Chicago Architectural and Leisure Cruises
Viator Architectural and Leisure Cruises
Viator, a TripAdvisor company, offers a variety of architectural cruises in Chicago that showcase the city's iconic buildings and landmarks. Some of their most popular cruises include:
Chicago Architecture River Cruise: This 75-minute cruise takes passengers on a journey along the Chicago River, where they can see some of the city's most famous buildings, including the Willis Tower, the Wrigley Building, and the Tribune Tower. The tour is narrated by a guide who provides interesting historical and architectural information about each building. YOU CAN BOOK THIS CRUISE here.
Chicago Fireworks Cruise: This 2-hour evening cruise takes passengers on a scenic tour of the Chicago River, where they can see the city's iconic buildings illuminated against the night sky. The tour culminates with a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Michigan. YOU CAN BOOK THIS CRUISE here.
Chicago Sunset Cruise: This 2-hour cruise takes passengers on a relaxing journey along the Chicago River, where they can watch the sunset over the city's skyline. The tour is narrated by a guide who provides interesting historical and architectural information about each building. So hop aboard your open-top vessel in the heart of the Magnificent Mile, and cruise along the Chicago River, where your guide will point out architectural highlights. Then, see the skyline from a distance, and watch the skyscrapers light up, when you continue to Lake Michigan for a sunset viewing. YOU CAN BOOK here.
- Chicago Speedboat Cruise: This cruise zips along Lake Michigan, moving past famous Chicago landmarks. Climb aboard your 2,000-horsepower speed boat at Navy Pier and then race past famous attractions like the Willis Tower, Grant Park, and Buckingham Fountain, while getting a guided tour about the history and architecture of Chicago. YOU CAN BOOK here.
- Chicago Lunch Cruise: THIS IS VIATOR'S MOST POPULAR CHICAGO CRUISE. The lunch cruise is a boat tour that takes visitors along the shoreline of Lake Michigan and provides stunning views of the Chicago skyline while enjoying a delicious meal. YOU CAN BOOK here. Here are the key points of the lunch cruise experience:
- The lunch cruise typically departs in the late morning or early afternoon and lasts for a couple of hours.
- Visitors board a comfortable vessel with indoor and outdoor seating options.
- The boat tour takes visitors along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, providing stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
- During the tour, visitors enjoy a delicious meal, which typically includes a starter, main course, and dessert. There are also vegetarian options available.
- Visitors can purchase drinks and other refreshments from the boat's bar.
- The crew provides commentary on the history and architecture of the city throughout the tour.
- The lunch cruise is a relaxing and enjoyable way to experience Chicago's skyline and waterfront while enjoying a delicious meal.
Highlights of these cruises include seeing the iconic architecture of Chicago from a unique perspective, learning about the city's rich history and culture, and enjoying scenic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.
@lefttodiscover Chicago River Architecture Tour is a must in the Windy City #foryou #travel #architecture #tour #Chicago ♬ Summer Days - Martin Garrix / Macklemore / Patrick Stump
@whatsinthebox305lending Sunset cruise allows for the best views that Chicago has to offer! #cruise #boat #water #chicago #architecture #realestate #shoreline #sightseeing #cold ♬ First Class - Jack Harlow
The 75 minutes Chicago Architecture Cruise
Here's what you can expect from this tour:
Meeting point: The tour begins at the Michigan Avenue Bridge, located in the heart of downtown Chicago. Look for signs and a Viator banner to find the departure point.
Boarding: Once you arrive at the departure point, you'll board the boat that will take you on the architecture cruise. The boat is a comfortable and spacious vessel that can accommodate up to 150 passengers, and it's equipped with modern amenities such as restrooms and a snack bar.
Departure: The boat will depart promptly at the scheduled time, so make sure you arrive early to avoid missing the tour. As the boat sets off, you'll be greeted by stunning views of the Chicago skyline, including towering skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and picturesque parks.
Tour guide: A knowledgeable and friendly tour guide will accompany you on the cruise, providing commentary on the city's fascinating history and architecture. The guide will use a microphone and speaker system to ensure that everyone on board can hear their insights and anecdotes clearly.
Architecture highlights: During the 75-minute cruise, you'll pass by some of Chicago's most iconic and historic buildings, including the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), the John Hancock Center, the Wrigley Building, and the Tribune Tower. The guide will provide detailed information about each building's architectural style, history, and significance, as well as fun facts and trivia.
Chicago River: The highlight of the cruise is the Chicago River, which offers an up-close and personal look at some of the city's most impressive buildings. The boat will pass through the Chicago Lock and down the river, offering stunning views of the city's skyline from a unique perspective.
Refreshments: If you get hungry or thirsty during the cruise, don't worry – the boat is equipped with a snack bar that sells a variety of refreshments, including soft drinks, beer, wine, and snacks.
Return journey: After 75 minutes of sightseeing, the boat will return to the Michigan Avenue Bridge, where you'll disembark and have the opportunity to explore the city on foot.
Overall, Viator's 75-minute Chicago Architecture Cruise is a great option for visitors who are short on time but still want to experience the city's famous architecture. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable boat, and stunning views, it's a great way to see some of the Windy City's most iconic landmarks in just over an hour.
Nighttime Fireworks Display Cruise
Viator's Chicago Fireworks Cruise is a popular nighttime tour that takes visitors on a scenic boat ride to watch the city's weekly fireworks display. YOU CAN BOOK here. Here's a detailed breakdown of what you can expect from this cruise:
Meeting point: The tour begins at the Michigan Avenue Bridge, located in the heart of downtown Chicago. Look for signs and a Viator banner to find the departure point.
Boarding: Once you arrive at the departure point, you'll board the boat that will take you on the fireworks cruise. The boat is a comfortable and spacious vessel that can accommodate up to 150 passengers, and it's equipped with modern amenities such as restrooms and a snack bar.
Departure: The boat will depart promptly at the scheduled time, so make sure you arrive early to avoid missing the tour. As the boat sets off, you'll be able to enjoy the stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.
Tour guide: A knowledgeable and friendly tour guide will accompany you on the cruise, providing commentary on the city's fascinating history and landmarks. The guide will use a microphone and speaker system to ensure that everyone on board can hear their insights and anecdotes clearly.
Fireworks display: As the boat cruises along the lake, you'll be able to enjoy the stunning views of the Chicago skyline at night. When the fireworks display begins, the boat will anchor in a prime viewing location, allowing you to watch the show from the water. The fireworks are typically launched from Navy Pier and last for approximately 15-20 minutes.
Refreshments: If you get hungry or thirsty during the cruise, don't worry – the boat is equipped with a snack bar that sells a variety of refreshments, including soft drinks, beer, wine, and snacks.
Return journey: After the fireworks display has ended, the boat will return to the Michigan Avenue Bridge, where you'll disembark and have the opportunity to explore the city on foot.
Viator's Chicago Fireworks Cruise is a fantastic way to enjoy the city's weekly fireworks display from a unique and memorable perspective. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable boat, and stunning views, it's a must-do activity for anyone visiting the Windy City during the summer months.
Lake Michigan Speedboat Cruise
Viator's Chicago Speedboat Cruise is an exciting way to experience the city's famous landmarks from a different perspective. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable speedboat, and stunning views, it's a thrilling activity for anyone looking for a bit of adventure during their visit to the Windy City. YOU CAN BOOK here. Here's a detailed breakdown of what you can expect from this cruise:
Meeting point: The tour begins at the Michigan Avenue Bridge, located in the heart of downtown Chicago. Look for signs and a Viator banner to find the departure point.
Boarding: Once you arrive at the departure point, you'll board the speedboat that will take you on the cruise. The speedboat is a sleek and modern vessel that can accommodate up to 30 passengers, and it's equipped with comfortable seating and safety equipment.
Departure: The boat will depart promptly at the scheduled time, so make sure you arrive early to avoid missing the tour. As the boat sets off, you'll be able to enjoy the stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.
Tour guide: A knowledgeable and friendly tour guide will accompany you on the cruise, providing commentary on the city's fascinating history and landmarks. The guide will use a microphone and speaker system to ensure that everyone on board can hear their insights and anecdotes clearly.
Speedboat ride: As the boat cruises along the Chicago River, you'll experience the thrill of high-speed boating. The speedboat can reach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour, allowing you to see the city's famous landmarks from a unique perspective.
Architecture highlights: During the speedboat cruise, you'll pass by some of Chicago's most iconic and historic buildings, including the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), the John Hancock Center, the Wrigley Building, and the Tribune Tower. The guide will provide detailed information about each building's architectural style, history, and significance, as well as fun facts and trivia.
Refreshments: If you get thirsty during the cruise, don't worry – the boat is equipped with a cooler that provides complimentary bottled water.
Return journey: After the high-speed adventure has ended, the boat will return to the Michigan Avenue Bridge, where you'll disembark and have the opportunity to explore the city on foot.
Viator's Chicago Speedboat Cruise is an exciting way to experience the city's famous landmarks from a different perspective. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable speedboat, and stunning views, it's a thrilling activity for anyone looking for a bit of adventure during their visit to the Windy City.
Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise
Viator's sunset cruise in Chicago is a popular tourist attraction that allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Chicago skyline as the sun sets over Lake Michigan. YOU CAN BOOK here. Here's a description of what you can expect:
The cruise typically starts in the early evening, just as the sun begins to set. As you board the boat, you'll be greeted by the friendly crew and shown to your seat. The boat is typically a comfortable vessel with indoor and outdoor seating areas, so you can choose where you'd like to sit.
Once the boat departs, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Chicago skyline. You'll see iconic buildings like the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), the John Hancock Center, and the Trump Tower, all bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. The boat will cruise along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, providing a unique perspective of the city that you can't get from land.
As you take in the views, the crew will provide commentary on the history of the city and its architecture. You'll learn about famous architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and hear stories about Chicago's colorful past.
The highlight of the cruise is, of course, the sunset itself. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky fills with brilliant colors, casting a warm glow over the city. It's a magical moment that you won't soon forget.
Throughout the cruise, you'll have the opportunity to purchase drinks and snacks from the boat's bar. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available, as well as light snacks like chips and candy.
Viator's sunset cruise in Chicago is a relaxing and scenic way to experience the city. Whether you're a local or a first-time visitor, it's an experience you won't want to miss.
