Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise

4.7 (590 reviews) 1 hr 30 min (Approx)
Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise

This popular 90-minute, fully narrated daytime river and lake tour delights families with incredible views of Chicago's famous architecture, stunning skyline and stories about the city's rich history.

About this activity

Duration: 1 hr 30 min (approx)
Live English-speaking guide
Instant confirmation • Mobile ticket
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before start

Highlights

  • 90-minute fully narrated river and lake cruise
  • Skyline views from Lake Michigan, not only the river
  • Chicago harbor lock
  • Wheelchair accessible on the main deck

Full description

Board the First Lady at the DuSable Bridge and enjoy 90 minutes of fully narrated sightseeing across both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Your guide weaves together architecture, neighborhood history and the engineering story of the river that was famously reversed in 1900. You'll glide past Marina City, the Merchandise Mart and 150 N Riverside before heading out Chicago harbor locks for an unmatched view of the Chicago skyline from the lake. Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating make it an easy, scenic introduction to the city.

Includes

  • 90-minute narrated cruise on the First Lady
  • Live English-speaking guide
  • Access to indoor and outdoor seating
  • All taxes and dock fees

Meeting point

Chicago's First Lady, 112 East Wacker Drive, 60601 Cook County Chicago, US.

View on Google Maps

Important information

  • Arrive at the dock at least 30 minutes before departure
  • Operates seasonally — lake portion is subject to weather
  • Light layer recommended; the lake breeze is cooler
  • Check in at the First Lady ticket booth at Wacker & Michigan

What's allowed

  • Cameras and phones
  • Small bags and backpacks
  • Folded strollers
  • Service animals

Not allowed

  • Outside alcohol
  • Smoking and vaping
  • Large luggage
  • Drones

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 48 hours before your scheduled tour start. Cancellations made within 48 hours of your tour start time are non-refundable. To cancel, head to Manage Booking.

You May Also Like

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent MileFamily Favorite
45 min (Approx)4.7(3,263)

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

A 45-minute family-friendly Chicago River cruise from the Magnificent Mile with live commentary on the city's iconic architecture.

Wendella Tours & Cruises, 400 North Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, US
From
$28/person
Buy Ticket
Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture TourMost Popular
1 hr 30 min (Approx)4.7(10,150)

Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour

The flagship 90-minute Wendella architecture cruise — all three branches of the Chicago River with a live expert guide.

Wendella Tours & Cruises, 400 North Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, US
From
$45/person
Buy Ticket
Chicago Fireboat Fireworks CruiseFireworks
1 hr 30 min (Approx)4.6(412)

Chicago Fireboat Fireworks Cruise

A 90-minute evening cruise on a historic Chicago fireboat with front-row seats to the Navy Pier fireworks over Lake Michigan.

Chicago Fireboat Tours, 111 N Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable Lake Shore Dr Dock H, Chicago, IL 60601, USA.
From
$63/person
Buy Ticket
Chicago By Night River and Lake CruiseEvening Cruise
1 hr 30 min (Approx)4.5(330)

Chicago By Night River and Lake Cruise

A 90-minute after-dark cruise along the Chicago River and out onto Lake Michigan with the city skyline lit up in full.

Chicago's First Lady, 112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, USA.
From
$50/person
Buy Ticket
Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in ChicagoSunset
1 hr 30 min (Approx)4.5(1,597)

Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in Chicago

A 90-minute Lake Michigan sunset cruise from the Magnificent Mile with sweeping golden-hour views of the Chicago skyline.

400 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
From
$45/person
Buy Ticket
Chicago Architecture Lake and River CruiseLake + River
1 hr 30 min (Approx)4.7(2,343)

Chicago Architecture Lake and River Cruise

A 90-minute fully narrated combo cruise pairing the Chicago River skyline with sweeping views of downtown from Lake Michigan.

400 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA (near the Wrigley Building)
From
$45/person
Buy Ticket