chicago u boat tour

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

What's here.

Providing unique experiences designed to spark scientific inquiry and creativity since 1933.

5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL 60637

Getting here

Inspire the next generation of scientific leaders and thinkers with a gift today.

Tour / U-505 On-board Tour

U-505 submarine, open today from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. open tomorrow from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m..

Want even more of the U- 505 experience? Take the optional on-board tour through the submarine, available daily.

Board the U- 505  submarine, the actual craft that stalked the waters of the Atlantic before it was blown to the surface and captured on June 4, 1944. From the cramped quarters to the feel of battle, it's an interactive walk through a piece of history that you'll never forget.

This tour is not included in Museum Entry, and requires a separate timed-entry ticket. See below for more details and ticket information.

  • Multiple tours daily.
  • For all ages

This exhibit requires an additional ticket with a specified entry time.

  • Accessibility notes

Prepare to Board

Complete with dramatic lighting and sound effects, the tour lets you experience life aboard this sub firsthand in the days leading up to her capture. The tour lasts about 25 minutes, including a question-and-answer session at the conclusion.

The U-505 On-board Tour is not included in Museum Entry, and requires a separate, timed-entry ticket.

Adult – $18 Child (3-11) – $14

United States military active-duty personnel and veterans receive $4 off U- 505 On-Board Tour tickets.  See details.

Tour tips and notes

  • Tour capacity and schedule have been reduced so advance online tickets are recommended.
  • The on-board tour is not accessible to strollers, Segways or wheelchairs. See  accessibility notes .
  • Please arrive early to your U- 505 On-board Tour, and allow 5–10 minutes to get from the U- 505 exhibit entrance to the tour entrance. Late guests cannot be admitted and will be rescheduled if availability permits.
  • Stroller parking is available at the sub entrance.
  • Parents of young children: this tour discusses and briefly replicates the wartime conditions on a submarine, including mention of casualties and some sound effects.

More to explore

U-505 Submarine

Experience the real U-505, the only German submarine in the United States.

Transportation Gallery

Transportation Gallery

Explore how humankind has flown, soared, sped and chugged throughout the years.

Earth Revealed

Earth Revealed

Get an up-close and near “real-time” view of our planet Earth.

How can we help you?

Loading more results ...

No more results to load

  • Join + Give

Thank you for visiting our site! We noticed you are using a browser we no longer support. To have the best overall experience and avoid issues navigating the site, please click one of the supported browsers to the right to download the latest version for free:

chicago u boat tour

Chicago Live! Day Two Continues Indoors Sunday FREE | Pier-wide | 12PM-6PM

  Day 2 of Chicago Live! continues with more back-to-back performances across the Pier! Check out the lineup for Sunday’s indoor performances within some amazing Pier spaces. Presented by The Pritzker Foundation with generous support from Peoples Gas.

Search Site

Back to Menu

cruises and tours 1

Unforgettable views. Unparalleled experiences.

Cruises & Tours

Explore chicago by land, water or air.

Whether you’re in town for just one day or are a life-long resident, cruises and tours of Chicago are a great way to see the sights, discover something new, or treat yourself to an unforgettable experience.

From laid-back sightseeing cruises and elegant dining cruises to heart-pumping thrill rides to upscale private charters, Lake Michigan and Chicago River cruises departing from Navy Pier offer a memorable experience for all.

cruises and tours 2 1

Our Cruises & Tours

Odyssey Lake Michigan OLM exterior

City Cruises

Experience Chicago from the water! Enjoy a meal cruise with chef-prepared dishes, live DJ, and stunning views. Or, take a Seadog speedboat ride for an architecture tour or a lakefront speedboat adventure.

Tall Ship Windy Memorial Day Skyline Page Background

Tall Ship Windy

Tall Ship Windy at Navy Pier offers educational boat tours, storytelling, student trips, concert sails, and architectural tours. Enjoy the Chicago skyline aboard our tall ship!

Navy Pier Skyline Lake Cruise Overhead Photo

Shoreline Sightseeing

Discover Chicago’s iconic architecture from our fleet of touring vessels and water taxis. Our guided tours offer captivating stories from knowledgeable guides. Choose your tour, relax, and enjoy the skyline!

odyssey lake michigan

Groups And Private Charters

Perfect for corporate outings and special occasions, group cruises and private charters offer unforgettable experiences for up to 800 guests.

cruises and tours bicycle tours 1

Bicycle Tours

Bike & Roll Chicago allows guests to rent bicycles for a fun experience on the lakefront.

Cruise & Tour Types

Shoreline Architecture River Tours

Shoreline Architecture River Tours

Take Shoreline’s award-winning 75-minute Architecture River Tour to discover Chicago’s renowned landmarks as presented by our expert and entertaining guides. You’ll learn how Chicago rose...

City Cruises – Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

City Cruises – Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan dinner cruises are the perfect setting for celebrating with friends, connecting with colleagues, or a romantic evening. Odyssey Lake Michigan dinner cruises are...

City Cruises – Premier Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

City Cruises – Premier Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

A two-hour Lake Michigan lunch cruise is the perfect way to enjoy time with family or the company of great friends. Retreat from a busy...

City Cruises – Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

City Cruises – Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

Celebrate a special occasion, host a group event or share a romantic evening aboard Spirit of Chicago. Great for parties of all sizes, a Spirit...

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Dinner Cruise

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Dinner Cruise

Catch the Chicago skyline at sunset during the most beautiful time of the year, and join us for a fun, laid-back, 2-hour cruise. Spirit's Lakefront...

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Dinner Cruises

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Dinner Cruises

Odyssey Lake Michigan presents special prix fixe dinner cruises, offering guests the opportunity to try one of Chicago’s most unique dining experiences at an incredible...

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Brunch Cruises

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Brunch Cruises

Whether you’re a native Chicagoan, newcomer, or just visiting, a Spirit of Chicago brunch cruise is the perfect weekend outing. See well-known Chicago attractions from...

City Cruises – Signature Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

City Cruises – Signature Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

With the sunshine reflecting off the lakefront, there’s no better place to enjoy an afternoon in Chicago than aboard a lunch cruise. Departing from Navy...

City Cruises – Seadog River and Lake Architecture Tour

City Cruises – Seadog River and Lake Architecture Tour

Enjoy Chicago’s iconic skyline with an exciting architecture cruise on the Chicago River. Departing from Navy Pier, this 75-minute narrated cruise is the best way...

City Cruises – Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour

City Cruises – Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour

Our Lakefront Speedboat Tour is the best way to view Chicago from the lake, combining an exciting speedboat ride along the shoreline with informative and...

City Cruises – Seadog Extreme Thrill Rides

City Cruises – Seadog Extreme Thrill Rides

With exhilarating high speeds and full 360° spins, this jet-propelled ride blasts off to start and splashes down to stop. Experience full throttle slalom runs,...

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Brunch Cruise

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Brunch Cruise

This two-hour brunch cruise on Odyssey Lake Michigan, departing from Navy Pier, is ideal for capping off an incredible weekend. Enjoy a delicious menu stocked...

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Groups

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Groups

Host a truly unforgettable event on Lake Michigan. Book your group aboard one of Odyssey's regularly scheduled lunch or dinner cruises, or have an event...

Shoreline Sightseeing Group Tours

Shoreline Sightseeing Group Tours

Adventures are meant to be shared. Turn your next family gathering or corporate outing into an awesome adventure by booking with Shoreline. We offer special...

City Cruises – Chicago Elite Private Events

City Cruises – Chicago Elite Private Events

It's your yacht. Let our professional event planners create a custom event just for your group aboard the Chicago Elite. With two fully enClosed ,...

City Cruises – Seadog Groups

City Cruises – Seadog Groups

Planning a special outing for your group? Charter Seadog for an event everyone will enjoy! With the ability to travel both the lake and river,...

Shoreline Sightseeing Water Taxis

Shoreline Sightseeing Water Taxis

Shoreline Sightseeing’s water taxis are a great way to get around town. Starting in May and running through September, our water taxi service offers fast...

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Group Cruises

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Group Cruises

Host an event unlike any other in the city! Book your group aboard one of Spirit’s regularly scheduled lunch, brunch, cocktail or dinner cruises, or...

City Cruises – Premier Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

City Cruises – Premier Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

Experience the city’s most unique floating event venue! City Cruises offers all-inclusive packages, chef-prepared menus, full bar options, and entertainment customized to fit your needs—all...

City Cruises – Signature Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

City Cruises – Signature Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

Shoreline Skyline Lake Tours

Shoreline Skyline Lake Tours

Shoreline’s 40-minute Skyline Lake Tour offers a relaxing way to experience the panoramic of the city’s famed skyline as seen from majestic Lake Michigan. The...

Tall Ship Windy Chicago Skyline Sail

Tall Ship Windy Chicago Skyline Sail

Tall Ship Windy is closed for the season and will reopen in May 2024. Visit the Tall Ship Windy website to stay up to date...

Tall Ship Windy Private Charters & Weddings in Chicago

Tall Ship Windy Private Charters & Weddings in Chicago

A Beautiful Stage for Your Event Set sail on Windy for weddings, parties, corporate functions, reunions, church outings, tour groups, team building and more! Windy...

chicago u boat tour

Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours

Chicago River Tours | Fireworks Tours | Jazz/Cocktail Tours

River Boat Tours

Book your tour now, book by phone: (708) 488-6343, about the tours, chicago river boat architecture tours .

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.

About The Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours

Chicago is known around the world for its architectural feats, both inside and outside of the buildings. From the 100-year-old Art Deco, Neo-Classical, and Gothic Towers, to some of the tallest modern-day skyscrapers, Chicago is where old meets futuristic architectural endeavors. It has something for everyone in a way that no other city replicates today.

Why Tour Chicago’s Architecture with Us?

We are born-and-raised Chicagoans ourselves, passionate about the community that we know and love. That passion and desire spills into all of our tours, drawing on personal experiences for curating a tour that just can’t be duplicated by a book or a movie. We want you to experience everything firsthand. Why tour with us?

  • Expertise: All of our tour guides are either architects, architecture students, or architecture historians, making for an in-depth and personally rooted kind of touring experience that covers all of the discreet details.
  • Variety: We offer a variety of uniquely different tours that cover everyone’s individual taste. We offer the Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour that takes you down the famous Chicago River; there are several different options such as Architecture, History, Cocktail Cruises and Firework Viewing Tours
  • Flexibility : We want you to enjoy your Chicago River Boat touring experience, which is why we’re happy to talk with you and learn more about how our tours can accommodate you, your party, or your corporate outing. Our tours run daily, with availability always posted on our website here.

Our Tours  

  • Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour : When in Chicago, cruising down the Chicago River is  a must. Except with us, you’ll be taking in the architecture of the buildings that line the beautiful river. We provide detailed explanations of the construction and history of over 50 significant buildings, wrapping up at the end of the river.
  • Chicago River Boat Cocktail Tour : Join us for this great Architecture Tour while sipping craft cocktails, beer or wine available for purchase at our bar on board!
  • Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruise :  Fireworks, one of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China were invented in the 12th century. Chicago approved City-Wide Use of Fireworks on the 4th of July 1893,. Mayor of Chicago Patrick Eugene Prendergast issued a proclamation approving the use of fireworks to celebrate the World’s Colombian Exposition and to celebrate the nation’s 117th Independence Day. This fascination with fireworks, noise, and color continues today. The City of Chicago offers a fireworks show at Navy Pier on Saturday nights at 10:15 p.m. The Fireworks Cruise sails on both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan each Saturday at 8:30 pm.

Our Commitment to Your Touring Experience

We believe that tours should be entertaining, enlightening, informational, and perfectly organized, every single time. A tour shouldn’t feel laborious in any way; you should feel an effortless inclination to learn more about what we present at your fingertips. With our Chicago architectural tours, that’s exactly what we strive to provide, basing each tour from the perspective of an expert with the real-life example in the background.

If you’re thinking about booking a tour with us, know that our commitment to flexibility and accessible makes our Chicago Architecture Tours easy and convenient:

  • 3 pm *Not Available Friday thru Sunday Summer Months*
  • 6:30 pm (Jazz Band, Cocktail w/bar) *Sunday Only*
  • 8 pm (Wednesdays)
  • 8:30 pm (Saturdays)
  • Seniors $48
  • Youths $30 (7-12 years old)
  • Children 6 and under Free

BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY

Click Here to Purchase a Gift Certificate

Chicago river boat cocktail tour.

chicago u boat tour

Join us in the evening to sip cocktails while cruising the historic Chicago River! Get the same tour just with a cocktail in your hand! Premium bar on board with craft cocktails, wine and beer available for purchase. Drinks may be purchased individually with a credit card on the boat. Tour Information Pricing Adults $49… Continue reading Chicago River Boat Cocktail Tour

Share this:

Chicago river boat architectural tour.

chicago u boat tour

Forming a length of 156 miles when combined, the Chicago River is a system of rivers and canals the characterize the infamous skyline of Chicago today. The river, running through the city, including the city center Chicago Loop, is evident of man made design and infrastructure when completed craftily. In 1887, the river was reversed… Continue reading Chicago River Boat Architectural Tour

Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruises (w/ Architecture Tour)

chicago u boat tour

Enjoy your favorite drink while gazing Chicago’s magnificent architecture and finish your cruise with fabulous light show, at Navy Pier. Fireworks, one of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China were invented in the 12th century. Chicago approved City-Wide Use of Fireworks on the 4th of July 1893,. Mayor of Chicago Patrick Eugene Prendergast issued… Continue reading Lake Michigan Navy Pier Fireworks Cruises (w/ Architecture Tour)

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best of Chicago for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy Chicago without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

  • Things to Do
  • Food & Drink
  • Time Out Market
  • Coca-Cola Foodmarks
  • Attractions
  • Los Angeles

chicago boat tours

The 15 best boat tours in Chicago

See the skyline from dazzling new vantage points aboard one of the best boat tours in Chicago

Emma Krupp

Step up your sightseeing game by taking things further than street-level with these top boat tours in Chicago. Swap a walk along Michigan Avenue and State Street with a relaxed ride across the water, where there's no chance of taking a wrong turn.  Both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan offer unparalleled vantage points for taking in the city’s world-famous architecture and the  breathtaking Chicago skyline .

From architecture tours and history lessons to straight-up  sightseeing affairs , romantic sunset excursions and pirate-themed family fun, there's a Chicago cruise for every groove. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 Find more to explore with the best things to do in Chicago 🏨 Plan your trip with the  best hotels in Chicago 🍹 See more views from the best rooftop bars in Chicago

How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favorites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links – these have no influence on our editorial content – we pinky swear. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best Chicago boat tours

1.  1.5-hour guided architecture river cruise.

1.5-Hour Guided Architecture River Cruise

Best for  panoramic views 

Departing from Navy Pier's Polk Bros Park or the northeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, this 60-minute trip packs in all of the architectural sights that visitors want to see. Tour guides highlight more than 40 towering Chicago landmarks, including the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City (a.k.a. "The Corncobs" or " The Wilco Building "). 

Don't miss:  Locally sourced food and drink from the boat bar.  

2.  Seadog River and Lake Architectural Tour

Seadog River and Lake Architectural Tour

Best for  design geeks

There are few more iconic Chicago sights than seeing the bright yellow Seadog speeding around town. Combining speed and sightseeing, Seadog’s architecture tour whizzes guests past the likes of the Willis Tower and Lyric Opera, all while arming you with an impressive load of facts about the Windy City. And after this blustery 75-minute Chicago River cruise has finished traversing the waters, it ends with a thrilling whizz across Lake Michigan, past Museum Campus, and Grant Park. This one departs from Seadog’s dock at Navy Pier throughout the summer months.

Don't miss:  Local beer, spirits and Garrett's Popcorn at the boat bar.

3.  Wendella: Chicago's Original Family-Friendly Architecture Tour

Wendella: Chicago's Original Family-Friendly Architecture Tour

Best for families

If you're weighing your options, Wendella's architecture tour (which it claims is Chicago's original ) is another way to explore all of the beautiful structures that line the river. Over the course of the 90-minute tour, you'll navigate all three branches of the Chicago River, while your guide fills you in on the stories behind some of the skyline's most prominent edifices. This tour departs from the Wendella Dock, located at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at the foot of the Wrigley Building.

Don't miss: Live commentary from the tour guide, with material to entertain the whole family. 

4.  1.5-Hour Romantic Sunset Cruise

1.5-Hour Romantic Sunset Cruise

Best for a romantic cruise

How do you end the perfect day of sightseeing? With the perfect sunset, obvs. Setting off from Wendella Dock (at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at the foot of the Wrigley Building), this 90-minute cruise will breeze along Lake Michigan as the glint of the sun on Chicago's skyscrapers is replaced by twinkling city lights. 

Don't miss: Toasting to the end of the day with wine, local beer and hand-crafted cocktails.

5.  Tall Ship Windy Architecture & Skyline Sailing Tour

Tall Ship Windy Architecture & Skyline Sailing Tour

Best for an informative sailing trip

Let the wind carry you to stunning views of the city from aboard the Tall Ship Windy, a four-masted, 148-foot topsail schooner. The 75-minute trip cruise brings guests on a scenic route running along the Lake Michigan shoreline, where you can take in lovely skyline vistas and glimpses of the sunset. Head to the onboard bar to find snacks and drinks for sale. 

Don't miss:  Bring the kids for the special pirate-themed cruise, featuring  tales of swashbuckling  on the Great Lakes.  

6.  Seadog Speedboat Tour

Seadog Speedboat Tour

Best for adrenaline junkies

If you balk at the idea of traipsing around museums and galleries all day with just your legs for locomotion, this whistle-stop boat ride is the tour for you. See every worthy Chicago landmark in 30 minutes on Seadog’s speedboat, which can sometimes feel like a floating rollercoaster. Launching from Navy Pier, the captain will efficiently guide you (with a running commentary) around Lake Michigan, past Museum Campus, Magnificent Mile, Grant Park, and more.

Don't miss: Upgrade to the Extreme Thrill Ride, which includes full 360° spins and more. 

7.  Lake Michigan Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

Lake Michigan Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

Best for skyline views

Want to see Chicago from the water but don't have much time to spare? You can peep the skyline in just 30 minutes on Shoreline's Classic Lake Tour, which departs from Navy Pier and boasts some of the best views you'll find on Lake Michigan. The commentary on this Chicago architecture tour is pre-recorded, so you won't miss out on any information because your guide ran out of time (and if you've heard it before, you can sit back and enjoy those sweet, sweet sights).

Don't miss: Proceeding straight to the boarding line with a barcode that lets you skip the ticket office. 

8.  Lake Michigan Gourmet Dinner Cruise

Lake Michigan Gourmet Dinner Cruise

Best for dinner and dining  

Enjoy a three-course gourmet dinner on the water in the Odyssey Chicago, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the skyline surrounding you. Departing from Navy Pier, this cruise includes a dinner with freshly prepared entrées, mains, and desserts. The 2.5 or 3-hour ride takes you around Lake Michigan, with a cash bar to keep the drinks flowing throughout your meal.

Don't miss: The live DJ set and unlimited tea and coffee.

https://media.timeout.com/images/106037667/image.jpg

9.  Chicago's Lake Michigan Kayak Tour

Chicago's Lake Michigan Kayak Tour

Best for the outdoorsy type

If you want to couple a workout with your sightseeing, consider touring Lake Michigan by kayak. The rental lasts one hour and if you've never kayaked before, don't worry – tandem kayaks are available for less experienced guests. The meeting point is at Ohio Street Beach and you'll be provided with a life jacket on arrival before paddling out onto Chicago's most incredible river view.

Don't miss: Take a break along the urban beachfront, with the chance to also rent stand-up paddle boards.  

10.  Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch Cruise

Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch Cruise

Best for brunching - as long as you don't get sea sick that is.

If you're looking for dinner with a view, you could do worse than watching the sunset against the skyline aboard this 2.5 or 3-hour Lake Michigan brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise. Grab a group of friends and book a table – ideally one with a window-facing view—for a buffet-style meal before making your way to the dancefloor for an evening of DJ-curated music. Unlimited coffee, tea, and water will be on hand.

Don't miss: Creative signature cocktails at the bar. 

11.  Lake Michigan Odyssey Gourmet Lunch Cruise

Lake Michigan Odyssey Gourmet Lunch Cruise

Best for a cute date night 

Why settle for lunch at a land-bound restaurant when you could eat your meal on Lake Michigan? The Odyssey's lunch cruise includes a three-course meal and all the coffee, hot tea, iced tea and water you can drink. Visit the cash bar to buy wine, beer and cocktails and enjoy the views on this two-hour tour.

Don't miss: Dance on the top deck to tunes played out by the onboard DJ. 

12.  Lady Grebe Chicago River Experience

Lady Grebe Chicago River Experience

Best for small groups

Want to feel extra posh? Grab a group of up to six friends and book a private cruise aboard Lady Grebe, a 48-foot vintage yacht that can be reserved for two-hour trips along the Chicago River. The reservation comes with a premium drinks package and you can also opt to kick things up a notch with picnic baskets full of food or full-service catering. 

Don't miss:  Book a Chicago Architecture Center docent to give a guided tour for an educational twist.

13.  Chicago Electric Boat Company Tour

Chicago Electric Boat Company Tour

Best for a casual cruise 

Go your own way. Be your own captain. That’s what’s on offer with this Chicago River tour. The Chicago Electric Boat Company lets passengers steer the ship themselves (if they’ve got a valid driver’s license and watched a 10-minute tutorial, that is), allowing total freedom on the Windy City’s waterways. If you’re looking to still have some kind of tour, you can hire a personal tour guide—and we haven’t even gotten to the best bit. These boats are all electric, so they’re a little bit more environmentally friendly, too.

Don't miss: Hot tub boat rentals are also available.

14.  Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise Aboard Chicago’s First Lady

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise Aboard Chicago’s First Lady

Best for an iconic vessel

There's a reason the Chicago Architecture Foundation's beloved tour has been named the Best Boat Tour in the U.S.  The center’s official tour goes into detail on more than 50 buildings both on the riverfront and beyond. In doing so, they give a fascinating history of the city and those that built it—plus you can easily upgrade your ticket to include entry to just Chicago Architecture Center itself. It’s a proper design enthusiast’s dream. This one leaves from the Chicago First Lady Cruises dock and lasts around 90 minutes. 

Don't miss:  Gather friends for the serene evening cruise for just a few dollars more.

GYG Chicago TTD

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

  • Press office
  • Investor relations
  • Work for Time Out
  • Editorial guidelines
  • Privacy notice
  • Do not sell my information
  • Cookie policy
  • Accessibility statement
  • Terms of use
  • Copyright agent
  • Modern slavery statement
  • Manage cookies
  • Advertising

Time Out products

  • Time Out Worldwide

Time Out magazine

  • Buy Tickets
  • Architecture Boat Tours
  • Private Events
  • Get Directions

COVID-19 SAILING PROTOCOL >

Chicago line cruises, chicago boat tours, discover world-famous architecture from chicago’s best vantage point., chicago river architecture tour.

Cruise down the Chicago River for 90 minutes as you listen to our expert guides discuss the history, impact and legacy of Chicago's renowned architecture.

Where to Find Us

Our boats are docked on the slip of water off the Chicago River called Odgen Slip. Click here for directions.

Ticket office and boarding: 465 N. McClurg Court Chicago, IL 60611

For help with directions, call us at 312-527-2002.

chicago u boat tour

Bar Service & Merchandise

chicago u boat tour

Complimentary

Starbucks Coffee, Twinings Tea, Coca-Cola soft drinks and lemonade are all complimentary.

chicago u boat tour

BEER, WINE & COCKTAILS

Beer, wine and cocktails are available for purchase at any time.

chicago u boat tour

MERCHANDISE

Never forget your onboard experience on your Chicago Line cruise. Be sure to purchase one of our stylish souvenirs today!

See How Guests Are Enjoying Our Tours on Instagram

Chicago Line Cruises

chicagolinecruises

Celebrating Chicago by Boat since 1981 with River Architecture Tours | Private Boat Cruises #chicagolinecruises

chicago u boat tour

This is my 8th time on a Chicago architectural river cruise and this was by far the most informative and biggest bang for your buck. Operagolf / LaHabra
The best guide on our whole USA trip. We took the Architecture tour where the boat meandered in between all of the incredible buildings of the city with the guide knowing EVERYTHING about each building; its style, age, height, architect, cost, purpose, owner ….. Quite brilliant! DrCumbrian / TripAdvisor
I've done several of the architecture cruises since my family moved to Chicago, and this is the best one yet! Allie K / TripAdvisor
If you only have time for one sight-seeing event while in Chicago, do this. We really have no great interest in architecture, but this tour came highly recommended and we did not regret it. Allice I / Oklahoma
My wife and I very much enjoyed the Chicago Line Cruise jazz cruise... My spouse said this was one of the favorite things she has done in Chicago since moving here in the past year, and I agree. I am a jazz snob, and ... I was very pleased with the music offered by the Geordie Kelly group. He's a fine jazz guitarist, and his band was great. Augie R / Yelp

Privacy Preference Center

Privacy preferences.

Chicago River Architecture Tour

Chicago's Original Architecture Tour®

Experience the city’s legendary architecture from the best seat in the house—the river. Our experienced tour guides detail the 130 year long history behind the skyline, while our bartenders and staff keep you comfortable and entertained. This comprehensive tour navigates through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River. It’s the one thing everyone tells you to do in Chicago, done right.

chicago u boat tour

Schedule & Tickets

  • Adult: $44.00
  • Child (4-12): $20.00
  • Under 4: Free (ticket required)

TICKETS ARE NON REFUNDABLE BUT ARE TRANSFERABLE.

  • Parking & Directions
  • More Information
  • Boarding begins 15-30 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.
  • All bags are subject to inspection.
  • Prohibited Items: Outside Alcohol, Weapons of any kind (Firearms, Knives, etc.), Flammables, Explosives.

Your boat includes:

Drinks & Snacks

Full-service bar with wine, local beer, and craft cocktails, as well as an assortment of snacks, all for purchase. Pinkies up!

Expert Tour Guide

Never boring, always entertaining.

Accessibility

Everyone should be able to enjoy our tours. We make sure you can.

No need to hold it. We have changing tables for the little ones who don’t know what holding it is.

Climate-Controlled Lounge

Keeping you cool when it's warm and warm when it's cool (or freezing).

*Not all amenities are available on every vessel.

BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE NOW

chicago u boat tour

chicago u boat tour

Private Events

  • Accessibility
  • Terms Of Use
  • Privacy Policy

NASCAR parking restrictions and street closures are in effect through July 15. Click here for more information .

Architecture Tour

TripAdvisor users rank the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady as the city's #1 boat tour.

There’s one sure recipe to make your business or social event even more memorable – just add water and Chicago’s First Lady!

Recalling the handsome elegance of 20th century luxury yachts, our vessels are sure to make an impression. Choose from seven perfectly sized ships for your private event.

Your wedding is the start of your lifelong journey together, so begin that journey in a truly memorable way - a wedding cruise down the Chicago River.

Evening River Cruise

Experience our renowned daytime CAC River Cruise in the glow of the setting sun. Take in the city’s magnificent architecture bathed in golden light as it begins its transition from day to night.

chicago u boat tour

“The very best city tour I have been on in my life! We were in America for a month and this was our best morning.” - JurassicBill TripAdvisor, Dorset UK

- Latest Articles -

chicago u boat tour

Chicago’s Hidden Gems

Planning a weekend getaway in Chicago? Here are the must-sees and the can’t-misses of the Windy City…

chicago u boat tour

Chicago in a Weekend

chicago u boat tour

2024 James Beard Awards Recognizes Chicago Restaurants

After sampling the delicious food of the Windy City’s restaurant scene, head to Chicago’s First Lady…

See Our Full Blog

Home

"What an amazing experience, this tour brings all the beautiful architecture and history to life.” - Rachel M Yelp, Arizona, USA

Book a tour

To view a schedule, select a tour below.

  • Architecture River Tour

Enjoy the spectacular views as you listen to our tour guides tell you how Chicago’s buildings, architecture, and engineering made the city famous. Learn more

Wheelchair accessible from Navy Pier dock only

Adults starting at

Skyline Lake Cruise

Head out on a majestic boat tour of Lake Michigan where you’ll be able to see Chicago’s renowned skyscrapers and landmarks. Learn more

Spanish Architecture River Tour

Enjoy the classic Architecture River Tour entirely in Spanish as you learn about Chicago’s buildings, architecture, and engineering that made the city famous. Learn more

Save 48% on an Architecture River Tour, plus 4 more top Chicago attractions: Skydeck, Field Museum, and your choice of 2: 360 CHICAGO, MSI, Art Institute, Adler Planetarium. Visit the attractions at your own pace, in any order, over 9-days.  Learn more

Water Taxi Day Pass

Travel around town in a fun, scenic way. This day pass allows you to hop on and off the water taxi at any of our conveniently located docks: Union Station, Michigan Ave, Navy Pier, and Shedd Aquarium/Museum Campus. Learn more

Valid for 24 hours

  • Fireworks Tour

Get a front-row seat to the Navy Pier fireworks on Wednesday and Saturday evenings in the summer. You can take our Architecture River or Skyline Lake tours and end with fireworks, or take just the Fireworks Tour on its own. Learn more

60 – 80 minutes

– Not in season –

Now in its 83rd season, Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis.

(312) 222-9328 ext. 1 [email protected]

  • Skyline Tour
  • Water Taxis
  • Buy Tickets
  • Accessibility Info

Protect Your Trip »

The 7 best chicago boat tours of 2024: river & lake cruises.

Enjoy architectural boat tours, kayak excursions, speedboat rides and more.

chicago u boat tour

Best Chicago Boat Tours

Tall Ship Windy.

Courtesy of Tall Ship Windy

If you're hoping to see as much of Chicago as you can in a short amount of time, you may want to sign up for a boat tour. During each tour, you'll learn the historical significance of the skyline's iconic buildings while enjoying breathtaking views of the Windy City. Considering traveler reviews and expert opinion, U.S. News selected the best Chicago boat tours, ranging from an architectural boat tour on the river to a thrilling speedboat ride on Lake Michigan.

Editor’s Pick: Wendella Boats – Chicago River Architecture Tour

Price: Adults from $44; kids from $20 Duration: 1.5 hours

U.S. News independently paid to send Cortney Fries , an award-winning writer based in Chicago, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. The Wendella Boats Chicago River Architecture Tour was selected by our team as an Editor’s Pick thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews.

Cruise three branches of the Chicago River as you take in views of famous Chicago landmarks, such as the Willis Tower and Merchandise Mart. A knowledgeable guide provides an overview of the architecture and interesting lessons in Chicago history along the way. For instance, did you know that the Lyric Opera House was built in the shape of a giant throne, or that the Chicago River is the only natural river reversed by humankind? Learn about: the four stars on the Chicago flag and what they represent, the legend of the O’Leary cow starting the Great Chicago Fire, the statue atop the Chicago Board of Trade and Chicago’s famous drawbridges.

Refreshments and snacks are sold on board. Sit on the top deck to listen to the live tour with unobstructed views, but bring a jacket or sun hat if it’s cool or sunny. Climate-controlled seating is offered below, as are restrooms. Tours are generally available daily beginning at 9:30 a.m., with multiple departures throughout the day and evening. If you’re short on time or traveling with kids, the 45-minute version of this architecture tour may be your best option.

Chicago River Architecture Cruise

Cortney Fries

Why we love it:

  • The Chicago River Architecture Tour is one of the best ways to learn about and explore Chicago sans crowds. 
  • Guides are engaging, informative and also provide ideas for other places to visit during your trip. 
  • Tours depart from Michigan Avenue near the Wrigley Building, where there are plenty of shopping and dining options nearby. Arrive early so you can enjoy the area and give yourself enough time to find parking.

– Cortney Fries

Check prices & availability on:

Tall Ship Windy – Chicago Skyline Sail

Price: Adults from $49; kids from $39 Duration: 75 minutes

Tall Ship Windy's Chicago Skyline Sail introduces you to the beauty and splendor of Chicago's world-famous buildings aboard the company's four-masted schooner. On the sightseeing tour, you'll learn interesting facts about the history of this renowned waterfront and its skyline, as well as the people who built it. Travelers love the experience, describing the crew and the schooner as incredible. They recommend booking one of the sunset sails for photo-worthy views.

Tours depart from Navy Pier daily from May through September at 1, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. Note that the 1 p.m. sail is all about the history of piracy in the area. Tall Ship Windy also offers nighttime cruises on select days to correspond with Navy Pier's seasonal Fireworks at the Pier show.

Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise

Price: Adults from $54; kids from $24 Duration: 1.5 hours

Hop aboard Chicago's First Lady for a tour of the Windy City's spectacular skyline. With one of the Chicago Architecture Center's volunteer docents guiding your trip, you'll learn the architectural and cultural history of more than 50 of Chicago's iconic buildings. Boats are equipped with open-air upper decks, climate-controlled lower cabins, full-service bars and restrooms. Travelers say this architectural boat tour is not to be missed and describe it as a family-friendly experience with spectacular views. They also rave about the insightful, entertaining tour guides who provide a wealth of information.

Cruises generally depart daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., though exact times may vary by day. For an additional $5, you can gain access to the Chicago Architecture Center (which saves you $9 on center admission).

Best Chicago Boat Tours

Getty Images

City Experiences by Hornblower – Chicago Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour

Price: Adults from $35; children from $25 Duration: 30 minutes

This speedboat tour departs from popular Navy Pier, taking travelers on a fast-paced, 30-minute ride along Lake Michigan's shores. During the cruise, an expert guide will share the history of Chicago and the landmarks that created its iconic skyline. Along with the entertaining commentary, you'll enjoy photo-worthy views of lakefront attractions. Reviewers rave about the tour, saying that the views are superb and the speedboat makes for a thrilling ride.

The tour, which operates from March through October or early November, departs hourly every day starting as early as 11 a.m.; exact departure times vary by day. Keep in mind that the tour is not recommended for pregnant women or people with neck or back injuries. Prefer a more low-key ride? The company also offers brunch, lunch and dinner cruises on larger vessels, along with architectural boat tours.

Urban Kayaks – Historic Chicago Tour

Price: Singles from $65; tandems from $130 Duration: 2 hours

Travelers angling for an active way to see the Chicago River should book this guided kayak outing. You'll learn about Chicago's contemporary urban landscape – and the historical significance of many of its buildings – while you paddle alongside an expert guide. What's more, the tour is suitable for novice and experienced kayakers alike. According to the company, you should expect to get wet and will want to dress accordingly. Reviewers enjoy seeing the city from their kayaks and say you'll pass beautiful and romantic views along the way. They also appreciate the attentive, friendly guides.

Tours are available daily at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. from May through September. If you'd rather paddle the lake, consider renting a kayak from the company or signing up for its paddleboarding class.

Shoreline Sightseeing – Skyline Lake Tour

Price: Adults from $30; kids from $12 Duration: 30 minutes

Sit back, relax and take in the dramatic scenery of the Chicago skyline with this tour of Lake Michigan. The prerecorded narration will help you learn about Chicago's most famous buildings, such as the Willis Tower, and how they came to life. Along the short cruise, you'll have just enough time to take in the views and enjoy a drink or snack from the bar. Visitors love the tour for the views and history lesson, though some complain it was difficult to hear the narration from the back of the boat. They also advise future riders to bring a jacket because it gets cold on the water.

Tours depart daily in the spring, summer and early fall multiple times a day, weather permitting. Shoreline Sightseeing also offers architecture tours on the Chicago River.

Best Chicago Boat Tours

Tours & Boats – 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

Price: Adults from $49; kids from $25 Duration: 1.5 hours

Tour-takers say this boat ride is entertaining and educational thanks to the informed guides. You'll see Chicago's many famous buildings up close as guides tell stories of the city's history. Plus, the tour takes you to the locks on the river's main branch, Chinatown in the south and Goose Island in the north.

Cruise departures vary by month and day. Boats depart from River City Marina, which is about a mile west of Grant Park. For several reviewers, the boat's departure point was another reason to book with Tours & Boats as it offers better parking options than some of the other river cruise companies in the city. Tours & Boats also operates private tours.

You may also be interested in:

  • The Best Chicago Tours
  • The Best Chicago Walking Tours
  • The Best Chicago Segway Tours
  • Best Hotels in Chicago
  • Best Things to Do in Chicago

Tags: Tours , Chicago , Travel , Vacations , Illinois Vacations , US Vacations , Midwest Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

All-inclusive family resorts in mexico.

Sharael Kolberg Sept. 20, 2024

chicago u boat tour

The Best Pearl Harbor Tours

Amanda Norcross Sept. 19, 2024

chicago u boat tour

Top All-Inclusive Cancun Family Resorts

Amanda Norcross Sept. 18, 2024

chicago u boat tour

The Best Stonehenge Tours

Kim Foley MacKinnon and Ann Henson Sept. 18, 2024

chicago u boat tour

Best Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson Sept. 17, 2024

chicago u boat tour

The Best Eiffel Tower Tours

Kristy Alpert Sept. 17, 2024

chicago u boat tour

Fun Things to Do in Ohio

Gwen Pratesi and Heather Rader Sept. 17, 2024

chicago u boat tour

The Top River Cruise Lines

Nicola Wood and Brittany Chrusciel Sept. 17, 2024

chicago u boat tour

The 27 Most Haunted Hotels in America

Alissa Grisler Sept. 16, 2024

chicago u boat tour

Top Indoor Water Park Resorts

Holly Johnson and Amanda Norcross Sept. 16, 2024

chicago u boat tour

Tours & Boats uses cookies to give you the best possible service. If you continue browsing, you agree to our use of cookies. More details can be found in our terms and conditions .

  • [email protected]
  • 312-858-6955
  • Open Instagram account in a new tab.
  • Open Facebook account in a new tab.
  • Open Tripadvisor account in a new tab.

Chicago’s Best 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

chicago u boat tour

Behold the architecture that makes the city of Chicago famous! On our 90-minute boat charter, your tour guide will teach you about the monuments that have survived the years. Get to know the Windy City from the water and admire the extraordinary vistas as we cruise gently along.

Click the tabs to find out more

Trip details.

  • Good To Know

Key Information

Price per person.

Seniors (ages 55+), Military, Veterans, COVID-19 Healthcare Workers, and First Responders: $25.00 Students (ages 4 to 17): $25.00 Children (ages 3 and under): Free, but needs a registered ticket

Groups of 10 or more adults: Please see our group cruises and tours page to learn more about discounts.

Departure time

Exact departure times can be found on our ticket page . Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

Ticketed passengers must be boarded 10 minutes before departure time , as standby boarding starts 10 minutes before scheduled departure. Ticketed passengers who arrive late will be placed at the end of the standby line. There are no refunds for those who arrive late.

Meeting point

“Summer of George” docked at River City Marina 900 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607 Upon Arrival, follow these directions .

We typically operate from May to October. However, please check our calendar for exact availability.

Discover Chicago’s Architecture From A New Angle

Chicago river tour.

Our 90-minute boat tour on the Chicago River is our most popular choice! This tour goes in depth into the history of the Windy City’s architecture. We’ll pass by well-known structures like the Wrigley Building —a terra-cotta building inspired by the Seville Cathedral’s bell tower —as well as modern additions like Trump Tower. Even if you’re not an architecture buff, you’ll enjoy learning about how Chicago’s construction goes hand in hand with its history. Enjoy commentary by our expert guides and discover the buildings that make up the famous skyline . We’re excited to take you on a journey through Chicago’s past.

Enjoy our 90-minute architecture boat ride that will start at our docking location and take you to all 3 parts of the river. We begin at the “Summer of George” docks, travel the main branch up to the river locks, via the north branch to Goose Island, and down the south branch to Chinatown before returning to the starting point.

Other Important Information

  • All guests including children and babies need a ticket to board.
  • All tickets are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled.
  • All event tickets are general admission, and there is no assigned seating .
  • Please arrive early if you’d like to be seated with your group.
  • Our tours operate rain or shine so please do not contact us to inquire if the tour will be canceled. Unless you receive a cancellation email from us, please assume the tour will go on as scheduled. In the event of rain, you may bring a poncho or an umbrella. There is also an interior deck on the boat.
  • Due to unforeseen circumstances, a tour may get canceled. In the event of a cancellation, we will provide you with a credit for a future tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our dock is located at the River City Marina at 900 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607 . To get here, guests need to head south on Wells Street and enter through the parking lot behind the River City condominium building. The parking lot is located across from the soccer field on 9th Street and Wells. Please note that you do NOT need to go into the building to find us. Once you arrive, we will complete your registration in the parking lot before embarking. Please note that the cruise starts and finishes at this location.

One of the perks of booking an architecture boat cruise with Tours & Boats is that parking is relatively easy to find! There is a parking lot located at the marina , and it costs around $10 . For more information, please see our detailed guide here . However, please note that it is possible for the parking lot to fill up early, and we are not responsible in the event that you are unable to find a spot . For this reason, we recommend arriving early so that you can find alternate parking, should the need arise.

If the date you want is not listed on the calendar, this means our boat is reserved for a private event. However, we do sometimes add new cruise dates or times if an opening becomes available, so please check back often.

Yes. Even though children age 3 and under are free, you need to register them for a ticket. This is because the Coast Guard counts all human passengers on the boat.

Please see our other FAQs for more information.

See what our guests are saying.

We had a great time on this tour. The captain had a great sense of humor and the tour guide was very knowledgeable. She not only talked about the architecture of the building style but had some great history and facts about them as well. We were even able to enjoy this with our toddler along for the ride! Would highly recommend for adults and families of all ages!

We had a great informational time on the tour. So many buildings, so little time! Even at 90 minutes the tour seemed to fly by. Our guide, Sean, did a great job keeping the same pace as the boat describing each building in great detail, builders, architects, year, styles, and revisions.

If you only have time for 1 thing to do while you are in Chicago, the architectural boat tour is it! So educational, pleasant and interesting. I really enjoyed it. The guide was incredible with the amount of knowledge he had of the buildings and the city and he weaved it into really engaging stories.

c8810c29-35cd-4002-93f1-b1c7428ed4c5

Tours & Attractions

Chicago seadog haunted river tour.

  • Share this post:

Step aboard our Seadog Haunted Tours for a fun-filled journey through Chicago’s history of ghosts, spirits, scandals, and sins. As you cruise along the Chicago River, our expert docents weave a delightful a touch of humor into the exploration of the Windy City’s darker side. Prepare to be enchanted by tales of supernatural occurrences and infamous figures, all while enjoying the stunning views of Chicago’s architectural skyline. Join us for an unforgettable, spooktacular adventure as we uncover the hidden secrets of Chicago’s past.

Return to events calendar

Recurring weekly on Sunday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday until Friday October 31, 2025

bean-night

Explore hotels, flights, deals, and more

Plan your trip.

CTA Newsletter

Chicago Newsletter

Stay in the know.

visitors_guide_2024_cover

Visitors Guide

Start planning today.

Get the guide

Your Favorites

Quick access links.

NBC Chicago

Remembering the infamous Dave Matthews Band tour bus incident, 20 years later

More than 800 pounds of waste were dumped on a passing boat as a bus went over the kinzie street bridge, by lexi sutter • published august 7, 2024 • updated on august 8, 2024 at 6:43 am.

Thursday marks the 20 th anniversary of an unfortunate incident that happened only in Chicago when the driver of the Dave Matthews Band's tour bus dumped hundreds of pounds of human waste on a passing boat.

There’s a sticker on the Kinzie Street Bridge that’s a reminder of the messy mistake made on Aug. 8, 2004. Dozens of people aboard Chicago’s Little Lady were crossing under the bridge when the driver of a Dave Matthews Band tour bus dumped 800 pounds of human waste.

📺 24/7 Chicago news stream: Watch NBC 5 free wherever you are

The incident never should have happened, but the timing was especially terrible.

“I didn’t even have time to think, or react, my gag reflex just kicked in and I started throwing up,” said Lynn LaPlante .

LaPlante was not on the cruise but driving with her husband a few blocks behind the bus. Making matters worse, LaPlante was pregnant and extremely nauseous.

“All of the sudden it was like driving into a brick wall of smell. I don’t know how else to put it,” she said. “We didn’t see anything visually but when we got out of the car it was all along the side of our car and in the wheel wells, just like raw sewage, just covered.”

chicago u boat tour

Illinois DMV facilities change hours starting Monday. Here's what to know

chicago u boat tour

Mass shooting at prayer vigil leaves 1 dead, 6 injured

The band’s bus driver eventually admitted to the dumping and was prosecuted. Though the musicians weren’t on the bus, they did try to right the wrong by giving $50,000 to the Chicago Park District and $50,000 to Friends of the Chicago River.

“It contributed to us being able to do the work to do to help people think about the river differently,” Friends of the Chicago River Executive Director Margaret Frisbie said. “There is nothing good that came out of that event because what happened to those people on the boat and is still scarring all these years later.”

Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly Chicago Catch-Up newsletter .

Several aboard Chicago’s First Lady cruises filed lawsuits because of the horror they experienced. The company isn’t commenting publicly out of respect for those people but did offer this statement:

“Our companies have provided acclaimed experiences on Chicago’s waterways for more than 87 years, and we choose to not let what took place that day diminish our contributions in showcasing the city we love with the world.”

As for Lynn, it’s a memory she laughs about. Even now, twenty years later.

“ We’re very divided right now. There’s not a lot we can agree on, it seems I think everyone can agree this is just a weird, funny, hilarious only in Chicago story.”

This article tagged under:

chicago u boat tour

  • TV & Film
  • Say Maaate to a Mate
  • First Impressions - The Game
  • Daily Ladness
  • Citizen Reef

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories , we're happy to send you some reminders

Click ' OK ' then ' Allow ' to enable notifications

Iconic band had to pay huge fine after dumping 800 pounds of human waste onto tourists

Iconic band had to pay huge fine after dumping 800 pounds of human waste onto tourists

Talk about bad timing.

Brenna Cooper

Brenna Cooper

An iconic US rock band once found themselves facing a massive fine after their tour bus dumped 800 pounds of human waste onto tourists.

Picture this, it's a warm summer's day in the US city of Chicago and you've decided to spend the afternoon cruising along the Chicago river, taking in the sights and sounds of the city on the top deck of a sightseeing boat.

Sounds like a lovely afternoon right?

Unfortunately for the passengers onboard the Chicago's Little Lady sightseeing boat, their trip ended up being a pretty, er s****y time.

The Kinzie bridge in Chicago (Tim Boyle/Getty Images)

On 8 August 2004, the sightseeing boat was talking a group of 120 passengers down the river, courtesy of the Chicago Architecture Centre, to see the buildings along the waterfront - a pretty routine route for the warmer months.

However as Chicago's Little Lady passed under the Kinzie Street Bridge in the city's downtown, they found themselves living through a a textbook example of the phrase 'talk about bad timing'.

The boat's passage under the bridge coincided with the same moment that a tour bus belonging to the Dave Matthews Band passed overhead.

That afternoon, the bus was being driven by Stefan Wohl, who was the only person onboard at the time, driving towards a downtown hotel where the band were staying at the time.

As the bus passed over the bridge, Wohl emptied the bus's waste tank at the very same moment the boat was sailing underneath.

The Dave Matthews Band performing live in 2023 (Taylor Hill/Getty Images for ABA)

Now this wouldn't be an issue with most bridges, however, the Kinzie featured riveted grating, which allowed for rain and snow to pass through the bridge and minimising the risk of slippage.

Therefore when the boat passed under the bridge, the contents of the tour bus's waste tank fell onto the passengers on the top viewing deck.

It's reported that around 800 pounds of waste fell onto two thirds of the people onboard. Passengers included elderly people, children , infants and pregnant women.

The passengers hoping to learn about the architecture of Chicago's downtown were, of course, upset to find themselves doused in 'brownish-yellow sludge' and naturally complained to the tour company, who were swiftly offered refunds while the boat was disinfected.

"The windows were open, it was a beautiful day, and we were driving, and all of a sudden the most deplorable smell hit us," Lynn LaPlante recalled to CBS of the incident. "I think it's become more of a touchstone, like a cultural or iconic Chicago touchstone now. I look at it with humour. I think it's funny."

An investigation into the event, of course, followed, with the band and their management being identified as the owners of the bus, with Wohl ultimately admitting to dumping the waste and received 18 months probation, 150 hours of community service and a $10,000 (£7,535) fine, paid to Friends of Chicago River.

Meanwhile, The Dave Matthews Band, who prosecutors said had cooperated in the investigation, agreed to pay $200,000 to State of Illinois in order to settle their case.

They also paid $50,000 to Chicago Park District and Friends of Chicago River respectively - with executive director, Margaret Frisbie, telling NBC Chicago last month that it 'certainly contributed' to the work they were doing to make people 'think about the river differently'.

A spokesperson for First Lady Cruises told FOX 32: "There is certainly no joy in reliving the 2004 event that traumatized our passengers, crew and family businesses.

"Our companies have provided acclaimed experiences on Chicago’s waterways for more than 87 years, and we choose to not let what took place that day diminish our contributions in showcasing the city we love with the world."

LADbible has contacted the band's representatives and Chicago First Lady Cruises for further comment.

Topics:  Music

Brenna Cooper is a journalist at LADbible. She graduated from the University of Sheffield with a degree in History, followed by an NCTJ accredited masters in Journalism. She began her career as a freelance writer for Digital Spy, where she wrote about all things TV, film and showbiz. Her favourite topics to cover are music, travel and any bizarre pop culture.

@ _brencoco

  • Iconic band Jane's Addiction break silence after lead singer had shocking onstage fight with guitarist
  • People are only just realising how iconic rock band AC/DC got their name
  • Spain, France and Italy tourists given €200 fine warning as summer arrives
  • Huge band have confirmed they will be performing Glastonbury secret set today

Choose your content:

chicago u boat tour

Liam Gallagher responds after viewers made same complaint about his performance before Joshua v Dubois

Liam gallagher had a characteristically blunt three-word response for the haters following his wembley performance.

chicago u boat tour

Truth behind whether Lyle Menendez lost his hair as shown in Netflix Monsters series

The second season, which tells the story of erik and lyle menendez, dropped a few days ago on netflix.

chicago u boat tour

Major question from last episode of Lost finally answered 20 years after show first aired

Lost has recently been added to netflix to baffle a whole new audience.

chicago u boat tour

Netflix viewers urged to watch show after finishing Monsters Menendez brothers series

There's already been a true crime show on this subject.

IMAGES

  1. When Tides Turn U-Boat Tour, Part 1

    chicago u boat tour

  2. When Tides Turn U-Boat Tour, Part 2

    chicago u boat tour

  3. Secrets of the U-505 Submarine in Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry

    chicago u boat tour

  4. Events in Chicago History

    chicago u boat tour

  5. 12 Best Boat Tours in Chicago

    chicago u boat tour

  6. U-Boat in the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago

    chicago u boat tour

VIDEO

  1. U-Boat Flightdeck Chronograph 50mm Automatic Watch Review

  2. Downtown Chicago Boat Tour

  3. Chicago #boat #architecture #tour

  4. Boat Tour Chicago

  5. Chicago Trip VLOG

  6. Chicago Boat Tour 🤩🤩|| Chicago Architecture || Amazing

COMMENTS

  1. U-505 Submarine

    On June 4, 1944, a German submarine was prowling the waters off the West African coast for American and Allied ships. Part of a U-boat fleet terrorizing the Atlantic, this submarine was known as U- 505. But on this day, the U- 505 had just become the hunted. For all ages.

  2. On-board Tour

    The tour lasts about 25 minutes, including a question-and-answer session at the conclusion. Tickets. The U-505 On-board Tour is not included in Museum Entry, and requires a separate, timed-entry ticket. Adult - $18 Child (3-11) - $14. United States military active-duty personnel and veterans receive $4 off U-505 On-Board Tour tickets. See ...

  3. Cruises & Tours in Chicago

    Tall Ship Windy at Navy Pier offers educational boat tours, storytelling, student trips, concert sails, and architectural tours. Enjoy the Chicago skyline aboard our tall ship! ... Take Shoreline's award-winning 75-minute Architecture River Tour to discover Chicago's renowned landmarks as presented by our expert and entertaining guides. You ...

  4. Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour: Guided Chicago River Boat Tours

    About The Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours. Chicago is known around the world for its architectural feats, both inside and outside of the buildings. From the 100-year-old Art Deco, Neo-Classical, and Gothic Towers, to some of the tallest modern-day skyscrapers, Chicago is where old meets futuristic architectural endeavors.

  5. Chicago's Original Architecture Tour®

    Family-owned and operated since 1935, Wendella is Chicago's Original Architecture Tour. Offering the greatest variety of tours and cruises on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, Wendella is the ultimate Chicago experience. ... We were recommended the architecture boat tour by a few locals and it was absolutely amazing!! Beautiful views from ...

  6. Take a tour-German U-505 Submarine U boat Museum of Science and

    Today we go for a tour on a real World War 2 era German submarine. This was filmed at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, Illinois in April, 2016....

  7. The 15 best boat tours in Chicago

    9. Chicago's Lake Michigan Kayak Tour. get your guide. Best for the outdoorsy type. If you want to couple a workout with your sightseeing, consider touring Lake Michigan by kayak. The rental lasts ...

  8. Chicago River Boat Tours & Rides

    Sitemap. 112 E. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601. 847.358.1330. Chicago's First Lady offers various riverboat tours & rides with beautiful sightseeing of Chicago. To explore our tours, contact us & book your tickets today!

  9. Chicago Boat Tours

    Chicago Boat Tours. Discover world-famous architecture from Chicago's best vantage point. Chicago River Architecture Tour. Cruise down the Chicago River for 90 minutes as you listen to our expert guides discuss the history, impact and legacy of Chicago's renowned architecture.

  10. Best Architectural River Cruise Chicago

    Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady . Architecture Adventure Awaits! Explore Chicago's iconic architecture aboard TripAdvisor's #1 rated boat tour of the city. The only Chicago River cruise partnered with the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC), Chicago's First Lady Cruises offers visitors the city's most engaging 90-minute architectural tour experience.

  11. Chicago River Architecture Tour

    90 minutes. Buy Tickets. Chicago's Original Architecture Tour®. Experience the city's legendary architecture from the best seat in the house—the river. Our experienced tour guides detail the 130 year long history behind the skyline, while our bartenders and staff keep you comfortable and entertained. This comprehensive tour navigates ...

  12. Chicago Boat Tours: Find the Best Lake and River Cruises

    Race across Lake Michigan on SeaDog Cruises, featuring 30 minutes of high speeds and exhilarating twists and turns. Come prepared to get splashed. SeaDog also offers lakefront speedboat tours and a river/lake architecture tour, featuring views of Chicago's iconic Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Museum Campus, and more.

  13. CAC River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

    Voted #1 boat tour in the United States by USA Today readers in 2024, as well as Chicago Reader's Best Tour for over 10 years! ... #1 Chicago Boat Tour for 10+ years; 6 best tours and walks in Chicago; Led by the Chicago Architecture Center's expertly trained docent volunteers, this 90-minute cruise reveals fascinating stories behind Chicago's ...

  14. Architecture River Tour

    One easy purchase and mobile ticket delivery saves you time and money. Now in its 83rd season, Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis. On a Chicago Architecture River Tour you'll see over 40 of the city's famous buildings and hear the ...

  15. Best Chicago River, Lake Cruise & Boat Tours

    TripAdvisor users rank the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady as the city's #1 boat tour. Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady Learn More. Private Events. There's one sure recipe to make your business or social event even more memorable - just add water and Chicago's ...

  16. Shoreline Sightseeing Chicago Boat Tours, Architecture Tours

    Now in its 83rd season, Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis. (312) 222-9328 ext. 1 [email protected]

  17. All Tours

    Your Chicago architecture and skyline tours await! Check our calendar to see which boat tours fit your schedule. Set sail today or buy your tickets in advance. ... Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis. (312) 222-9328 ext. 1 info ...

  18. 7 Best Chicago Boat Tours of 2024: River & Lake Cruises

    The 7 Best Chicago Boat Tours of 2024: River & Lake Cruises. Enjoy architectural boat tours, kayak excursions, speedboat rides and more. By Holly Johnson and Marisa Méndez | May 16, 2024.

  19. Rclb

    DONATE. Every gift to the Chicago Architecture Center supports life-changing experiences. Tours, exhibitions and events for all ages. Visit today to discover the stories behind famous Chicago buildings.

  20. Chicago Architecture Boat Tours

    Architecture boat tours are one of the best ways to delve into Chicago's history. You'll see the different art styles on the buildings that line the Chicago River's shores while expert guides explain how the city was rebuilt after the 1871 Great Chicago Fire.We offer 90-minute architecture tours that cover all three branches of the Chicago River, or you can book a private boat tour for ...

  21. Chicago Architecture Boat Tour

    Chicago River Tour. Our 90-minute boat tour on the Chicago River is our most popular choice! This tour goes in depth into the history of the Windy City's architecture. We'll pass by well-known structures like the Wrigley Building —a terra-cotta building inspired by the Seville Cathedral's bell tower —as well as modern additions like ...

  22. THE 10 BEST Chicago Boat Rides & Cruises

    To truly appreciate Chicago's famous skyline, admire it from the water on this top-rated Lake Michigan architecture cruise…. 6. Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in Chicago. The Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise departs near the DuSable (Michigan Avenue) Bridge on Wendella's world class tour boats. ….

  23. THE 10 BEST Chicago Boat Tours (with Prices)

    Get views of Chicago's most famous buildings, as well as insider info from an expert guide, on this architecture-focused…. 2. Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour. Explore all three branches of the Chicago River on a journey through the heart of the city. This riverboat excursion introduces….

  24. Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours

    Specialties: We believe that tours should be entertaining, enlightening, informational, and perfectly organized, every single time. A tour shouldn't feel laborious in any way; you should feel an effortless inclination to learn more about what we present at your fingertips. With our Chicago architectural tours, that's exactly what we strive to provide, basing each tour from the perspective of ...

  25. Chicago Seadog Haunted River Tour

    Step aboard our Seadog Haunted Tours for a fun-filled journey through Chicago's history of ghosts, spirits, scandals, and sins. As you cruise along the Chicago River, our expert docents weave a delightful a touch of humor into the exploration of the Windy City's darker side. Prepare to be enchanted by tales of supernatural occurrences and ...

  26. Dave Matthews Band Poopgate: 20th anniversary of tour bus ...

    Remembering the infamous Dave Matthews Band tour bus incident, 20 years later More than 800 pounds of waste were dumped on a passing boat as a bus went over the Kinzie Street bridge

  27. Iconic band had to pay huge fine after dumping 800 pounds of human

    The boat's passage under the bridge coincided with the same moment that a tour bus belonging to the Dave Matthews Band passed overhead.. That afternoon, the bus was being driven by Stefan Wohl ...