THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Touring Chicago by Water or by Land!
Since we’re still allowed to get outdoors, check out these tours, by water or by land, that are open throughout Chicago this weekend! At least you don’t have to deal with big crowds!!
Many lake and river cruises have set sail again here in Chicago. Here are just a few:
Chicago’s First Lady cruises are located at 112 E. Wacker Drive on Chicago’s Riverwalk in The Loop. As you may know, Chicago is known for its outstanding architecture around the world and admiring the city’s legacy from the water is probably the easiest way. This lake and river cruise offers the most comprehensive tour of the skyline by partnering with the Chicago Architecture Center!
Island Party Boats cruises are located at the Island Party Hut (355 E. Riverwalk S) in The Loop. Enjoy an island experience right here in Chicago. This cruise offers live music, great food & drinks, and both private to semi-private boat charters on the river and lake!
Shoreline Sightseeing cruises are located at Navy Pier (600 E. Grand Ave.) in Streeterville. This cruise covers all the bases and is one of Chicago’s classic cruise options. Their popular 75-minute Architecture River Tour takes you on all three branches of the Chicago River and past dozens of landmark buildings while their 40-minute Skyline Lake Tour showcases the city’s dramatic skyline!
Seadog Cruises by Hornblower is located at Navy Pier as well. If you’re a thrill-seeker, you might enjoy their 30-minutes of high speeds and exhilarating twists and turns on Lake Michigan! Or take it down a notch by enjoying views of Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Museum Campus, and much more! Whether you’re a history buff, love architecture, or are just looking for a fun time, Seadog by Hornblower has something for everyone!
If you prefer to stay on land, check out the following walking tours:
The Chicago Architecture Center offers a wide variety of walking tours which include Chicago Architecture: A Walk Through Time (90-minute tour that takes a comprehensive look at the city’s architectural history); Mid-Century Modern (90-minute tour of modern architects Mies van der Roe, Bertrand Goldberg & SOM’s creations); Art Deco Skyscrapers: The Loop (90-minute tour in the heart of Chicago’s financial district); Must-See Chicago (90-minute introductory tour to Chicago); and many more. Check them out!
Chicago Detours offers both public and private walking tours during the day and evening. With these tours you’ll explore stories and places locals don’t even know about! Your professional guide will also share the personal and forgotten stories behind Chicago’s architecture. If you’re unable to take a walking tour, then join Chicago Detours on one of their live, virtual tours!!
Chicago Greeter tours have resumed with limited group sizes. These free, two to four-hour tours are led by expert locals who guide you through authentic Chicago – its fascinating histories, diverse cultural traditions, iconic landmarks, and off-the-beaten-path gems!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
