Chicago Downtown Walking Tour & Lake Michigan Cruise Tickets
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Walk beneath Chicago’s soaring skyline, hear its hidden stories, then see it shimmer from the water on a lake cruise. From the iconic Bean to the legendary theatre district, this tour brings the city’s spirit to life—one step and wave at a time.
Highlights:
• Discover downtown Chicago on foot with a 5-Star Private Guide leading the way
• Cruise Lake Michigan with included tickets and audio commentary onboard
• See breathtaking skyline views and snap iconic photos from the water
• Learn the city’s best-kept secrets through fascinating stories and history
• Get tailored recommendations on top spots to eat, visit, and explore next
Did you know there’s a sculpture in Chicago that reflects the whole skyline? With Rosotravel’s private tour, you'll walk through the city’s most iconic spots, then see it all again from the water on a relaxing lake cruise. It's a fun, personal way to experience the best of Chicago in just a few hours.Reserve your spot ow!
Available options
3H: ChicagoDowntown &Cruise EN
Duration: 3 hours: Visit downtown Chicago to see iconic sights like Cloud Gate, the Chicago Theatre, and more, <br/>,: then enjoy skyline views on a Lake Michigan cruise with audio commentary. <br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language - USCH002.
What's included
Personalized tips on the best places to visit, eat, and explore
5-Star Licensed Guide fluent in your chosen language
Private Walking Tour of Downtown Chicago with a Lake Michigan Cruise
Tickets for a 45-minute Lake Michigan Cruise with skyline views and audio commentary
Engaging stories about Chicago’s history, architecture, and culture
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your guide In front of Chicago Athletic Association - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt; 12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, United States. Please do not enter the hotel, it is only a meeting point and the staff is not informed about the tour.
2
Stop 2
Explore Downtown Chicago on a 2-hour private walking tour with tickets for Lake Michigan cruise. Discover downtown Chicago and uncover the stories behind its iconic sights. Start at Cloud Gate—affectionately known as “The Bean”—where your Licensed Guide will share how this shiny steel landmark became a symbol of the city.
3
Stop 3
Walk through Millennium Park to the Millennium Monument, a classical tribute to Chicago’s founders, and pause at the towering Christmas Tree if you're visiting during the festive season.
4
Pass by the Marshall Field and Company Building, once home to one of America’s most luxurious department stores. Your guide will fill you in on its elegant architecture and retail legacy
5
Stop 5
Then admire the glittering lights of the historic Chicago Theatre and hear how it helped shape the city’s performing arts scene.Then admire the glittering lights of the historic Chicago Theatre and hear how it helped shape the city’s performing arts scene. Nearby, your guide will also introduce the American Writers Museum—an homage to the storytellers who shaped American culture.
6
End your walk at the dock for some shoreline sightseeing and set sail on a 45-minute Lake Michigan cruise. Listen to fascinating audio commentary as the city’s skyline unfolds before you. It’s a relaxing way to wrap up your journey and see Chicago from a whole new angle, including landmarks such as the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City. There’s no rushing, no crowds—enjoy every moment at your own pace!
What's not included
Tickets to attractions
Food and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please check your email the day before the tour for important details from Rosotravel, your tour operator.
This tour includes a 45-minute sightseeing cruise—please arrive on time for smooth boarding.
Your Private Guide will escort you to the dock and provide all information but will not join you on the cruise.
Audio commentary is available in English aboard the cruise, Please bring a valid photo ID or passport.
This is a moderate walking tour covering 2 km with some uneven surfaces and steps. Your guide will adapt the pace to your group.
Please wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately—the tour runs rain or shine!
Have a special request or need accessibility support? Let us know in advance—we're happy to help!
Meeting point
Meet your guide In front of Chicago Athletic Association - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt; 12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, United States. Please do not enter the hotel, it is only a meeting point and the staff is not informed about the tour.
Important notes
Information for the customer (Know before you go)
• Please check your email the day before the tour for important details from Rosotravel, your tour operator.
• This tour includes a 45-minute sightseeing cruise—please arrive on time for smooth boarding.
• Your Private Guide will escort you to the dock and provide all information but will not join you on the cruise.
• Audio commentary is available in English aboard the cruise, Please bring a valid photo ID or passport.
• This is a moderate walking tour covering 2 km with some uneven surfaces and steps. Your guide will adapt the pace to your group.
• Please wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately—the tour runs rain or shine!
• Have a special request or need accessibility support? Let us know in advance—we're happy to help!
About Chicago
Chicago is a vibrant city known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and world-class cuisine. Situated along the shores of Lake Michigan, it offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe.
Top Attractions
Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a famous public park in downtown Chicago, known for its modern art and architecture. It's home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as 'The Bean'.
Park
1-2 hours
Free
Art Institute of Chicago
One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, the Art Institute of Chicago houses an impressive collection of artworks from around the world.
Museum
2-3 hours
$25 (adults), Free for children under 14
Skydeck Chicago
Located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, Skydeck Chicago offers breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan. Visitors can step out onto The Ledge, a glass balcony extending out from the building.
Observation Deck
1-2 hours
$28 (adults), $20 (children 3-11)
Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan. It offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and rides.
Entertainment
2-4 hours
Free to enter, individual attractions have varying costs
Wrigley Field
Wrigley Field is a historic baseball park located on the North Side of Chicago. It's home to the Chicago Cubs and offers a unique atmosphere for sports fans.
Sports
2-4 hours (game duration varies)
Ticket prices vary depending on the game and seating
Must-Try Local Dishes
Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust filled with layers of cheese, toppings, and tomato sauce. It's a Chicago classic and a must-try for pizza lovers.
Dinner
Contains gluten and dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some restaurants.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
A steamed or grilled all-beef hot dog topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt, all served on a poppy seed bun.
Snack
Contains gluten and dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some hot dog stands.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced beef cooked in its own juices and served on an Italian roll. It's typically dipped in the juices and topped with sweet or hot peppers.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains gluten and beef. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some Italian beef restaurants.
Chicago-Style Popcorn
A sweet and savory snack made with caramel and cheese-flavored popcorn, often sold in colorful boxes at street corners and ballgames.
Snack
Contains dairy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some popcorn stands.
Popular Activities
Kayaking on the Chicago River
Biking along Lake Michigan
Rock climbing at First Ascent
Picnicking in Millennium Park
Yoga in the park
Spa treatments at The Peninsula Chicago
Visiting the Art Institute of Chicago
Attending a performance at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Chicago for outdoor activities, festivals, and sightseeing. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's parks and attractions.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Polish, Chinese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Chicago is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Some areas of the city have higher crime rates, and visitors should research their destinations before traveling.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Avoid walking alone in isolated or poorly lit areas, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- O'Hare International Airport • 27 km (17 miles) from city center
- Midway International Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center
By train
Union Station, Ogilvie Transportation Center
By bus
Greyhound Station, Megabus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The 'L' is a convenient and affordable way to get around Chicago. It consists of eight color-coded lines.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
The Loop
Lincoln Park
Wicker Park
Magnificent Mile
Pilsen
Day trips
Navy Pier
2 km (1.2 miles) • Half day to full day
Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan. It offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and rides.
Wrigley Field
10 km (6.2 miles) • Half day to full day
Wrigley Field is a historic baseball park located on the North Side of Chicago. It's home to the Chicago Cubs and offers a unique atmosphere for sports fans.
Museum Campus
3 km (1.9 miles) • Half day to full day
The Museum Campus is a 57-acre park located on the southern tip of Grant Park in Chicago. It's home to several world-class museums, including the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium.
Festivals
Lollapalooza • Early August (4-day festival)
Chicago Jazz Festival • Late August to early September (weekend festival)
Chicago Food Festival • Early September (weekend festival)
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and long wait times
- Use the Ventra card for easy and convenient payments on public transportation
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods and culinary scene to get a true sense of Chicago's character and culture
- Take an architecture river cruise to see the city's stunning skyline and learn about its architectural history
- Visit the city's many parks and outdoor spaces to enjoy nature and outdoor activities, even in the heart of the city
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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