Willis, you will always be Sear’s Tower to me from the Chicago River architectural boat cruise
One of the standard tourist activities in Chicago which is a must is the architectural boat cruise down the Chicago River with Wendella. I live in Chicago and this is one of those items I do every time someone comes from out of town or I suggest for those coming for a visit.
I have toured the downtown area via the river twice through an architectural boat cruise and once by canoe. I would do either tomorrow in a heart beat, so it is as enjoyable for locals as it is for visitors. The first time I did the boat cruise, I listened intently to the narrator and learned the history of all the beautiful buildings and the history of the city and the river. This time I talked with friends and just watched the scenery.
Whether you want to learn about Chicago history and buildings, or if you want to tune it out, you will enjoy the tour either way. The cruise is also enjoyable rain or shine. The first time I went it was sunny and beautiful, and when I canoed the river it was hot and sunny. This time it was cloudy, rainy, and a little bleak, but the clouds provided interesting photos and did not dampen the spirit of the tour.
The tour begins down the stairs from the Wrigley Building
The tour meets at the Wrigley Building, which is located at 400 N. Michigan Avenue. Check groupons for frequent awesome deals on the trip. We bought our tickets for $18.00 with a free drink. For a different perspective, try the Chicago River by canoe or kayak (see the video near the top of the article). Boats can be rented via Kayak Chicago or the Chicago River Canoe and Kayak.
Chicago River with the Marina Towers to the left
Passing another boat along the Chicago River
The boat that left just before ours near the Wrigley Building
I don’t know the names of these buildings as I was drinking and talking
The iconic Willis Tower as seen from the Chicago River
Interesting apartment building along the Chicago River
Chicago River
The turn around point near the confluence with Lake Michigan
For those who choose to listen, the narrator does a great job with the tour
Stay tuned,
TT
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This is awesome. I wish I had time to do this when I was in Chicago. So much to do – must go back!
Hope you can make it back Cal!
I’ve never been down the river there. It’s been many years since I’ve been to Chicago. I need to go back and visit. The last time I was there, Andre Dawson was the man for the Cubs and I saw a game in Wrigley Field.
Jeremy Branham recently posted..Scottish clans, a Maori tribe, and a World War II hero
Wow, that is a pretty long time ago Jeremy. You need to return.
You should also check out a Sox game – the food at that ballpark is great, as far as ballparks go! 🙂
Pola recently posted..Photo Focus: The Chicago River
I concur Pola, and the team is much more interesting.
This was truly a great experience Ted, thanks for the wonderful job and great pictures of a truly beautiful city. It has been a long tome since I was there and it brought back hazy but fun memories.
Robb,
After showing you around jungle, trails, and canoeing, I thought I would get civilized for once and show you the big city.
Nice shots Ted, especially the turnaround point and the view down from the bridge. I can’t believe it took me over a decade to repeat the tour, it’s a lot of fun!
Pola recently posted..Photo Focus: The Chicago River
This same photo was featured in Aaron’s blog as well. Interesting about the similarities and differences between our posts.
Great skyline and building shots Ted! Love the upper-deck shot with Navy Pier straight ahead. It will always be Sears Tower to me too.
Aaron recently posted..Photo(s) of the Week: An Exchequer Deep Dish Pizza in Chicago.
Willis Tower reminds me Different Strokes. Watchu talking about Willis Tower!
This is a big Chicago draw for me personally..thanks for the heads up.
Cheers…
Charles Higgins recently posted..Dennis Quaid portrays Sheriff Ralph Lamb in new fall 2012 TV series
Hope you can make it out here sometime Charles!