Free cancellation

Chicago By Night: River and Lakefront Cruise Experience

4.5 (434 reviews) · By First Lady

Experience the magic of Chicago at night on the Chicago By Night River and Lake Cruise. Glide along the city’s iconic river and lakefront, taking in the dazzling lights and stunning skyline views. As you cruise, enjoy lively commentary that brings Chicago’s history and landmarks to life, all while feeling the gentle night breeze.

This 1.5-hour adventure is perfect for families and visitors looking for a memorable way to see the city’s most famous sights. From the sparkling Buckingham Fountain to the towering skyscrapers like the 360 Chicago Observation Deck, every moment offers a picture-perfect scene.

Whether you're celebrating, sightseeing, or just relaxing, this cruise offers a unique perspective of Chicago that you'll want to check off your bucket list. It’s a fun, family-friendly experience that combines sightseeing, entertainment, and a touch of city magic.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the cruise?

The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sights and sounds of Chicago at night.

Is the cruise suitable for children?

Yes, the cruise is family-friendly. It’s suitable for infants (0-3), children (4-12), and adults (13-99). Small children can ride in a pram or stroller, making it accessible for all fitness levels.

What’s included in the experience?

Your ticket covers all taxes, fees, and handling charges. Onboard, you can purchase snacks, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages. There’s also a restroom and live commentary to enhance your experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?

Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before are non-refundable, and the cruise may be canceled due to bad weather.

Where do I meet for the cruise?

Meet at the northeast corner of Michigan & Wacker Drive. From there, take the stairs down to Chicago’s Riverwalk and visit the box office for guidance to your boarding dock. A departure board is available for reference.

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reserve now

Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.

Duration 1.5 hours

Check availability to see start times.

Live tour guide

English

Key facts

Duration 1.5 hours
Languages English
Group size Up to 10
Ages Infant 0–3; Child 4–12; Adult 13–99
Accessibility Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What's included

Included

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Snacks, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase on board
  • Restroom on board
  • Live commentary on board

Not included

  • Gratuities

Itinerary

  1. Stop 1 Pass by

    Travel along the Chicago River to learn about the city's rich history as our lively tour guides bring Chicago to life with interesting stories.

  2. Stop 2 Pass by

    Admire the Chicago skyline as you cruise along Lake Michigan.

  3. Stop 3 Pass by

    Get unbelievable views of this shopping and dining area, and the famous Centennial Wheel.

  4. Stop 4 Pass by

    Take in this 100-story, 1,128-foot supertall skyscraper at 875 N Michigan, home to the 360 Chicago Observation Deck.

  5. Stop 5 Pass by

    Cruise past Chicago's museum campus and see Adler Planetarium.

  6. Stop 6 Pass by

    See the The Field Museum, one of the largest natural history museums in the world.

  7. Stop 7 Pass by

    Shedd Aquarium was once the largest indoor facility in the world!

  8. Stop 8 Pass by

    Home of the Chicago Bears!

  9. Stop 9 Pass by

    Enjoy breathtaking views of Buckingham Fountain's spectacular light display.

  10. Stop 10 Pass by

    The Wrigley Building is a skyscraper built to house the corporate headquarters of the Wrigley Company.

  11. Stop 11 Pass by

    Pass and view famous landmarks.

  12. Stop 12 Pass by

    Pass and view famous landmarks.

  13. Stop 13 Pass by

    Pass and view famous landmarks.

Meeting point & pickup

Meet at the starting point

On Michigan & Wacker Drive, at the northeast corner of the intersection. Upon arrival, please take the stairs down to Chicago's Riverwalk and visit the box office (right after/bottom of the stairs) for guidance to your cruise boarding dock. A departure board is available for your reference.

Open in Google Maps

Cancellation & confirmation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

  • 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day before
  • 0% refund if cancelled less than 1 day before
  • May be canceled due to bad weather

Instant confirmation

Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.

From $50.00 per person

Infant Age 0–3
0
Child Age 4–12
0
Adult Age 13–99
1
  • Free cancellation
  • Secure checkout with our booking partner

Reliable & Guaranteed Tickets

Book this experience through our trusted partner and enjoy secure checkout, verified reviews, and reliable customer support.

Prices and availability are subject to change. You will be redirected to our partner website to complete your booking.