Chicago By Night River And Lake Cruise

Spend 1.5 hours on a night cruise along the river and lake in Chicago. First Lady operates the cruise, rated 4.7 by 1192 reviewers, and tickets start from $50.

Overview

This 1.5-hour cruise with First Lady starts on the main branch of the Chicago River, then passes through the Chicago Harbor Lock and out onto Lake Michigan. That means you watch the boat rise as it enters the lake and settle back down on the return, while the guide explains how the lock works.

The route is built around the city after dark. Guides point out lit landmarks along the river and the shoreline, including Willis Tower, the Aon Center, the John Hancock Building, Marina City, the Wrigley Building, the Chicago Tribune Building, Navy Pier, Museum Campus, Buckingham Fountain with its light display, and the lighthouse. Narration runs throughout, covering Chicago's history and the stories behind the buildings.

The cruise suits travellers who want a relaxed end to the day rather than a packed sightseeing march. There is open and covered seating, drinks are sold on board, and children under 4 ride free. It departs from the northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, down on the riverwalk level, and it runs rain or shine.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Check in on the riverwalkFind the black First Lady awning at the northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, take the stairway down to the riverwalk level, and check in at the box office or with a Guest Service Ambassador. A departure board next to the box office shows the boarding gate.
2. Board the cruiseHead to the assigned boarding gate and settle into open or covered seating. Strollers are folded and stored in the salon for the trip.
3. Cruise the main river branchGlide along the Chicago River past historic buildings and lit skyscrapers while the guide narrates the city's history and points out landmarks.
4. Pass through the harbor lockThe boat goes through the Chicago Harbor Lock as the guide explains its operation and uses. Expect the vessel to rise as it enters Lake Michigan.
5. Take in the lake viewsOut on Lake Michigan, take in the skyline, the shoreline, Buckingham Fountain's light display, Navy Pier, and the lighthouse.
6. Return through the lockThe boat lowers back through the lock to the river and returns to the departure point, with commentary continuing along the way.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will help you plan the evening, from what to wear to how the lock crossing affects the pace.

• Bring warm layers. The listing advises warm clothing and a jacket, and it is sound advice for an open boat on the water at night.
• Drinks on board. Beer, wine, soda, and water are available for purchase on the boat. No food is sold, but you can bring your own snacks.
• Lock crossing. Passing through the Chicago Harbor Lock is a distinctive part of the trip, and the guide explains how it works. The boat rises as it enters Lake Michigan and lowers on the return.
• Rain or shine. Cruises depart in all weather since the boat has both open and covered seating. There is no need to rebook for light rain.
• Arrive on time. Check in at the box office or with a Guest Service Ambassador on arrival, and a departure board next to the box office shows the boarding gate. Latecomers cannot be refunded, so allow time to find the riverwalk-level entrance.
• Commentary, not a party. The bulk of the ride is guided narration about buildings and city history. One reviewer said the commentary became somewhat boring at points, so expect a relaxed, story-driven cruise rather than constant action.

Common issues. The lock passage can involve waiting, which one reviewer found frustrating on a busy holiday weekend. One reviewer also felt the commentary dragged at points. Latecomers are not refunded, though the operator will try to fit them on another evening. Motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated, and manual wheelchair use depends on availability. Gratuities and food are not included in the ticket.

Common Questions