Is the seating assigned when you book a ticket?

Seating is first-come, first-served. Boats have both indoor lounges and open-air upper decks, so arrive early if you want a specific spot or a front-row view.

What happens in bad weather?

The cruises generally run rain or shine. Boats have enclosed, heated/air-conditioned cabins to keep passengers comfortable, but captains will cancel or reschedule if conditions are unsafe.

How far in advance should tickets be booked?

Advance booking is recommended, especially for weekends and the peak summer season.

Is there a baby changing area available?

Yes, changing tables are located in the lower deck restrooms.

Can strollers be brought onboard?

Yes, as long as they can be folded for storage.

Is it necessary to wear a life jacket?

Life jackets are not required during normal operations. In the event of an emergency, Coast Guard–approved life jackets are available for all passengers.

What happens if the boat is missed?

Missed departure tickets are non-transferable. However, calling before departure time may allow for rescheduling on a later cruise, subject to availability.

Wendella Boat Tours Chicago | Book River & Lake Cruises

Things to know before booking your tickets

45 vs. 90-Min: The 45-min cruise is a fast-paced journey along the Chicago River, perfect if you’re short on time but still want a lively overview of the city’s landmark architecture. The 90-min option slows things down and adds more depth, taking you from the river through the Chicago Lock out onto Lake Michigan for sweeping skyline views.
Chicago River vs. Lake Michigan - what's different? The river-only cruise keeps you up close to Chicago’s iconic buildings and historic bridges, offering an intimate “street-level” look at the city. Add the Lake Michigan extension and you’ll see the skyline stretch wide against the horizon; a dramatic, postcard-worthy perspective you won’t get from the river alone.
All cruises depart from the Wendella dock at 400 N Michigan Avenue (by the Wrigley Building and DuSable Bridge). Please plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Popular time slots (especially afternoon and sunset) tend to sell out fast, so booking early is recommended.
The cruises can accommodate guests with mobility needs if notified in advance. Note that lake trips involve passing through the Chicago Lock, and some itineraries may have access limitations.

All your Wendella cruise options explained

Chicago River Cruise

Choose this if you want a deeper river tour, as it covers all three branches of the Chicago River from Goose Island down to Chinatown, with richer storytelling about the buildings, engineers, and events that shaped the city.
Expect live, expert commentary and both covered and open decks for viewing.

Average duration: 45-90 minutes

Recommended experiences:

45-min Chicago River Architecture Cruise
90-min Chicago River and Lake Michigan Architecture Cruise

Lake Michigan Cruise

This cruise starts on the river and exits through the Chicago Lock onto Lake Michigan so you get to see river canyons and sweeping lakefront panoramas in one trip; the most complete picture of Chicago from the water.
Cruises feature climate-controlled interiors and open-air decks, with live narration throughout.

Average duration: 90 minutes

Recommended experiences:

90-min Chicago River Architecture Cruise
45-min Chicago River Architecture Cruise

Combos

It's perfect for golden-hour photography and a more relaxed vibe. Glide past the river’s landmarks, pass through the lock, and watch the skyline glow from Lake Michigan as lights come up on the shoreline.
These sunset cruises are very popular; book in advance to avoid them being sold out.

Average duration: 90 minutes

Recommended experiences:

90-min Scenic Sunset Lake Michigan Cruise

A glimpse of what to expect

Wrigley Building

Gleaming white twin towers with a clock that feel like the river’s own welcome sign to the Magnificent Mile.

Tribune Tower in Chicago with blue sky background.

Marina City towers and Chicago skyline under a clear blue sky.

Merchandise Mart building in Chicago with river and bridge in foreground.

Navy Pier in Chicago with Centennial Wheel and boats docked nearby.

Know before you go

Chicago River architecture cruise boat passing under a lift bridge with city skyscrapers in the background.

Wendella cruises typically run from morning through evening, roughly 9am-7pm (with extended hours on peak summer weekends), with departures every 30-60 minutes; exact times vary by cruise type, season, and day.
Boarding begins 15-30 minutes before departure time. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time for ticketing and boarding. Arrive early to secure the best seats.

Tour boat on Chicago River with city skyline in background during architecture cruise.

All cruises depart and return from the Wendella Main Dock: 400 N Michigan Avenue (at the Wrigley Building / DuSable Bridge) | Find on Maps

Getting there:

By bus: Multiple Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses stop along Michigan Avenue near the Chicago River (#2, #3, #26, #143, #146, #147, and #151). Use stops at Michigan & Wacker or Michigan & Hubbard, just steps from the dock.
By train: The closest ‘L’ stations are Grand (Red Line) and State/Lake (Red, Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple Lines). Both are about a 10-minute walk. Millennium Station (Metra) is also nearby, a 5-7 minute walk east of Michigan Avenue.
Car & parking: There is no parking directly at 400 N Michigan Avenue, but multiple commercial garages are located within a few blocks (including garages at 401 N Michigan and 300 N State/Marina Towers).

Group of friends enjoying wine on a Lake Michigan sunset cruise.

Climate-controlled lower cabins (heated and air-conditioned on most boats) plus open-air upper decks for unobstructed views.
Full-service bar and light snacks on many vessels; indoor seating and restrooms on board.
Live, expert narration by local guides on architecture and city history.
Seating is generally first-come, first-served; arrive early for the best viewing spots.

People enjoying a sunset cruise on Lake Michigan with a view of a lighthouse and Chicago skyline.

Sunset cruises are hugely popular; book early if you want a prime slot.
Check your ticket and arrival instructions; most cruises depart and return to the same Wendella dock, but some itineraries may move between the Michigan Ave and West docks (verify the arrival dock on your ticket).
Bring a light jacket or layer even in summer; it can get breezy on the open deck and on Lake Michigan.
Wear flat, secure footwear for safe boarding and moving about the boat.
Consider getting a pair of binoculars to view the architectural details clearly.
Be courteous at railings and photo spots; cruises can get busy; share the best views.
Cruises depart promptly; late arrivals may not be accommodated.
If you or someone in your group has mobility needs, contact Wendella ahead of time; the West Dock is ADA accessible and ramps/lifts are available on many boats, but some docks have stairs.

Best time to go on a cruise

Time of the day

Morning: (9am-11:30am) Calm water, softer light, and fewer people make mornings ideal if you want a relaxed start and easy access to the best seats on deck.
Afternoon: (11:30am-4:30pm) Bright daylight shows off sharp architectural details and makes the skyline pop ; the best time for crisp photos. Expect larger crowds on weekends and holidays.
Sunset & Evening: (5:30pm-8:30pm, later in summer) Evening and sunset cruises are especially memorable. Watch the skyline glow at golden hour, then light up after dark. These sailings are popular, so reserve early.

Time of the year

Late September-early November (Fall) best choice:
Crisp air, brilliant skies, and autumn colors along the river make this the most scenic and comfortable season. Crowds taper off after summer, so you’ll enjoy plenty of space on deck and great light for photos.

Late May-June (Late spring / early summer) balanced pick:
Warm but not hot, with lots of departures added to the schedule. It’s lively without being overwhelming; ideal if you want long daylight hours and more flexibility without the peak summer rush.

July-August (Summer) busiest, most vibrant:
Endless daylight, the fullest schedule create a high-energy atmosphere. Expect larger groups on board and sell-outs for sunset sailings, so booking in advance is a must.

November-March (Winter) quieter season:
Fewer sailings and shorter days, but the cruises' heated, enclosed cabins keep the experience comfortable. A good option if you prefer smaller crowds and off-season prices, as long as you don’t mind bundling up against the cold.