Chicago is known for its skyscrapers and modern architecture. According to the Chicago Architecture Foundation, the city holds an "outstanding architectural legacy." Chicago was once home to the world's tallest building and also is home to the work of famous architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright, James Ingo Freed and Ben Weese. Some consider river cruises the best way to explore the city's architecture.
Claiming to be the "best 90 minutes a visitor can spend anywhere in the city," Chicago Line Cruises offers excursions aboard the Fort Dearborn throughout the city. While cruising along the river, expert guides point out the work of Bertrand Goldberg, Fazlur Khan, Frank Gehry and Mies van der Rohe. Highlights include landmarks such as Trump Tower, the Michigan Avenue Bridge and Grant Park.
Chicago Line Cruises
455 Illinois St. Suite 361
Chicago, IL 60611
312-527-1977
chicagoline.com
The Chicago Architecture Foundation offers river cruises in which expert guides teach you about 50 buildings throughout the city. Board the First Lady for a look at landmarks such as Merchandise Mart and the Tribune Tower. The First Lady has both open air and air-conditioned seating.
Chicago Architecture Foundation
333 North Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60601
1-847-358-1330
cruisechicago.com
Shoreline Sightseeing takes you down all three branches of the Chicago River to view the city's many skyscrapers.
You'll learn about Chicago's rebound from the Great Fire of 1871 and cruise past the work of Mies van der Rohe and Helmut Jahn and Skidmore. If you catch the cruise in the summer on a Wednesday or Saturday night, you will see fireworks set off by the city.
Shoreline Sightseeing
474 N. Lake Shore Drive
Suite 3511
Chicago, IL 60611
312-222-9328
shorelinesightseeing.com
