the chicago river boat architecture tour

• Architecture River Tour

Windy City wow

World-famous landmarks.

There’s nothing quite like seeing Chicago’s world-famous architecture from all three branches of the Chicago River. From hidden treasures to the city’s most well-known sights, you’ll view over 40 Chicago landmarks on our 75-minute Architecture River Boat Tours. 

Enjoy the spectacular views as you listen to our tour guides tell you how Chicago’s buildings, architecture, and engineering made the city famous.

Casting off

Our Architecture River Tours depart from two docks, one at Michigan Avenue and the other at Navy Pier. No matter which dock you depart from, you’ll see all of the spectacular sights as you tour the Chicago River.

Michigan Avenue

401 N. Michigan Ave

Steps off of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, our Michigan Avenue dock starts your tour in the heart of the Chicago River.

124 N. Streeter Drive

Start your tour down the Chicago River at our Navy Pier dock, which sits at the entrance to the iconic Navy Pier boardwalk. This dock is more accessible to wheelchairs.

Our Architecture River Tour takes you up and down the three branches of the Chicago River, providing breathtaking views of Chicago’s famous skyscrapers and landmarks at every turn.

Adults: $49.95

Children (3-12): $26.95

Children 2 and under: Free

Tour highlights:

• 75-minute, guided boat tour
• Unique views from the water create an entirely new perspective of the city
• 40+ landmarks including the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City
• Hear the stories of Chicago’s architects and engineers while viewing their magnificent buildings

Sightseeing in Chicago?

Chicago CityPASS® tickets save 48% on premier admission  to Chicago’s top 5 attractions, including the Architecture River Tour. Visit the attractions at your own pace, in any order, over a 9-day period. One easy purchase and mobile ticket delivery saves you time and money.

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Now in its 83rd season, Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis.

(312) 222-9328 ext. 1 [email protected]

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Chicago’s Best 90-Minute Architecture Boat Tour

Upper and Lower Decks with 360° Views

Guided Tour With Expert Commentary

Discover the History Behind the Architecture

Behold the architecture that makes the city of Chicago famous! On our 90-minute boat charter, your tour guide will teach you about the monuments that have survived the years. Get to know the Windy City from the water and admire the extraordinary vistas as we cruise gently along.

Discover the unique story of Chicago by learning about the architectural marvels that line its shores.

Listen to in-depth commentary from your tour guide about the different artistic styles used throughout the decades.

Get a first-hand glimpse at the buildings mentioned from the ship’s open-air upper deck or its enclosed, air-conditioned main deck.

Admire incredible city panoramas from all sides with the ship’s 360° viewing capabilities.

The only tour that goes all the way to the locks on the main branch, Chinatown on the south branch, & Goose Island on the north branch. You’ll see the most on this tour.

Capture amazing skyline photos from your unique onboard position.

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Trip details.

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Key Information

Price per person.

Seniors (ages 55+), Military, Veterans, COVID-19 Healthcare Workers, and First Responders: $25.00 Students (ages 4 to 17): $25.00 Children (ages 3 and under): Free, but needs a registered ticket

Groups of 10 or more adults: Please see our group cruises and tours page to learn more about discounts.

Departure time

Exact departure times can be found on our ticket page . Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

Ticketed passengers must be boarded 10 minutes before departure time , as standby boarding starts 10 minutes before scheduled departure. Ticketed passengers who arrive late will be placed at the end of the standby line. There are no refunds for those who arrive late.

Meeting point

“Summer of George” docked at River City Marina 900 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607 Upon Arrival, follow these directions .

We typically operate from May to October. However, please check our calendar for exact availability.

Discover Chicago’s Architecture From A New Angle

Chicago river tour.

Our 90-minute boat tour on the Chicago River is our most popular choice! This tour goes in depth into the history of the Windy City’s architecture. We’ll pass by well-known structures like the Wrigley Building —a terra-cotta building inspired by the Seville Cathedral’s bell tower —as well as modern additions like Trump Tower. Even if you’re not an architecture buff, you’ll enjoy learning about how Chicago’s construction goes hand in hand with its history. Enjoy commentary by our expert guides and discover the buildings that make up the famous skyline . We’re excited to take you on a journey through Chicago’s past.

Enjoy our 90-minute architecture boat ride that will start at our docking location and take you to all 3 parts of the river. We begin at the “Summer of George” docks, travel the main branch up to the river locks, via the north branch to Goose Island, and down the south branch to Chinatown before returning to the starting point.

Other Important Information

• All guests including children and babies need a ticket to board.
• All tickets are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled.
• All event tickets are general admission, and there is no assigned seating .
• Please arrive early if you’d like to be seated with your group.
• Our tours operate rain or shine so please do not contact us to inquire if the tour will be canceled. Unless you receive a cancellation email from us, please assume the tour will go on as scheduled. In the event of rain, you may bring a poncho or an umbrella. There is also an interior deck on the boat.
• Due to unforeseen circumstances, a tour may get canceled. In the event of a cancellation, we will provide you with a credit for a future tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our dock is located at the River City Marina at 900 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607 . To get here, guests need to head south on Wells Street and enter through the parking lot behind the River City condominium building. The parking lot is located across from the soccer field on 9th Street and Wells. Please note that you do NOT need to go into the building to find us. Once you arrive, we will complete your registration in the parking lot before embarking. Please note that the cruise starts and finishes at this location.

One of the perks of booking an architecture boat cruise with Tours & Boats is that parking is relatively easy to find! There is a parking lot located at the marina , and it costs around $10 . For more information, please see our detailed guide here . However, please note that it is possible for the parking lot to fill up early, and we are not responsible in the event that you are unable to find a spot . For this reason, we recommend arriving early so that you can find alternate parking, should the need arise.

If the date you want is not listed on the calendar, this means our boat is reserved for a private event. However, we do sometimes add new cruise dates or times if an opening becomes available, so please check back often.

Yes. Even though children age 3 and under are free, you need to register them for a ticket. This is because the Coast Guard counts all human passengers on the boat.

Please see our other FAQs for more information.

See what our guests are saying.

We had a great time on this tour. The captain had a great sense of humor and the tour guide was very knowledgeable. She not only talked about the architecture of the building style but had some great history and facts about them as well. We were even able to enjoy this with our toddler along for the ride! Would highly recommend for adults and families of all ages!

We had a great informational time on the tour. So many buildings, so little time! Even at 90 minutes the tour seemed to fly by. Our guide, Sean, did a great job keeping the same pace as the boat describing each building in great detail, builders, architects, year, styles, and revisions.

If you only have time for 1 thing to do while you are in Chicago, the architectural boat tour is it! So educational, pleasant and interesting. I really enjoyed it. The guide was incredible with the amount of knowledge he had of the buildings and the city and he weaved it into really engaging stories.

Chicago River Architecture Tour

Chicago's Original Architecture Tour®

Departing from Michigan Avenue

Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length architecture tours.

Schedule & Tickets

• Adult: $28.00
• Child (4 -12): $13.00
• Under 4: Free (ticket required)

TICKETS ARE NON REFUNDABLE BUT ARE TRANSFERABLE.

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• Mich Ave Location; 400 N Michigan Avenue Chicago, Il 60611
• Boarding begins 15-30 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.
• All bags are subject to inspection.
• Prohibited Items: Outside Alcohol, Weapons of any kind (Firearms, Knives, etc.), Flammables, Explosives.

YOUR BOAT INCLUDES:

Drinks & Snacks

Full-service bar with wine, local beer, and craft cocktails, as well as an assortment of snacks, all for purchase. Pinkies up!

Expert Tour Guide

Never boring, always entertaining.

No need to hold it. We have changing tables for the little ones who don’t know what holding it is.

Chicago River Architecture Boat Tour

TICKET PRICES STARTING FROM

Taxes and fees will be calculated at checkout

Marvel at the magnificent architecture on the Chicago River with expert tour guides! All ages welcome. Each architecture river tour is narrated by a professional guide which leads passengers down the Chicago River to discover the city’s most renowned landmarks. In addition to historical insight on well known structures such as the Civic Opera House, Trump Tower & the Merchandise Mart, passengers will also get a chance to learn about current and upcoming developments. This Chicago River Cruise is the only cruise that navigates the three primary branches of the river including the main branch to Navy Pier, the north branch to Goose Island, and the south branch to Chinatown. It is also the cruise closest to Skydeck, has the least expensive parking, and is great for those coming from the suburbs due to its location off Interstate 290.

Ticket Options

1 Option Available

Chicago River Architecture Boat Tour: $32

Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking

What's Included

• Fully enclosed interior with air conditioning, seats, & windows
• Outside seating available (seating is first come first serve basis)
• Guided architecture cruise of the historic Chicago River

What's not Included

• Full bar & snacks (available for purchase)
• $12 to $15 discounted parking lot connected to marina

Cancellation Policy

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

Additional Info

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Tour times cannot be changed
• Cruises are on rain or shine
• Minimum drinking age is 21 years
• Please arrive 30 min before your cruise time
• Seating is first come first serve. If you have a large group, arrive early
• Child Ticket (3 and under) is for free but needs a registered ticket
• Youth Tickets available on our main ticketing page
• Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship
• Vessel has full bar and restroom

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Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours

Chicago River Tours | Fireworks Tours | Jazz/Cocktail Tours

Chicago River Boat Architectural Tour

Forming a length of 156 miles when combined, the Chicago River is a system of rivers and canals the characterize the infamous skyline of Chicago today. The river, running through the city, including the city center Chicago Loop, is evident of man made design and infrastructure when completed craftily. In 1887, the river was reversed through civil engineering by taking water from Lake Michigan and discharging it into the Mississippi Watershed. Memorialized today, it’s a national landmark you have to add to your travel list.

Throughout our signature cruise one of our award-winning Docents will present more than 50 skyscrapers, bascule bridges, and historic sites.

In a world of iconic architecture, only a few images are so instantly recognized they need no subtitle.

Think of the Venetian canals, a Shinto temple, the medieval Cathedral at Chartres, or the unmistakable skyline of Chicago. Each year thousands of architecture lovers travel to the City of Chicago, the birthplace of the skyscraper… and thousands book passage aboard our enthralling river tour, widely considered the best 90-minutes spent in Chicago.

On your Architectural Tour you will learn how the Great Chicago Fire jumped a river and allowed for visionaries of structural steel and plate glass, such as John Wellborn Root, William Le Baron Jenney, Louis Sullivan (Wright’s mentor) and Daniel Burnham, in less than ten years, lift Chicago from the ashes of the fire to new heights. Chicago’s ascent continued into the 20th century with titanic figures such as Bertrand Goldberg, Fazlur Khan and Mies van der Rohe – (higher/taller) buildings, sleeker – and it has soared in the 21st century with audacious new steeples such as The Trump Tower and Aqua designed by Jeanne Gang, an internationally known artist of architectural design.

Join us for a 90-minute Architectural Tour aboard Chicago Line Cruises.  On Saturdays, at 8:30 p.m. we offer a 2 hour Architectural / Fireworks Cruise.

A jaw-dropping excursion through a city that defied all expectations … even the laws of gravity.

Tour Information

• Seniors $48
• Kids under 6 go free!
• 3 pm *Not Available Friday thru Sunday Summer Months*
• 90 minute duration

Are you ready to learn more about Chicago’s architecture nestled along the Chicago River?

Be sure to bring your camera – you’re not going to want to miss these shots.

BOOK YOUR TOUR NOW

By Phone: (708) 488-6343

Tour departure location.

465 N McClurg Ct, Chicago, IL 60611

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Shoreline Architecture River Tours

Take Shoreline’s award-winning 75-minute Architecture River Tour to discover Chicago’s renowned landmarks as presented by our expert and entertaining guides.

You’ll learn how Chicago rose from the ashes of the Great Fire of 1871 to become the birthplace of the skyscraper and a major influence on the school of modern American architecture.

Shoreline’s Architecture River Tour features commentary on more than 40 of the city’s most famous buildings as well as close-up views and excellent photo opportunities.

Shoreline also offers Spanish Language Architecture River Tours; see website for times and locations.

Tours depart day and evening from both the southwest corner of Polk Bros Park at Navy Pier and the northeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at the Apple store.

Discover why Shoreline’s Architecture River Tour was the TripAdvisor 2020 Travelers’ Choice #1 of the Top Ten Experiences in Best of the Best Award Winner!

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• Mon 9:30am – 8:00pm
• Tue 9:30am – 8:00pm
• Wed 9:30am – 8:00pm
• Thu 9:30am – 8:00pm
• Fri 9:30am – 10:00pm
• Sat 9:30am – 10:00pm
• Sun 9:30am – 7:00pm

124 N. Streeter Drive, Chicago, IL 60611

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7 things that might surprise you about the Chicago Architecture Boat Tour

T here are plenty of ways to take in the sights, sounds (and smells) of Chicago, but you don't necessarily have to be on land to do that.

And you don't have to be a tourist, either.

In fact, one of the most beloved ways — among locals and visitors alike — to experience city is by journeying across the Chicago River and Lake Michigan while a tour guide talks about buildings and regales you on the untold story of Mrs. O'Leary's cow.

In other words: a Chicago Architecture Boat Tour.

"As you're going up and down the Chicago River and on Lake Michigan, you're seeing the city’s evolving architecture, which is changing every year" said Andrew Sargis, director of sales and marketing for Wendella Tours and Cruises .

Wendella, billed as Chicago's "original" architecture tour, in 1935 gave its first architecture tour of the city from a wooden diesel yacht out on Navy Pier, Sargis said. Now, upwards of 20 architecture tours are offered daily, with more on the weekends. On average, Wendella tours see roughly 100,000 passengers each month over the summer, Sargis said.

And though the majority of guests on any given Wendella architecture tour are tourists, Sargis said, locals take them, too.

MORE: Even Chicagoans can't get enough of this tourist attraction: ‘It's about the only touristy thing I do'

"I was surprised when I first started, we get a lot of repeat locals," Bobby Scheffle, a Wendella tour guide told NBC Chicago. "And always there's a lot of local people that come on when they have guests visiting them in town. They like to show off the city this way."

But there's something else about the experience that makes it so very Chicago.

"I think it is really unique to experience the city from a boat on a river, because we think about other big cities in the United States -- there aren't many that have a river that go right through downtown," Scheffle said. "You feel like you're in the city, you hear the noise, and you see the buildings and all that."

Whether you're taking the ride for the first time or the 50th, bringing out-of-town guests out for a memorable activity or just itching to be a tourist in your own city, here are seven things to know about the Chicago Architecture Boat Tour.

Will weather stop a tour from running?

Wendella's architecture tours run year-round, Sargis said, although "weather is a factor."

Weather events like ice on the river or significant snowfall can impact operations, Sargis said, but they typically don't, since the Chicago River -- a federal waterway -- must remain navigable year-round.

While Wendella's boats do have climate-controlled indoor lounges, tours during the winter may run at limited times. But rain, snow, extreme heat or wind, unflappable Chicagoans still show up.

"We went on drizzly day a few years ago," Kathy Rambo wrote on NBC Chicago's Facebook page. "There were only about 10 of us on the boat!

And most often, the tour will run — rain or shine — so don't hesitate to bring a raincoat.

"I have certainly [given tours] under thunderstorms and downpours, and I've gotten drenched sometimes," Scheffle said. "I've never had a tour get canceled because no one bought a ticket. There's always someone wanting to come out here in the rain or the cold."

What's the best time of year (or day) to go?

It depends on when exactly your favorite time of the year is, and what you're hoping to see.

For Sargis, it's late summer. "There's this point of time in September when the weather is beautiful, but there's not that summer rush."

There are other times that Chicagoans may want to consider, too.

"St. Patrick's Day Celebration when they dye the river, and any Wednesday or Saturday night [over the summer], watching the fireworks over Lake Michigan , especially if you're local" Sargis said.

During the summer months, Wendella's tours run start as early as 9 a.m., with the day's final tour not ending until 10 p.m. or 11 p.m., Scheffle said, "so if you want to come for a ride to see the city lights, you can come late, and it's also beautiful, just a little more difficult to see the colors on the buildings if that's what you want to see."

Laura Pubins, who lives in a suburb outside of Chicago, agrees.

"My favorite one was when we were on a boat at sunset," Pubins wrote to NBC Chicago on Facebook. "It was an awesome new view of the city."

What's the most photogenic spot on the tour?

For Sargis, it's "anything out on Lake Michigan," with the skyline in the background.

On the river though, there's one moment that captures the city best, Scheffle said, no matter what time of day you're taking the trip.

"The best place to take a photo on the 90-minute river tour is when we come up the south branch from Chinatown," Scheffle said. "That's the best place because you get the whole skyline from the south. It's really beautiful."

For locals though, it may not be what you're looking at, so much as how you're looking at it.

"You're looking at [the city] from underneath," said Chicago resident Nick Pappas, 55, who recently found himself on a 90-minute river tour. "It's just a different perspective on the river that you don't get on the street level. As amazing as that sounds, you're only, like, 20 feet down, but it gives you a whole different perspective."

What does the training for a tour guide look like?

According to Sargis, all Wendella tour guides are trained in-house -- and the spots are competitive.

"There's high demand," Sargis said, of the position. "There are more people that want to be tour guides than space available. It's certainly a popular job, and people want to do it." While the tour guide of any given architecture tour isn't made public, many people do request certain ones for private events, Sargis said.

For the tours, there's a general script, with highlights that must be mentioned, Sargis said. But improvisation, along with sharing personal history is encouraged, too.

"All of the tour guides have their own experience in the city, and will add parts of their history in it," Sargis said. "We have a tour guide that is a retired police officer, and he will interject anecdotes form his career. We have a tour guide that's a Vietnam War Veteran, and when we go by the Vietnam War Memorial, he will always discuss the importance of it to him."

For Scheffle, the training included joining multiple tours a week for two weeks and flashcards.

"For a while, I, just drove Uber and Lyft," Scheffle said. "And then, I remembered that I really liked Chicago. I like learning fun facts about it. And there are people in the city that have that as a job -- to tell people fun facts about Chicago and I started looking into tourism jobs in the city."

What's the most common question tour guides get?

Believe it or not, it's not always about The Great Chicago Fire , or Mrs. O'Leary and her cow, at least on Scheffle's tours.

"My favorite thing on the tour that happens is probably when little kids ask questions," Scheffle said. "The common question that a kid will ask, because I talk about the tallest building, second tallest building, third tallest building, a lot of times a kid will ask what's the shortest building in Chicago? Which I don't have a good answer for."

Are you supposed to tip your guide?

"It's up to the discretion of the client," Sargis said. "I would say a lot of our passengers do tip our tour guides."

What's the absolute best part of the tour?

Sure the tour is photogenic, and the city's history is fascinating. And though some may go on the tour to find out what buildings are new, others prefer to think about the old.

"My favorite building to talk about is probably the Board of Trade building," Scheffle said. "Just because I remember walking by it much younger and always, I remember, really being impressed by it, thinking was such a cool big city building."

For a local on the tour, the memories are nice. But a day out on the water in Chicago is just hard to beat.

"It's great. I don't have to work," said Pappas, who has lived in the city for 55 years. "Every time, it's a little treat to go down the river."

Video editors Ivonne Ramirez and DS Shin produced and created the video for this story.

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TripAdvisor users rank the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady as the city's #1 boat tour.

There’s one sure recipe to make your business or social event even more memorable – just add water and Chicago’s First Lady!

Recalling the handsome elegance of 20th century luxury yachts, our vessels are sure to make an impression. Choose from seven perfectly sized ships for your private event.

Your wedding is the start of your lifelong journey together, so begin that journey in a truly memorable way - a wedding cruise down the Chicago River.

Evening River Cruise

Experience our renowned daytime CAC River Cruise in the glow of the setting sun. Take in the city’s magnificent architecture bathed in golden light as it begins its transition from day to night.

“The very best city tour I have been on in my life! We were in America for a month and this was our best morning.” - JurassicBill TripAdvisor, Dorset UK

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Chicago's Best 90-Min Architecture Boat Tour on The Chicago River

Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 10:00am

Experience Chicago's Best 90-Min Architecture Boat Tour starting May 4, 2024! Led by expert tour guides, this is perfect for all ages. Explore the city's landmarks, learn about its history, and enjoy the sights along the Chicago River. 

Additional Dates:

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Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

Experience why we're the #1 rated boat cruise in Chicago, tickets are on sale now for the 2024 season!

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Cape Water Tours and Taxi

Lewes, Delaware

For those wishing to immerse themselves in the idyllic beauty of the Delaware coast, Cape Water Tours and Taxi offers a wide array of top-tier excursions. Seal spotting, dolphin watching, and sunset cruising are all available for booking, while those hoping for a more intimate journey can plan a private charter that fits up to 100 passengers.

Photo courtesy of Matt Stumpf/Capt. Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

Capt. Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

Dana Point, California

Blue whales, orcas, and great white sharks are just a few of the creatures that might make an appearance during a cruise with Capt. Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari. A local favorite due to their highly educated staff and strong commitment to sustainability, the company provides a truly unforgettable viewing experience for guests, thanks to their state-of-the-art underwater viewing pods.

Photo courtesy of Chicago's First Lady Cruises

Chicago's First Lady Cruises

Chicago, Illinois

The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady is led by highly trained docents. On this 90-minute cruise, you'll hear highlights of the city's history, including stories about the visionaries who shaped Chicago's skyline. Options include both daytime tours and evening cocktail cruises.

Photo courtesy of Ultima_Gaina / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Gateway Clipper

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh is home to a particularly high concentration of local water features, and for those hoping to get up-close and personal with each one, a Three Rivers Sightseeing Tour and Cruise is the perfect excursion. Taking place on the storied Gateway Clipper, this voyage offers stunning skyline views alongside fascinating Pennsylvania history all throughout the journey.

Photo courtesy of Holo Holo Charters

Holo Holo Charters

Eleele, Hawaii

With Holo Holo Charters, visitors to Kauai can sail to the forbidden island of Niihau or cruise along the spectacular Na Pali Coast to see its waterfalls, lush valleys, and hidden sea caves from a new perspective.

Photo courtesy of YinYang / E+ Getty Images

Honest Eco Tours

Key West, Florida

Established in 2014, Honest Eco Tours is perfect for discovering the fascinating flora and fauna that call the Florida Keys home. Dolphin sightings abound during the company's curated snorkeling tours, while the summertime Sunset Sail & Reef Snorkel offers a particularly stunning perspective on the surrounding region.

Photo courtesy of Kenai Fjords Tours by Pursuit

Kenai Fjords Tours

Seward, Alaska

Operating out of the scenic city of Seward, Kenai Fjords Tours offer a can't-miss experience that highlights the pristine natural beauty of southern Alaska. While snowcapped mountains and verdant forests will both make an appearance during a national park tour, the excursion also doubles as a safari, with humpback whales, brown bears, and bald eagles all calling the surrounding region home.

Photo courtesy of Little Toot Dolphin Adventure

Little Toot Dolphin Adventure

Clearwater, Florida

Officially founded in 1998, Little Toot Dolphin Adventure shines a spotlight on some of Clearwater's most beloved marine mammals. Daylight and sunset tours are both available for guests to book, with each option offering plenty of wake for the dolphins to play in alongside a cash bar with beer, wine, and soft drinks for passengers.

Photo courtesy of Sharon Sauer

London Bridge Jet Boat Tours

Laughlin, Nevada

Nevada may be dominated by desert, but that doesn't mean its devoid of top-tier water recreation as well, with London Bridge Jet Boat Tours serving as a prime example. During a cruise, guests will straddle the Nevada-Arizona border along the Colorado River, with gorgeous views of London Bridge included on the trip.

Photo courtesy of troutnut / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Major Marine Tours

The spectacular natural beauty of Alaska is on full display with Major Marine Tours, a cruise company that operates out of the scenic city of Seward. The organization offers multiple excursions that highlight the splendor of the Kenai Fjords, while wildlife lovers can spring for an Orca Quest Cruise in hopes of spotting some of the world's most marvelous cetaceans in the flesh.

Photo courtesy of Shelley Lynch Photography

Marine Discovery Center

New Smyrna Beach, Florida

Over 4,000 different plant and animal species call the Indian River Lagoon home, and New Smyrna Beach's Marine Discovery Center offers a wealth of excursions designed to highlight this rich biodiversity. Two-hour dolphin tours are offered on a daily basis during both daylight hours and sunset, while specialty birding excursions take place throughout the winter as well.

Photo courtesy of Moab Jett

Utah's outdoor adventure scene takes on an aquatic edge with Moab Jett, a tour company that showcases the beauty of the Colorado River. Equipped with a fleet of three 10-passenger boats, guests can embark on a thrilling adventure tour that combines natural beauty with top speeds, while the scenic tour is perfect for a relaxing getaway along the water.

Photo courtesy of andieymi / iStock / Getty Images Plus

OC Bay Hopper

Ocean City, Maryland

For any Ocean City visitors hoping to spend a day on the water, the OC Bay Hopper has a wide variety of marine excursions all available for booking. While the Assateague Island Boat Tour is particularly popular for nature lovers, other options offer ghost stories, ice cream, and even the opportunity to barhop at some of the city's most popular pubs.

Photo courtesy of Paul Hamilton / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Rudee Tours

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Just beyond the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, the city's sparkling shores are teeming with native dolphins — and Rudee Tours has perfected the art of finding these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Spanning roughly 90 minutes, each excursion offers guaranteed dolphin sightings paired with added fun facts about the biology and behavior of these fascinating marine mammals.

Photo courtesy of RgStudio / E+ Getty Images

Sail Wild Hearts

Orange Beach, Alabama

Equipped with a spectacular 53-foot sailing catamaran, Sail Wild Hearts provides Alabama visitors with the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Gulf Coast. Wildlife lovers can spring for a daytime dolphin adventure or sunset cruise, while those hoping for a particularly memorable excursion should time their visit with July 4th for the annual Fireworks Sail.

Photo courtesy of Sam Galick

Salt Marsh Safari on The Skimmer

Cape May, New Jersey

New Jersey's Cape May is renowned for its spectacular bird-watching opportunities, and Salt Marsh Safari has mastered the art of showcasing its native species. While guests can spot a wealth of local birds during a classic Salt Marsh Safari tour, aquatic animal aficionados can join in on a Marine Life Safari for a deep dive on the Garden State's crabs, fish, and bivalves.

Photo courtesy of Silver Dollar City Company

Showboat Branson Belle

Branson, Missouri

While downtown Branson is home to its fair share of attractions, visitors can embark on a truly memorable evening excursion just west of the city on the Showboat Branson Belle. Sailing along Table Rock Lake, this charming vessel is best known for its scenic dinner cruises, with live entertainment and a three-course meal included in each ticket.

Photo courtesy of Amphitrite Digital

Tall Ship Windy

The Chicago skyline is particularly marvelous when viewed from Lake Michigan, and the city's Tall Ship Windy is perfectly equipped to showcase its splendor. While classic skyline sails are available during both sunset and daylight hours, the ship also offers dedicated happy hour cruises for those wishing to pair their journey with a perfectly crafted cocktail.

Photo courtesy of Waco Tours

Waco Tours River Cruise

Waco, Texas

Cruise along the serene Brazos River in the heart of Texas for two hours and 15 minutes with Waco Tours. Learn about the history and people of Waco as you see the city from the water and spot local wildlife on the riverbanks.

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The Experts

Chelle koster walton.

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for...   Read More

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jacky Runice

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Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home safety choice and not a coffee order, Jacky Runice has been knocking around Chicago as a professional print, online and broadcast journalist and editor specializing in separating the riff from the raff in culture, entertainment, food, travel and pure unadulterated fun. Jacky is a member of the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). In her best Chicagoese, Jacky asks, "Who has the time or money to blow on hotels, attractions, restaurants, exhibits and activities that blow?"

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Marla Cimini

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Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is:  www.marlacimini.com  

Meg St-Esprit

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Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Molly O'Brien

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Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

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Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of LittleFamilyAdventure.com , the popular family travel & lifestyle website that inspires families to leave no child left inside. Since 2013 LFA has been providing inspiration to get families outdoors, eat well, and travel everywhere from their own backyard to around the world. Always up for a family adventure, she has traveled to 37 states and 6 countries to zip-line through a Costa Rican rainforest, see Finland’s Northern Lights, and go camping throughout the US. Nicky is the co-founder of Tourism WorX a travel consultancy group. Connect with her Twitter  and Instagram .

Olivia Christine Perez

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Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel wellness expert, author, and the creator of  O. Christine : a travel and wellness platform inspiring thousands of people to travel more and get outdoors for their wellness. Living with an autoimmune disease herself, Olivia helps people find wellness through the outdoors, self-care adventures, and mindful travel experiences. You can follow her work at  ochristine.com  and  instagram.com/ochristine.

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival...   Read More

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival Guide  (being released May 25, 2021) and  the founder of 2TravelDads , the original LGBT Family Travel blog. Focusing on ecotourism and education, 2TravelDads inspires LGBT families (and traditional families also) to go beyond their usual getaways and use travel to learn about and be part of a bigger world. 2TravelDads blazes the way for other two-dad and two-mom families to travel to previously overlooked destinations or places we as gay people would normally avoid. We share the struggles we've faced and the surprising gems and welcomes we've had along the way. Traveling as a family is one thing, traveling as an LGBT family is completely something else.

Tamara Gane

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Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

• Guided tour

River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

• Description
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Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

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Who's going.

• Excursion River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat
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See photo of the meeting point