How to Plan Your Classic Lake Tour in Chicago

Are you planning a trip to Chicago and looking for ways to take in its stunning architecture and rich history? Look no further than the Classic Lake Tour! Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning your perfect Lake Michigan cruise experience in the Windy City.

Step 1: Choose Your Tour Time

The Classic Lake Tour is offered at multiple times throughout the day in both English and Spanish. You can easily book your preferred tour time by visiting the GetYourGuide website at book the tour here.

Step 2: Buy Your Tickets

Avoid the hassle of waiting in line at the ticket office and purchase your tickets in advance. The Classic Lake Tour offers skip-the-line entry with a barcoded ticket, so you can proceed directly to the boarding line. Your ticket includes pre-recorded commentary in English or Spanish, depending on your chosen option. You’ll also have the option to purchase a boarding photo to commemorate your experience.

Step 3: Arrive at the Dock

The Classic Lake Tour departs from Navy Pier, located at 600 E Grand Ave in Chicago. It’s easily accessible by public transportation or by car. Make sure to arrive early to ensure that you have plenty of time to explore Navy Pier before your tour. There’s plenty of restaurants, souvenir shops, and even a Ferris wheel to keep you occupied before you set sail.

Step 4: Board the Boat

As a skip-the-line ticket holder, you’ll be able to board the boat quickly and efficiently. Once you’re on board, find a comfortable spot to sit or stand and get ready to take in the stunning views of the Chicago skyline.

Step 5: Enjoy the Tour

As the boat begins to sail, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Chicago’s historic lakefront sights and attractions. You’ll learn about the city’s history and architecture through pre-recorded commentary that’s available in both English and Spanish. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery!

Step 6: Explore Navy Pier

After your tour, take some time to explore Navy Pier. There’s plenty to see and do, including restaurants, shops, and attractions like the Chicago Children’s Museum and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

Step 7: Reflect on Your Experience

As you leave Navy Pier, take a few moments to reflect on your Classic Lake Tour experience. From the stunning views of the Chicago skyline to the informative commentary about the city’s architecture and history, it’s a tour that’s not to be missed. So, what are you waiting for? Book your Classic Lake Tour today and get ready to experience the beauty of Chicago from a whole new perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago

If you’re planning a trip to Chicago, you likely have a lot of questions about this vibrant city. We’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions to help you plan your visit.

1. What is Chicago known for?

Chicago is known for many things, including its deep-dish pizza, architecture, jazz music, and museums. It’s also known for being a major transportation hub and for having a thriving business district.

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

The best time to visit Chicago is during the months of May through September when the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, keep in mind that the city can get quite crowded during the busy summer months. If you’re looking for milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the spring or fall.

3. What are some must-see attractions in Chicago?

There are many must-see attractions in Chicago, including:

• The Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower)
• The Art Institute of Chicago
• The Navy Pier
• The Museum of Science and Industry
• The Magnificent Mile shopping district

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

Chicago has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trains (known as the “L”). You can also easily get around the city by walking or cycling. If you’re planning to drive, be prepared for heavy traffic and limited parking options.

5. Where can I find the best deep-dish pizza in Chicago?

This is a highly debated question among Chicago locals and visitors alike! Some popular deep-dish pizza restaurants in Chicago include Giordano’s, Lou Malnati’s, and Gino’s East. We recommend trying a few different places to find your own personal favorite.

6. What are some free things to do in Chicago?

There are plenty of free things to do in Chicago, including:

• Visit Millennium Park to see the famous “Bean” sculpture and attend free concerts and events
• Explore the Lincoln Park Zoo
• Walk along the Lakefront Trail and enjoy the views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline
• Visit the Harold Washington Library Center, which offers free exhibits, workshops, and events

7. What are some family-friendly activities in Chicago?

Chicago has plenty of family-friendly activities, including:

• Visiting the Shedd Aquarium
• Exploring the Children’s Museum
• Taking a boat tour of the Chicago River
• Visiting Navy Pier and riding the Ferris wheel

8. What is the weather like in Chicago?

Chicago has four distinct seasons, with cold winters and hot summers. Temperatures can range from below freezing in the winter to the 90s in the summer. It’s important to pack accordingly depending on the time of year you’re visiting.

9. What are some popular neighborhoods to explore in Chicago?

Some popular neighborhoods in Chicago include:

• The Loop: Chicago’s central business district
• Wicker Park: A trendy neighborhood with a thriving arts and music scene
• Lincoln Park: A family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of parks and attractions
• The Magnificent Mile: A high-end shopping district with plenty of dining and entertainment options

10. Is Chicago safe for tourists?

While Chicago has a reputation for being a dangerous city, most tourists can have a safe and enjoyable trip by taking common-sense precautions such as staying in well-lit and busy areas, avoiding walking alone at night, and being aware of their surroundings at all times. It’s always a good idea to check the latest travel advisories and to be mindful of any areas that are known to be high-crime.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Chicago

Chicago, lovingly referred to as the Windy City, is a popular tourist destination located in the state of Illinois. Famed for its deep-dish pizza, jazz music, waterfront skyline, and architecture, Chicago boasts a plethora of attractions that appeal to people of all ages and walks of life. Here, I’ll be guiding you on how to spend your time as a tourist in Chicago.

1. Visit the Willis Tower

Formerly known as the Sears Tower, the Willis Tower stands tall at 1,450 feet and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chicago. Visitors to the tower can take an elevator to the Skydeck on the 103rd floor and witness the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan from a bird’s eye view. If you’re feeling daring, stand on the iconic glass ledge, which extends out over the city, offering an up-close and personal view of the area.

2. Take a Walk Along Lake Michigan

A photo-favorite, Lake Michigan is an impressive and calming sight. The lakefront offers miles of scenic paths for walkers, joggers, and bikers, complete with artwork, play areas for children, a beach, and some grassy areas to sit and relax.

3. Explore the Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is home to more than 300,000 works of art and is considered one of the top art museums in the world. Visitors will be delighted to see an extensive collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings, modern works, and antiquities from all across the globe.

4. Eat Some Chicago-style Deep-dish Pizza

A trip to Chicago would be incomplete without indulging in its famous regional cuisine, a deep-dish pizza. Gino’s East, Lou Malnati’s, and Giordano’s are popular eateries that serve this signature dish. While deep-dish can take longer to prepare than the standard thin-crust pizza, the wait is well worth it.

5. Go to Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of the most visited sites in Chicago, and for a good reason. It offers beautiful landscapes, modern art installations, and entertaining outdoor performances. The most iconic attraction in the park is the Cloud Gate sculpture, famously known as “The Bean,” located in the center of the park.

6. Experience the Navy Pier

The Navy Pier is another popular Chicago attraction. It offers amusement park rides, a Ferris wheel, a museum, restaurants, shopping, and beautiful views of Lake Michigan. During the summer months, keep an eye out for the Navy Pier fireworks, which light up the sky every Wednesday and Saturday night.

7. Watch a Show at the Chicago Theatre

The famous Chicago Theatre is a historical landmark that opened its doors in 1921. Visitors can attend a live show, concert, or comedy event held in the majestic theater. The elaborate decor and lighting that feature in the theater makes it a cultural experience in itself.

8. Take a River Cruise

Experience Chicago’s unique architecture by taking an architectural river cruise. This 75-minute tour on the Chicago River features over 40 significant buildings and landmarks designed by famous architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.

9. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world. It features a wide range of exhibits covering topics like space exploration, transportation, chemistry, and much more. Interactive displays make the museum an engaging and fun experience for visitors of all ages.

10. Attend a Sporting Event

Sports are a big part of Chicago’s culture. Whether you’re an avid sports fan or not, you’ll enjoy watching the Chicago Cubs, the Chicago White Sox, the Chicago Bulls, or the Chicago Bears play in their respective stadiums. Home to some of America’s famous sports teams, Chicago boasts an atmosphere like no other.

In Book Your Tour Now

Chicago is a fantastic destination for travelers looking for a mix of culture, history, and entertainment. With so much to do, visitors will undoubtedly need to prioritize their itinerary. Though this list is a great starting point to help you make the most of your time in this vibrant city, there’s plenty more to discover in Chicago that will keep you coming back for more.