Wendella Tours & Cruises - Chicago, Illinois

Juliet

We did the 45 minute boat tour at night around Christmas time and it was definitely the highlight of our trip. It was so informational and engaging while being able to take in some breathtaking views. The staff are so kind and make you feel so special. There were seats but many chose to walk around to take some pics but be warned you shouldn’t use flash near the captain. It gets kinda windy at night so be prepared. I saw many tourists and locals alike so definitely good to go with friends or family. Even my little brothers were very entertained. Must do!

Meghan D.

We absolutely loved our tour on the Wendella! The guide was super knowledgeable and enthusiastic about his history on Chicago. I love when people know their stuff and enjoy their job. We sat on the lower deck to get some shade since it was sunny. If you want to see both sides at the same time, sit up top. The margaritas were great!

Sara G.

This is the best way to experience Chicago’s iconic skyline, the Wendella River Cruise. And, it prepares you for Chicago trivia.

The tour has fantastic views of some of the most famous buildings in the city. I gotta say the Morse Code Building at 150 North Riverside was my favorite. The facade spells out the building’s address in Morse code. About as clever as you get in architecture.

I have to mention the new St. Regis Chicago, designed by Jeanne Gang, making it the tallest building in the world designed by a woman.

The cruise also highlights the iconic Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), once the tallest building in the world.

If you’re a history buff nerd like me and you love to learn, do it amongst the city views!

Pro Tip: Try to book a late afternoon or early evening cruise to see the skyline light up as the sun sets.

Steve B.

I’d highly recommend the evening sunset and lake cruise with this company. The boarding process was clearly explaining and signposted, with the whole process efficiently handled. There’s plenty of seating on the boat and even when full each position gives prime views.

There was a small amount of ‘commentary’ at the start of the trip which was entertaining and educational, but the majority of the time was spent out of the lake with music, with adequate time to admire the whole length of the city skyline and the incredible sunset. There is a bar onboard and a small toilet, as well as seating inside should the weather not be great. Once out on the lake you’re able to move around freely too.

Great value for money and a wonderful way to get the perfect perspective on the city - highly recommended.

tiago S.

I went during fall on a weekday. I bought tickets in advance and had a great experience with Wendella!
I took the 90 minute tour, and what an amazing experience it was, probably one of the best attractions the city of Chicago has to offer. The boat was right on time, and the whole trip took exactly the 90 minutes promised. It was a little chilly, but there is heat on the boat and the first floor is all closed if you prefer, you would still have some view of the city through the windows, but I would definitely recommend staying on the second floor, so you can watch the tour guider and have a more complete experience (you can hear the tour on the floor below as well). The bar is located on the first floor, I ordered a beverage and you can take with you to the second floor. The tour guider was amazing, very fun and informative at the same time. Staff very friendly and polite.
I definitely recommend it!

Louise S.

I have visited Chicago many times, but this December was the first time I took advantage of the Wendella Cruise on the Chicago Riverfront. The ride was very smooth. We took the 4pm cruise. We sat outside which was great for photography. It became a wee bit chilly after sunset, but worth sitting outside to see all the holiday lights and take in the river breezes! The tour also was very informative and interesting. A good dose of humor was interspersed by our tour guide to make it fun and fascinating!

There is an inside area for those who don't want to be outside. You also can buy drinks and snacks. Bathrooms also are available on the boat. Lots of room and you don't feel overly crowded.

Our tour was 90 minutes and that seemed like a perfect amount of time.

Very enjoyable and I would consider coming back during the day.

Madison W.

The architecture boat tour was a highlight of our trip! Even in the cold and rain, the experience was absolutely worth it. Learning the history and stories behind Chicago’s stunning skyline was fascinating, and the views from the water were incredible. Tickets were $44 per person, and we treated ourselves to drinks on board for $27, which added to the fun. This is a must-do activity when visiting Chicago, rain or shine!

Suzanne R.

It was a beautiful tour we did 45 min 7:00 pm was totally worth it to see the buildings all lit up. However was pretty cold for me on the water so bundle up if you're going when it's chilly. The tour guide was funny.