How to Plan Your 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Cruise on the Chicago River

Are you planning a trip to Chicago and looking for a unique way to experience its architecture? A guided architecture cruise on the Chicago River may just be the perfect solution. This 1.5-hour tour takes you along the river while showcasing some of the city’s most iconic buildings. Here’s everything you need to know about planning your guided architecture cruise on the Chicago River:

Experience

This tour offers an educational and exciting opportunity to see Chicago’s architecture from a different perspective. You’ll travel along the Chicago River and pass by some of the city’s most iconic buildings, including the Wrigley Building, Willis Tower, and Tribune Tower.

Itinerary

The tour takes approximately 1.5 hours and includes stops at the following iconic buildings of Chicago:

• Wrigley Building
• Marina City Goldberg
• Merchandise Mart
• Willis Tower
• Chicago Board of Trade Building
• Tribune Tower
• Aon Center
• NBC Tower
• Aqua at Lakeshore East
• Lake Point Tower
• Wrigley Building

Meeting Point

The meeting point for the tour is located at the Chicago Riverwalk, just a few minutes’ walk from the Michigan Avenue Bridge. It’s important to arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the start of the tour.

Main Sites Passed

As mentioned above, the tour passes by some of the most iconic buildings in Chicago, including the Wrigley Building and Willis Tower. Additionally, you’ll travel along the Chicago River and get a unique perspective of the city’s architecture.

Highlights

Some of the highlights of this guided architecture cruise include:

• Pre-purchase your ticket to skip the ticket line and guarantee your place on this popular cruise
• Experience the architectural river tour which started it all – back in 1935
• Enjoy year-long cruising with a choice of outside deck-top or indoor climate-controlled seating
• Learn from expert tour guides the importance of Chicago’s architecture and how it has developed over the years
• Enjoy true Chicago hospitality with locally sourced food and drinks available at a full service cash bar

Booking Your Tour

If you’re interested in booking the 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Cruise on the Chicago River, you can do so by visiting this link. It’s recommended to pre-purchase your ticket to ensure your spot on the tour and skip the ticket line.

Book Your Tour Now

Taking a guided architecture cruise on the Chicago River is a unique and educational way to experience the city’s iconic buildings. While on the tour, you’ll learn about the history of Chicago’s architecture and its development over the years. Pre-purchasing your ticket will guarantee your spot on the tour and ensure a smooth tour experience. So, book your tour today and enjoy the beautiful architecture of Chicago from a new perspective!

Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago

Chicago, the Windy City, is one of the great American cities full of rich history, diverse culture, scenic beauty, and a bustling metropolis. Whether you’re planning a trip or moving to the city, you might have many questions about Chicago. Below, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you navigate and appreciate this great city.

1. What is the best time to visit Chicago?

Chicago weather varies greatly throughout the year, with hot humid summers and freezing cold winters. The best time to visit Chicago is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. The best months to visit are May, June, September, and October. However, keep in mind that the summer months are also the most crowded.

2. How do I get around Chicago?

Chicago has an extensive public transportation system, called the “L,” which stands for elevated train. The “L” is a fast and efficient way to get around the city, and it runs 24 hours a day. The bus system is also reliable and covers most parts of the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.

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

Chicago has plenty of attractions to offer. Some of the must-see attractions in the city include the iconic Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), the Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, the Shedd Aquarium, Lincoln Park Zoo, Millennium Park, and the Museum of Science and Industry.

4. What is Chicago-style pizza?

Chicago-style pizza is a deep-dish pizza that originated in Chicago in the 1940s. The crust is thick and buttery, and the toppings are layered on the pizza in the reverse order of a traditional pizza. Instead of toppings on the cheese, the cheese is on top of the toppings.

5. What are some famous foods in Chicago?

Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, popcorn, and Garrett’s popcorn. You can find these foods at various restaurants and eateries throughout the city.

6. What sports teams are in Chicago?

Chicago is home to several professional sports teams, including the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox baseball teams, the Chicago Bears football team, the Chicago Blackhawks ice hockey team, and the Chicago Bulls basketball team. Sports fans can catch a game at the respective team’s stadium or arena.

7. What is the Magnificent Mile?

The Magnificent Mile is a bustling stretch of Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago. It’s home to luxury retail shops, restaurants, and hotels, and it serves as a hub of tourism in the city. Visitors can shop, dine, and take in the beautiful architecture of Chicago’s skyline.

8. What parks are in Chicago?

Chicago has many beautiful parks, including the famous Millennium Park, which features the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as “The Bean”), The Grant Park, The Lincoln Park, The Jackson Park, The Garfield Park, and The Humboldt Park, among others.

9. What is the history of Chicago?

Chicago has a rich and vibrant history. The city was founded in 1833 and quickly grew into a major transportation hub due to its location on Lake Michigan. It played a significant role in the development of the U.S. railroads and was home to many famous figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Al Capone. Chicago was also the site of the infamous 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition and the 1933-1934 World’s Fair.

10. What museums are in Chicago?

Chicago has many world-renowned museums, such as the Field Museum of Natural History, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Science and Industry, the Shedd Aquarium, the Adler Planetarium, and the DuSable Museum of African American History. In summary, Chicago is a must-visit destination, and we hope this FAQ has helped answer some of your questions about this great city. Whether you’re a history buff, food lover, or just want to explore the city, Chicago has something for everyone.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Chicago

Chicago, the third-largest city in the United States, is known for its vibrant culture and rich history. From the iconic skyscrapers of the downtown area to the beautiful lakeside beaches, there is something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. If you are planning a trip to Chicago, here is a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of your time in the Windy City.

Step 1: Explore the Downtown Area

The downtown area of Chicago is a must-see for any tourist. Start your exploration at Millennium Park, where you can see the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as “The Bean.” From there, head to the nearby Art Institute of Chicago, which houses an impressive collection of artworks from all around the world. If you are interested in architecture, the Chicago Architecture Center offers a variety of tours that highlight the city’s iconic buildings, such as the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower. You can also head to Navy Pier, which offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.

Step 2: Visit the Museums and Cultural Institutions

Chicago is home to some of the best museums and cultural institutions in the world. The Museum of Science and Industry is a must-visit for anyone interested in science and technology. The Field Museum is another popular attraction, with exhibits on natural history and anthropology. Art lovers should also check out the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago and the National Museum of Mexican Art. Additionally, the Chicago Cultural Center offers a wide range of free cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.

Step 3: Enjoy the Local Food Scene

One of the best things about visiting Chicago is the food. From deep-dish pizza to hot dogs, the city has a wide range of local specialties that you must try. Some of the most famous Chicago-style pizza places include Lou Malnati’s and Giordano’s. For hot dogs, head to Portillo’s or Superdawg. If you are looking for something more upscale, Chicago has plenty of fine dining options as well. Alinea and Girl & the Goat are two of the city’s most famous restaurants, but there are many other excellent options to choose from.

Step 4: Experience the Outdoors

Chicago has plenty of parks and outdoor spaces to explore. Head to Grant Park, which is home to the famous Buckingham Fountain and offers stunning views of Lake Michigan. You can also visit the Lincoln Park Zoo, which is one of the oldest zoos in the country and is home to over 1,000 animals. For a unique outdoor experience, head to the 606, an elevated park and trail that runs through several Chicago neighborhoods. The park offers beautiful views of the city and is a great place to go for a walk or bike ride.

Step 5: Attend a Sporting Event

Finally, no trip to Chicago would be complete without attending a sporting event. The city is home to several professional sports teams, including the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bulls, and Chicago Blackhawks. If you are visiting during baseball season, head to Wrigley Field to catch a Cubs game. For basketball or hockey, head to the United Center to see the Bulls or Blackhawks in action. Attending a sporting event is a great way to feel the energy of the city and connect with the locals.

Book Your Tour Now

Chicago is a vibrant and exciting city that has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in museums, food, or sports, there is no shortage of things to do in the Windy City. Follow this step-by-step guide to make the most of your time in Chicago, and you are sure to have an unforgettable trip.