How to Plan Your Chicago River 75 Minute Guided Architecture Cruise

If you’re planning a visit to Chicago, you won’t want to miss the chance to see some of the city’s stunning architecture from the best seat in the house – a river cruise! The Chicago River 75 Minute Guided Architecture Cruise, operated by a third-party company, is a must-do activity for architecture enthusiasts and anyone looking to explore the city in a unique and unforgettable way. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your perfect tour.

Experience

The Chicago River 75 Minute Guided Architecture Cruise is the original architectural river tour that has been in operation since 1935, and it offers a year-long cruising experience. With a choice of outside deck-top or indoor climate-controlled seating, you’ll be able to enjoy the tour whatever the weather. Expert tour guides will share fascinating insight into the importance of Chicago’s architecture and how it has developed over the years. Whether you’re a seasoned architectural enthusiast or simply curious about the city’s history, the tour is sure to be informative and captivating.

Itinerary

The tour begins and ends at the Wrigley Building, taking you on a picturesque journey along the Chicago River. Along the way, you’ll see many of the city’s most iconic buildings, including Marina City Goldberg, the Merchandise Mart, Willis Tower, Chicago Board of Trade Building, Tribune Tower, Aon Center, NBC Tower, Aqua at Lakeshore East, and Lake Point Tower. As you cruise along the river, you’ll hear about the history of each building and gain a unique perspective on the city’s architecture. The tour’s itinerary is subject to change, but it’s always designed to showcase the best of Chicago’s stunning skyline.

Highlights

One of the significant benefits of pre-purchasing your ticket is that you’ll skip the ticket line and be sure of a place on this popular cruise. This tour offers breathtaking views, and the cruise offers a full-service cash bar with locally sourced drinks and food. The tour offers true Chicago hospitality and is an experience you won’t forget.

How to Book

To book your Chicago River 75 Minute Guided Architecture Cruise, head to GetYourGuide and follow the instructions to book the date and time that suits you best. We recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment, as the tour is popular and can sell out quickly.

Final Thoughts

The Chicago River 75 Minute Guided Architecture Cruise is an unforgettable experience that offers a unique perspective on one of the world’s most iconic skylines. With expert tour guides, stunning views and true Chicago hospitality, it’s no surprise that this is among the city’s most popular activities. Plan your tour now for a thrilling and informative adventure you won’t forget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago

Chicago is a bustling city located in the heart of the United States. It is known for its incredible architecture, delicious food, and rich history. If you are planning to visit Chicago, you probably have many questions. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip:

1. What are some of the must-see attractions in Chicago?

There are so many incredible things to see and do in Chicago. Some of the top attractions include:

• The Willis Tower Skydeck:

This observation deck is located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower). From here, you can get incredible views of the cityscape and Lake Michigan.

• The Art Institute of Chicago:

This world-renowned museum is home to over 300,000 works of art, including famous pieces such as Vincent van Gogh’s “The Bedroom” and Grant Wood’s “American Gothic.”

• Navy Pier:

This 3,300-foot-long pier is located on Lake Michigan and is home to a variety of attractions, including a Ferris wheel, IMAX theater, and restaurants.

• Millennium Park:

This 24.5-acre park is home to the famous “Bean” sculpture, known officially as “Cloud Gate.”

2. What are some of the best neighborhoods to visit in Chicago?

Chicago is home to dozens of unique neighborhoods, each with its own personality and vibe. Some of the best neighborhoods to visit include:

• The Loop:

This is the central business district of Chicago and features many of the city’s tallest skyscrapers.

• Lincoln Park:

This neighborhood is home to the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Lincoln Park Conservatory, as well as many trendy restaurants and bars.

• Wicker Park:

This hip neighborhood is known for its street art, coffee shops, and vintage clothing stores.

• River North:

This neighborhood is home to many art galleries and restaurants, and is known for its nightlife.

3. What is the best time of year to visit Chicago?

Chicago has four distinct seasons, and each season has its own unique advantages and drawbacks. The most popular time to visit is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the most crowded time of year, and prices for hotels and attractions may be higher. Spring and fall are also great times to visit, as the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. Winter can be cold and snowy, but it is also a magical time to visit, with holiday decorations and events throughout the city.

4. What is the best way to get around Chicago?

Chicago has an excellent public transportation system, with buses and trains that run throughout the city. The “L” train system is particularly efficient and can take you to many popular destinations. Taxis and rideshare services are also widely available. If you prefer to drive, be aware that parking can be difficult and expensive in many parts of the city.

5. What are some of the best restaurants in Chicago?

Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza, but there are many other delicious foods to try as well. Some of the best restaurants in the city include:

• Alinea:

This high-end restaurant is known for its innovative and experimental cuisine.

• The Publican:

This European-style beer hall serves up delicious meat dishes and a wide variety of beers.

• Girl & The Goat:

This trendy restaurant in the West Loop serves up small plates with bold flavors.

• Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria:

This classic Chicago restaurant is famous for its deep-dish pizza.

6. What is the history of Chicago?

Chicago was founded in 1833 and quickly grew into a major transportation hub due to its location on Lake Michigan. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Chicago became known for its architecture, with many famous buildings such as the Willis Tower and the John Hancock Center being built during this time. Chicago was also the site of the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893, which showcased many world-renowned artists and musicians. The city has a rich cultural history, with many famous musicians, writers, and artists hailing from Chicago.

7. What other activities are there to do in Chicago?

In addition to the attractions and restaurants mentioned above, there are many other activities to do in Chicago. Some ideas include:

• Taking an architecture boat tour:

These tours take you along the Chicago River and showcase the city’s incredible architecture.

• Visiting the Shedd Aquarium:

This massive aquarium features over 32,000 animals and is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world.

• Attending a Chicago Cubs or Chicago White Sox game:

Baseball is a beloved pastime in Chicago, and attending a game at Wrigley Field or Guaranteed Rate Field is a must-do activity for sports fans.

• Exploring the Lakefront Trail:

This 18-mile trail runs along Lake Michigan and is an excellent place for walking, jogging, or biking. In conclusion, Chicago is a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer for everyone. From world-class museums to delicious restaurants to stunning architecture, there is always something new to discover in this great city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Chicago

Chicago – the windy city, is a tourist destination along the Lake Michigan waterfront, known for its diverse culture, renowned architectural landmarks, world-class museums, and sports teams, not to mention its food and drinks. This guide will take you through the best places and activities to experience in Chicago.

1. Explore Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a landmark for Chicago’s museums, restaurants, and entertainment, a venue that locals have frequented over the years. It’s also an excellent destination for tourists, most notably for its ferris wheel, where you can capture a panoramic view of the Chicago cityscape. Navy Pier also hosts events and exhibits throughout the year that cater to all tastes and preferences.

2. Visit The Cloud Gate (The Bean)

Reflect on the iconic Cloud Gate, affectionately known as “The Bean,” situated within Millennium Park. This centerpiece reflects the city while offering a perfect photo opportunity for visitors. The Bean is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, giving the visitors ample time to admire the world-famous sculptor’s creation, Anish Kapoor.

3. Discover the Attractions at the Chicago Museum Campus

The Chicago Museum Campus features three museums: The Adler Planetarium, The Field Museum, and the Shedd Aquarium. This area also has beautiful views of Lake Michigan and is an excellent place to spend time with family and friends. It is a must-visit site for visitors seeking to explore natural history, ocean life, and astronomy.

4. Walk Down the Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is a 13-block stretch along Michigan Avenue that houses luxurious shops, entertainment centers, restaurants, and bars. Along this mile, you can catch a cool breeze from the lake while you shop in famous stores like Neiman Marcus, Macy’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue.

5. Go on a Chicago River Architectural Tour

The Chicago River is a critical part of the city’s history, and taking an architectural river tour will inspire you. The tour highlights the city’s iconic buildings, diverse architectural styles, and the river itself, giving visitors a chance to relax and soak up the sights.

6. See a Game at Wrigley Field

If you’re a sports fan, Wrigley Field should be at the top of your to-do list when visiting Chicago. The baseball stadium has a rich history and is often packed with enthusiastic fans. You’ll get to witness Chicago’s culture and passion for sports firsthand.

7. Try the Famous Deep-Dish Pizza

No trip to Chicago is complete without trying the famous deep-dish pizza. The Windy City is renowned for its delectable pizza specialties, and ordering a slice of deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s, Gino’s East, or Giordano’s will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

8. Relax at Grant Park

Lastly, unwind at Grant Park, where you can luxuriate in the scenery and relax. Grant Park is a vast green space that offers outdoor exhibitions, music festivals, walking paths, and events throughout the year.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, your trip to Chicago is bound to be memorable, considering all the fantastic sites and attractions. From exploring Navy Pier to tasting the famous deep-dish pizza, you’ll be left with an unforgettable experience of the Windy City. Remember to prioritize planning and allocate enough time to visit each destination, and you’ll be sure to have an excellent time.