When visiting a place like Chicago, getting out of your car and exploring by foot is a great way to experience the sights and sounds of the city. However, you can also explore the Windy City by water. We’d like to highlight two popular cruises that will make your trip even more memorable.
Chicago Architectural Cruises
You don’t have to be a student of architecture to enjoy an architectural cruise on the Chicago River. Departing from Navy Pier, this one-hour cruise takes passengers past over 40 notable buildings of architectural interest; among them are the Lake Point Tower, Chicago Tribune Tower, John Hancock Center, Merchandise Mart and Willis Tower (formerly called the Sears Tower). A tour guide provides more information along the way. As you gaze upward while floating along the river, you’ll be amazed at the detail and magnitude of the massive skyscrapers that define downtown Chicago.
Operating Season: Chicago Architectural Cruises operates April through October, Monday – Friday. Even leashed dogs are welcome on this tour!
Elegant Dinner Cruise
When it comes time for meals, there is no shortage of great cuisine at area restaurants. But if you’re looking for an alternative to driving around searching for a parking space for your rental car on a Friday night, consider the Elegant Dinner Cruise. This three-hour luxury tour also departs from Navy Pier, but heads out to Lake Michigan to cruise along the shoreline (about one mile out). Guests enjoy a private table in one of three dining rooms, and multiple decks provide plenty of opportunities for dancing to the romantic sounds of piano or jazz music. Don’t forget to take a stroll on the outside deck to get a stunning view of the famous Chicago skyline.
Operating Season and Hours: The Elegant Dinner Cruise operates year round, departing at 7:00p.m. Monday – Thursday, and 8:00p.m. on Friday. Formal dress is highly preferred; some dress code restrictions apply. Sunday brunch and lunch cruises are also available (dressy-casual clothing required).
In an upcoming post, we’ll point out a few other unique ways to discover Chicago – you can’t see it all from a car rental! For more information on water cruises, visit www.chicagotours.us.
Let us know if you’ve enjoyed a water cruise around Chicago. We welcome your suggestions on other Illinois travel destinations and activities as well!
