Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Chicago Architecture & Lake Tours | Shoreline Sightseeing
Since 1939, Shoreline Sightseeing has been a cornerstone of Chicago's tourism industry, offering unparalleled perspectives of the city's iconic architecture and skyline. Our fleet of 11 tour vessels and 7 water taxis provides guests with diverse options to explore the Windy City, from our signature 75-minute Architecture River Tour to scenic Lake Michigan cruises. With decades of experience, our expert guides bring Chicago's history and engineering marvels to life through engaging narratives that have delighted millions of visitors. We maintain the highest standards of service excellence, evidenced by our consistent recognition in customer reviews and our role as a trusted partner in Chicago's hospitality ecosystem.Our commitment to quality extends to accessibility initiatives, including wheelchair-accessible tours from designated docks. As a family-friendly operation, we cater to diverse groups with offerings like Spanish-language tours and special event transportation. Our dedication to innovation ensures continuous improvements in route planning, scheduling flexibility, and customer convenience while maintaining our legacy of excellence.
Services
Architecture River Tour
Skyline Lake Cruise
Fireworks Tour
Chicago CityPASS
Water Taxi Service
Spanish Language Tour
Group Booking Tours
Special Event Transport
Day Pass Cruises
Accessibility-Focused Tours
Details
- Year established: 1939
Highlights and features
- We've provided Chicago tours since 1939 with unmatched local expertise
- Our fleet includes 11 specialized tour vessels for optimal viewing experiences
- Certified guides deliver engaging historical narratives and architectural insights
- Verified 4.5+ star rating from 4,000+ customer reviews
- We offer accessible tours from designated wheelchair-friendly docks
What people say
Excellent tour guide
Incredible knowledge
Fantastic intro
Entertaining and knowledgeable
Unique perspective
Services
Architecture River Tour
Our signature 75-minute guided tour showcases Chicago's architectural masterpieces along the Chicago River. Expert narrators reveal historical context and engineering innovations behind 40+ landmarks. Ideal for first-time visitors seeking comprehensive city orientation through iconic waterways.
Skyline Lake Cruise
This 45-minute scenic voyage offers panoramic views of Chicago's lakefront skyline from Lake Michigan. Recorded narration details architectural highlights during daytime cruises, while evening departures feature ambient music. Perfect for capturing iconic skyline photographs.
Chicago CityPASS
The CityPASS grants access to five premier attractions including our Architecture River Tour, Skydeck, Field Museum, and more. Valid for nine days with mobile ticket convenience, offering up to 49% savings compared to individual purchases.
Water Taxi Service
Operational May-September, our water taxis provide efficient transportation between major attractions like Navy Pier, Willis Tower, and Museum Campus. Day passes allow unlimited hop-on/hop-off access with 20-30 minute intervals between stops.
Fireworks Tour
Special summer evening tours offering prime viewing of Navy Pier fireworks displays. Available as standalone experiences or combined with regular river or lake tours for extended sightseeing adventures.
Questions
What are the most popular tours?
Our Architecture River Tour remains most popular, followed by Skyline Lake Cruises and Fireworks Tours during summer months.
Are tours wheelchair accessible?
Architecture River Tours are wheelchair accessible from Navy Pier dock only. Other services may have accessibility limitations.
How can I book tickets?
Purchase tickets directly through our website for instant mobile delivery or at designated dock locations.
Do water taxis operate year-round?
Water taxi service runs May through September, with special event extensions in spring and fall.
Are group discounts available?
Group booking options and special arrangements are available for parties of 15 or more guests.
What happens during bad weather?
Tours operate weather permitting. Check our website or call for daily schedule updates during inclement conditions.
Reviews (7)
Scott K.
Jun 23, 2022
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Thank you Becky for sharing your expertise with us. I thought the tour was both interesting and cool. Great way to see and learn Chicago.
Sol M.
Jun 22, 2022
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Every time we visit Chicago we jump on this River tour, today was our sixth time doing the tour. This tour never disappoints! It's always amazing fun and full of facts and funny stories. The staff was polite, today was extremely hot and the staff checked on my kids to make sure they didn't need water and even gave them a hand held fan. Totally recommend this tour.
Richard S.
Jun 21, 2022
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Dan gave my friend and I a great tour (along with 100 other people). I kind of wish we started our trip with this experience instead of ended with it. Learned a lot about the city. Crew knew what they were doing. Felt safe the whole trip.
Flip City M.
Jun 19, 2022
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BECKY She's a personable, knowledgeable docent. She's very down to earth and doesn't sound like a salesperson. though you can tell she loves this city. She hit it over the fence with her recommendation to hit the 95th floor of the Hancock. (Chef's kiss)
Hosni Dene
Jun 18, 2022
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Great service. Our architectural boat tour guide, Joe, was very knowledgeable and explained everything in a way that kept your interest. Very outgoing. The tour was amazing and we learned so much about the buildings, how they were built, and why. Beautiful views!
Kristi V.
Jun 15, 2022
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Spiro was an absolutely incredible tour guide and this tour was worth every moment! We learned so much and truly enjoyed every moment. Highly recommend!
Scott Brady
Jun 13, 2022
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We had this boat tour included as part of our citypass package and it was absolutely fantastic. Our guide Megan was really good at her job, and what she had to say about the different buildings was really interesting and engaging. She could not have been better. The tour was a good duration, and the boat was comfortable. Overall it greatly exceed my expectations and I would definitely recommend this tour if you're in Chicago and looking for something cool to do!
