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Activities & Tours: Illinois

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Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Experience one of the world’s most beautiful cities on a cruise down the historic Chicago River. On this architecture cruise, head down the main branch of the Chicago River, up the north branch to the East Bank Club, and then south past Willis Tower (Sears Tower) to the old Post Office Building. Take in magnificent city skyline views as you see more than 40 notable buildings, including the John Hancock Center and the Wrigley Building, and learn about their distinctive architecture from your onboard guide, an expert in architecture.
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based on 12587 reviews
See Details → Duration :1 hours 15 minutes
From $53.7
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Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour

Be inspired by the captivating, visual art that is Chicago’s legendary architecture, and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing, dynamic legacy for all to enjoy and admire. This comprehensive 90 minute tour will navigate through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River while your professionally-trained architectural guide tells the story of more than 130 years of innovation in design, style and technique and why it is important today. The Chicago River Architecture Tour is the most authentic and encompassing Chicago experience the city has to offer.
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based on 5401 reviews
See Details → Duration :1 hours 30 minutes
From $44
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Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length architecture tours. Hop aboard our world class vessels as our local authentic tour guides showcase our amazing city.
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based on 1095 reviews
See Details → Duration :45 minutes
From $28
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Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

An authentic Chicago tradition since 1935, this is the tour that started it all. This unique excursion tells the story of more than 200 years of fascinating social, cultural and political history, and explores more than a century of groundbreaking architecture. The journey begins with an up-close perspective of Chicago's internationally-known architecture as seen from the Chicago River. Then venture through the Chicago Lock on to the calm, cool waters of Lake Michigan for expansive views of Chicago's extraordinary 26-mile skyline. Take the selfie of a lifetime on this inspirational experience!
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based on 1708 reviews
See Details → Duration :1 hours 30 minutes
From $44
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Chicago River Architecture Tour with Small Boat Upgrade Option

Welcome to Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours! We’re proud to present you with an in-depth, expert architectural-based river boat tour that delves into one of the most remarkable American cities today. Known for unique, daring, and historical architectural pursuits, it’s hard to cover all of the design and building treasures that make up the Windy City today. If you’re ready to learning more about the designs, people, and innovations behind these creations, throw on your captains hat and get ready to cruise along the Chicago River and see what architects from around the world travel to see in Chicago. Tour departures from 465 N. McClurg Ct.
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based on 694 reviews
See Details → Duration :1 hours 30 minutes
From $49
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Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady has long been the gold standard among all Chicago tour experiences, and is the only Chicago architecture boat tour led by highly trained expert docents. On this 90-minute cruise, you will enjoy an overview of historic and modern architectural styles including stories about the people who designed and built Chicago. As a certified nonprofit, all ticket purchases directly support education efforts and community engagement projects. No visit to Chicago is complete without experiencing this award winning tour, so accept no substitutes.
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based on 2019 reviews
See Details → Duration :1 hours 30 minutes
From $54
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Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago

Admire all of Chicago's fabulous lakefront sights and attractions on this Lake Michigan boat tour. Cruise along Lake Michigan and take in amazing views of the city’s famous skyscrapers from a great vantage point. Feel free to bring a lunch and enjoy drinks from the onboard bar as you relax on this sightseeing cruise.
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based on 680 reviews
See Details → Duration :40 minutes
From $37.58
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Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

Marvel at the magnificent architecture on the Chicago River with expert tour guides! All ages welcome. Each architecture river tour is narrated by a professional guide which leads passengers down the Chicago River to discover the city’s most renowned landmarks. In addition to historical insight on well known structures such as the Civic Opera House, Trump Tower & the Merchandise Mart, passengers will also get a chance to learn about current and upcoming developments. This Chicago River Cruise is the only cruise that navigates the three primary branches of the river including the main branch to Navy Pier, the north branch to Goose Island, and the south branch to Chinatown. It is also the cruise closest to Skydeck, has the least expensive parking, and is great for those coming from the suburbs due to its location off Interstate 290.
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based on 1095 reviews
See Details → Duration :1 hours 30 minutes
From $37
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Chicago Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

Experience the best of Chicago with a Premier Dinner Cruise and spend your evening on Lake Michigan with dining, picturesque views, DJ entertainment, and dancing. While onboard, you’ll enjoy our chef-prepared plated menus, creative cocktails, distinctive service, and breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline and attractions from our climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks. Whether for a romantic dinner for two or for a special evening with friends and family, our dinner cruises are the perfect way to elevate any occasion and see Chicago from the water! Please arrive at the boarding location at least 30 minutes before your scheduled cruise time. The tour will begin promptly. Includes - 3-course, chef-plated menu - Spectacular views of the Chicago skyline including the Willis Tower - and Adler Planetarium - DJ-curated music - Guaranteed table for your party size - Complimentary coffee, hot tea, and iced tea
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based on 283 reviews
See Details → Duration :2 hours 30 minutes
From $131.94
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Chicago Buffet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

Our Chicago Signature Lunch Cruise is an unforgettable way to experience the city from the water. Spend your afternoon on Lake Michigan with dining, picturesque views, DJ entertainment, and an assortment of games. While onboard, you’ll enjoy our chef-prepared lunch buffet, a fully stocked bar, and incredible views of Chicago’s skyline and attractions from our climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks. Whether for a scenic lunch for two or for an unforgettable afternoon with friends and family, our Lunch Cruises are perfect for any occasion and serve as the best way to see Chicago from the water!  Please arrive at the boarding location at least 30 minutes before your scheduled cruise time. The tour will begin promptly.
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based on 265 reviews
See Details → Duration :2 hours
From $85.97
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Chicago 3D Fireworks Cruise

Be Dazzled on Mercury's 3D Fireworks Cruise! Capture stunning photos of Chicago’s skyline from the Lake on Saturdays or from the mouth of the river on Wednesdays. Saturday 3D Fireworks cruise is featured on the lake. A lively cruise past Buckingham Fountain, Museum Campus, the Chicago River Lock and more. Wednesday 3D Fireworks cruise is featured on the river only. Includes light narration on the main and south branches of the river. Ends with the fireworks spectacle at the mouth of the river. (Does not go on the lake.) Then put on your complimentary “3D” glasses and enjoy a musical soundtrack as you take in an unbeatable view of a spectacular fireworks display!
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based on 158 reviews
See Details → Duration :4 hours
From $49
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Chicago Fireworks Dinner Cruise with Buffet

Our Signature Chicago 4th of July Fireworks Dinner Cruise is the ultimate way to kick off summer's biggest celebration. The spectacular Chicago fireworks will captivate you as you enjoy the show from your front row seats on the water. Unparalleled festivities are in store this 4th of with dining, dancing, and magnificent skyline views on Lake Michigan for a casual evening out. Enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared buffet and gorgeous views of Chicago's spectacular architecture while soaking in the beautiful summer weather. You'll marvel at famed city landmarks, such as the Willis Tower, and Adler Planetarium, from our climate-controlled interior and open-air roof decks. We keep the spirits flowing with a fully stocked bar, games, and lively music from our DJ. Set sail on an unforgettable 4th of July celebration! Includes Must be 21 or older with valid ID 3-hour dinner cruise on Lake Michigan Delicious dinner buffet with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts
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based on 56 reviews
See Details → Duration :3 hours
From $147.5
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Chicago's Lake Michigan Plated Lunch Cruise

Experience the best of Chicago with a Premier Lunch Cruise and spend your afternoon on Lake Michigan with dining, picturesque views, and DJ entertainment. While onboard, you’ll enjoy our chef-prepared plated menus, creative cocktails, distinctive service, and breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline and attractions from our climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks. Whether for a scenic lunch for two or for an unforgettable afternoon with friends and family, our Lunch Cruises are the perfect way to elevate any occasion and see Chicago from the water!  Includes 2-hour lunch cruise on Lake Michigan 3-course, chef-prepared plated menu Spectacular views of the Chicago skyline including the Willis Tower and Adler Planetarium DJ curated music Guaranteed table for your party size Complimentary coffee, hot tea, and iced tea
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based on 84 reviews
See Details → Duration :2 hours
From $71.67
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Chicago Urban Adventure River and Lake Cruise

Our popular 90-minute daytime river and lake tour, the Urban Adventure Cruise, delights family members of all ages with incredible views of Chicago's world-renowned architecture 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!
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based on 275 reviews
See Details → Duration :1 hours 30 minutes
From $42
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Lake Michigan Fireworks Cruise in Chicago

No city embraces summer quite like Chicago. Join in the celebration with friends and family on this epic fireworks cruise. Get up-close and personal every Wednesday and Saturday night with an unobstructed 360-degree view of this exciting and thunderous spectacle.
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based on 57 reviews
See Details → Duration :2 to 3 hours
From $50