Boat Tours
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Boat Tours
Lake Michigan and the Chicago River offer exciting views of the city's sites and history.
- Exploring Chicago's Yeast Side: Sunday, May 18
- Daily History Cruises: May 23–September 1
- Devil in the White City: Sundays, June 1, August 3, and September 21
- Stars and Stripes Summer Sail: Wednesday, June 25
- Paddle into the Past Kayak Tour: Saturdays, June 28, July 12, and August 9
- Summer Sunrise Java Jaunt: Sunday, July 20
- Chicago Blues Cruise: Thursday, August 14
- As Seen from the Lake: Sunday, September 14
Soak up Chicago’s history as you cruise the shores of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River on our unique boat tours. Non-alcoholic beverages and light snacks included. Presented in partnership with Chicago Line Cruises.
Location:
Tours meet at the Chicago Line Cruises dock at North Pier, 465 N. McClurg Court.
Cost:
$45; $40 members.
Evening cruises include an open bar option, available for an
additional $17, to be paid on board.
Exploring Chicago's Yeast Side: A History of Beer
Sunday, May 18, 6:30–9:00 p.m.
Back by popular demand! Before Milwaukee claimed the title of beer capital of the Midwest, there was Chicago! Discover the city’s golden age of brewing on this sunset tour complete with beer tastings provided by Berghoff Brewery.
Devil in the White City
Sundays, June 1, August 3, and September 21, 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Discover the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition and the devilish doings of H. H. Holmes, as described in Erik Larson’s best-selling book. Sail past sites related to the fair and learn about its lasting legacy. This tour includes snacks showcased at the fair and other surprises!
Sunday, June 1
> This event is sold out.
Sunday, August 3
> Purchase tickets
Sunday, September 21
> Purchase tickets
Stars and Stripes Summer Sail
Wednesday, June 25, 8:00–10:00 p.m.
Join us for a pre-Fourth of July celebration. Enjoy a patriotic summer evening with live music as a dazzling fireworks display lights up the sky.
Summer Sunrise Java Jaunt
Sunday, July 20, 9:00–11:00 a.m.
Wake up with the Chicago History Museum and Metropolis Coffee Company, the 2007 Roaster of the Year! Tony Dreyfuss, Metropolis Coffee guru, will discuss the history of the coffee industry and trace the journey from bean to cup. Enjoy tastings from Metropolis and drink in the sights of the city as you take a relaxing summer sunrise tour.
Chicago Blues Cruise
Thursday, August 14, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Discover Chicago’s blues history and enjoy live music from local musicians as you coast through the city’s blue waters.
As Seen from the Lake: Cosmopolitan Chicago in Film and TV
Sunday, September 14, 6:00–9:00 p.m.
Explore the waterfront perspective of our Midwestern metropolis on this evening cruise with historian Sarah Marcus. Discover how filmmakers and television producers have used the waterfront to create iconic images of Chicago.
Daily History Cruises
May 23–September 1, 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.
Prepare to embark on a voyage where history lessons come alive on the city’s celebrated waterways.
Cost:
$34 adults, $32 seniors (65+), $20 youth (7-18), free for children under 7. Members receive a $10 discount.
> Visit www.chicagoline.com for details and to purchase tickets.
Paddle into the Past Kayak Tour
Saturdays, June 28, July 12, and August 9, 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Paddle into the past and dive into Chicago’s history! Join your professional guide as you kayak amongst the architectural canyons of the Chicago River. This three hour tour is a workout for both your brain and body! No experience needed. Kayak rental included.
Cost:
$55, $50 members.
Saturday, June 28
> Purchase tickets
Saturday, July 12
> This event is sold out.
Saturday, August 9
> Purchase tickets
Refund Policy:
Refunds for a tour will be given in the form of tour credit which can
be applied to another tour. Credit will be given with a minimum of two
weeks notice prior to the day of the tour. No exceptions.
Sign Language Interpretation:
The Chicago History Museum is happy to offer sign language
interpretation at any of its public programs. Please contact the Public
Programs Manager, at least 48 hours prior to the day of the event in
order to accommodate this request 312.642.4600