Chicago is one of the best American cities for fans of stylish urban architecture. The Windy City is home to gorgeous neoclassical structures such as the Tribune Tower; ornate Beaux-Arts monuments like the Wrigley Building, and impressive Mid-Century buildings such as the former Sears Tower, now known as the Willis Tower. You can see all these world-class architectural landmarks when you visit Chicago, and the best vantage point for such tours is from the waterline.
An architectural cruise of Chicago can give you great perspectives of the city’s landmarks as you glide down the Chicago River. You can board sightseeing ferries right from the Riverwalk terminal; check for the boats offering tours guided by volunteers trained by the Chicago Architecture Center. These ferries navigate the waterways while letting you see hidden gems and unique angles that you can’t appreciate from the street. Seeing the skyline from the river gives you a chance to see the interplay of light and shadow across the structures, thus creating many Instagram-worthy moments along the way.
If you are into side-by-side architectural comparisons, a cruise down the Chicago River is highly recommended because the ferry gently moves across the water at speeds conducive to sightseeing. All along the voyage, volunteers tell you about the lives of the architects, their inspirations, and the historical context that shaped their masterpieces. This can help you get a deeper understanding of Chicago’s architectural heritage and evolution.
Want to learn about the best architectural cruise in Chicago? Visit today and get to know Chicago’s First Lady, home to the finest fleet in the Windy City.
