advance if if definitely want to sit in the front get priority boarding

Operator response

Thank you so much for your fantastic review Agustin! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed the tour and that our guide made such a positive impression. It's wonderful to know you'd recommend the experience to visitors from out of town. We also appreciate your helpful tip about priority boarding for guests who want front row seating! Thank you for choosing first lady, and we hope to welcome you aboard again soon!

M
Monica_T
June 23, 2026
Beautiful red rocks!

It was excellent. Very beautiful, interesting, a great experience. The guide, MC I think, was very knowledgeable.

Operator response

Thank you for your wonderful review Monica! We're thrilled to hear that you had an enjoyable experience and found the tour both beautiful and engaging. We're especially pleased to hear that MC helped make your cruise memorable. We appreciate you choosing First Lady and look forward to welcoming you aboard again soon!

M
Marilyn_C
June 23, 2026
Chicago River and Lake tour

Very interesting and relaxing. A great way to see downtown Chicago from the river and Lake Michigan!

Operator response

Thank you so much for your review Marilyn! We're so glad you found the tour both interesting and relaxing. The view of downtown from the river and Lake Michigan is truly a memorable experience. We appreciate you coming aboard and hope to welcome you back for another cruise soon!

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