chicago water tour

• Architecture River Tour

Windy City wow

World-famous landmarks.

There’s nothing quite like seeing Chicago’s world-famous architecture from all three branches of the Chicago River. From hidden treasures to the city’s most well-known sights, you’ll view over 40 Chicago landmarks on our 75-minute Architecture River Boat Tours. 

Enjoy the spectacular views as you listen to our tour guides tell you how Chicago’s buildings, architecture, and engineering made the city famous.

Casting off

Our Architecture River Tours depart from two docks, one at Michigan Avenue and the other at Navy Pier. No matter which dock you depart from, you’ll see all of the spectacular sights as you tour the Chicago River.

Michigan Avenue

401 N. Michigan Ave

Steps off of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, our Michigan Avenue dock starts your tour in the heart of the Chicago River.

124 N. Streeter Drive

Start your tour down the Chicago River at our Navy Pier dock, which sits at the entrance to the iconic Navy Pier boardwalk. This dock is more accessible to wheelchairs.

Our Architecture River Tour takes you up and down the three branches of the Chicago River, providing breathtaking views of Chicago’s famous skyscrapers and landmarks at every turn.

Adults: $49.95

Children (3-12): $26.95

Children 2 and under: Free

Tour highlights:

• 75-minute, guided boat tour
• Unique views from the water create an entirely new perspective of the city
• 40+ landmarks including the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City
• Hear the stories of Chicago’s architects and engineers while viewing their magnificent buildings

Sightseeing in Chicago?

Chicago CityPASS® tickets save 48% on premier admission  to Chicago’s top 5 attractions, including the Architecture River Tour. Visit the attractions at your own pace, in any order, over a 9-day period. One easy purchase and mobile ticket delivery saves you time and money.

Book an Architecture River Tour

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Skyline Lake Tour

Save 48% at 5 top attractions

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Please select Navy Pier. (Skyline Lake Tours are unavailable from Michigan Avenue.)

600 E. Grand Ave

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Note: Fireworks tours available Wednesday and Saturday evenings in the summer.

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Now in its 83rd season, Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis.

(312) 222-9328 ext. 1 [email protected]

• Skyline Tour
• Fireworks Tour
• Water Taxis
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The 15 best boat tours in Chicago

See the skyline from dazzling new vantage points aboard one of the best boat tours in Chicago

Sure, walks along Michigan Avenue and State Street are nice and rooftop bars offer plenty of pretty sights – but the best way to see downtown Chicago is from the water. Both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan offer unparalleled vantage points for taking in the city’s world-famous architecture and the breathtaking Chicago skyline , with many of the tours providing unique insights into the city’s culture and history.

From architecture tours and history lessons to  straightforward sightseeing affairs , romantic excursions and pirate-themed family fun, there's a Chicago cruise for every groove. Below we’ve got the essential list of the city’s finest waterborne tours, including tall-mast ships and glitzy speed boats. Bon voyage!  

RECOMMENDED: Find more to explore with the best things to do in Chicago Plan your trip with the  best hotels in Chicago

How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favorites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links – these have no influence on our editorial content – we pinky swear. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines .

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Best Chicago boat tours

1.  1.5-Hour Guided Architecture River Cruise

Departing from Navy Pier's Polk Bros Park or the northeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, this 60-minute trip packs in all of the architectural sights that visitors want to see. Tour guides highlight more than 40 towering Chicago landmarks, including the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City (a.k.a. "The Corncobs" or " The Wilco Building "). 

Don't miss:  Locally sourced food and drink from the boat bar.  

2.  Seadog River and Lake Architectural Tour

There are few more iconic Chicago sights than seeing the bright yellow Seadog speeding around town. Combining speed and sightseeing, Seadog’s architecture tour whizzes guests past the likes of the Willis Tower and Lyric Opera, all while arming you with an impressive load of facts about the Windy City. And after this blustery 75-minute tour has finished traversing the Chicago River, it ends with a thrilling whizz across Lake Michigan, past Museum Campus, and Grant Park. This one departs from Seadog’s dock at Navy Pier throughout the summer months.

Don't miss:  Local beer, spirits and Garrett's Popcorn at the boat bar.

3.  Wendella: Chicago's Original Family-Friendly Architecture Tour

If you're weighing your options, Wendella's architecture tour (which it claims is Chicago's original ) is another way to explore all of the beautiful structures that line the river. Over the course of the 90-minute tour, you'll navigate all three branches of the Chicago River, while your guide fills you in on the stories behind some of the skyline's most prominent edifices. This tour departs from the Wendella Dock, located at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at the foot of the Wrigley Building.

Don't miss: Live commentary from the tour guide, with material to entertain the whole family. 

4.  1.5-Hour Romantic Sunset Cruise

How do you end the perfect day of sightseeing? With the perfect sunset, obvs. Setting off from Wendella Dock (at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at the foot of the Wrigley Building), this 90-minute cruise will breeze along Lake Michigan as the glint of the sun on Chicago's skyscrapers is replaced by twinkling city lights. 

Don't miss: Toasting to the end of the day with wine, local beer and hand-crafted cocktails.

5.  Tall Ship Windy Architecture & Skyline Sailing Tour

Let the wind carry you to stunning views of the city from aboard the Tall Ship Windy, a four-masted, 148-foot topsail schooner. The 75-minute trip cruise brings guests on a scenic route running along the Lake Michigan shoreline, where you can take in lovely skyline vistas and glimpses of the sunset. Head to the onboard bar to find snacks and drinks for sale. 

Don't miss:  Bring the kids for the special pirate-themed cruise, featuring  tales of swashbuckling  on the Great Lakes.  

6.  Seadog Speedboat Tour

If you balk at the idea of traipsing around museums and galleries all day with just your legs for locomotion, this whistle-stop boat ride is the tour for you. See every worthy Chicago landmark in 30 minutes on Seadog’s speedboat, which can sometimes feel like a floating rollercoaster. Launching from Navy Pier, the captain will efficiently guide you (with a running commentary) around Lake Michigan, past Museum Campus, Magnificent Mile, Grant Park, and more.

Don't miss: Upgrade to the Extreme Thrill Ride, which includes full 360° spins and more. 

7.  Lake Michigan Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

Want to see Chicago from the water but don't have much time to spare? You can peep the skyline in just 30 minutes on Shoreline's Classic Lake Tour, which departs from Navy Pier and boasts some of the best views you'll find on Lake Michigan. The commentary on the city's architecture and history is pre-recorded, so you won't miss out on any information because your guide ran out of time (and if you've heard it before, you can sit back and enjoy those sweet, sweet sights).

Don't miss: Proceeding straight to the boarding line with a barcode that lets you skip the ticket office. 

8.  Lake Michigan Gourmet Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a three-course gourmet dinner on the water in the Odyssey Chicago, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the skyline surrounding you. Departing from Navy Pier, this cruise includes a dinner with freshly prepared entrées, mains, and desserts. The 2.5 or 3-hour ride takes you around Lake Michigan, with a cash bar to keep the drinks flowing throughout your meal.

Don't miss: The live DJ set and unlimited tea and coffee.

9.  Chicago's Lake Michigan Kayak Tour

If you want to couple a workout with your sightseeing, consider touring Lake Michigan by kayak. The rental lasts one hour and if you've never kayaked before, don't worry – tandem kayaks are available for less experienced guests. The meeting point is at Ohio Street Beach and you'll be provided with a life jacket on arrival before paddling out onto Chicago's most incredible river view.

Don't miss: Take a break along the urban beachfront, with the chance to also rent stand-up paddle boards.  

10.  Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch Cruise

If you're looking for dinner with a view, you could do worse than watching the sunset against the skyline aboard this 2.5 or 3-hour Lake Michigan brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise. Grab a group of friends and book a table – ideally one with a window-facing view—for a buffet-style meal before making your way to the dancefloor for an evening of DJ-curated music. Unlimited coffee, tea, and water will be on hand.

Don't miss: Creative signature cocktails at the bar. 

11.  Lake Michigan Odyssey Gourmet Lunch Cruise

Why settle for lunch at a land-bound restaurant when you could eat your meal on Lake Michigan? The Odyssey's lunch cruise includes a three-course meal and all the coffee, hot tea, iced tea and water you can drink. Visit the cash bar to buy wine, beer and cocktails and enjoy the views on this two-hour tour.

Don't miss: Dance on the top deck to tunes played out by the onboard DJ. 

12.  Chicago Fireboat Tours Historical and Architectural Cruise

Hosted on the bright red Fred A. Busse Fireboat – which served the Chicago Fire Department until 1981 – this architectural tour of the Chicago River lasts anywhere from 90 minutes to two hours. A docent will fill you in on the history of buildings lining the river as well as the story of the boat you've boarded, which formerly traveled the city's waterways to fight fires. 

Don't miss: Check out the vintage firefighting artifacts and photos on board. 

13.  Lady Grebe Chicago River Experience

Want to feel extra posh? Grab a group of up to six friends and book a private cruise aboard Lady Grebe, a 48-foot vintage yacht that can be reserved for two-hour trips along the Chicago River. The reservation comes with a premium drinks package and you can also opt to kick things up a notch with picnic baskets full of food or full-service catering. 

Don't miss:  Book a Chicago Architecture Center docent to give a guided tour for an educational twist.

14.  Chicago Electric Boat Company Tour

Go your own way. Be your own captain. That’s what’s on offer with this Chicago River tour. The Chicago Electric Boat Company lets passengers steer the ship themselves (if they’ve got a valid driver’s license and watched a 10-minute tutorial, that is), allowing total freedom on the Windy City’s waterways. If you’re looking to still have some kind of tour, you can hire a personal tour guide—and we haven’t even gotten to the best bit. These boats are all electric, so they’re a little bit more environmentally friendly, too.

Don't miss: Hot tub boat rentals are also available.

15.  Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise Aboard Chicago’s First Lady

There's a reason the Chicago Architecture Foundation's beloved tour has been named the Best Boat Tour in the U.S.  The center’s official tour goes into detail on more than 50 buildings both on the riverfront and beyond. In doing so, they give a fascinating history of the city and those that built it—plus you can easily upgrade your ticket to include entry to just Chicago Architecture Center itself. It’s a proper design enthusiast’s dream. This one leaves from the Chicago First Lady Cruises dock and lasts around 90 minutes. 

Don't miss:  Gather friends for the serene evening cruise for just a few dollars more.

GYG Chicago TTD

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Architecture Tour

TripAdvisor users rank the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady as the city's #1 boat tour.

There’s one sure recipe to make your business or social event even more memorable – just add water and Chicago’s First Lady!

Recalling the handsome elegance of 20th century luxury yachts, our vessels are sure to make an impression. Choose from seven perfectly sized ships for your private event.

Your wedding is the start of your lifelong journey together, so begin that journey in a truly memorable way - a wedding cruise down the Chicago River.

Evening River Cruise

Experience our renowned daytime CAC River Cruise in the glow of the setting sun. Take in the city’s magnificent architecture bathed in golden light as it begins its transition from day to night.

“The very best city tour I have been on in my life! We were in America for a month and this was our best morning.” - JurassicBill TripAdvisor, Dorset UK

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"What an amazing experience, this tour brings all the beautiful architecture and history to life.” - Rachel M Yelp, Arizona, USA

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

Experience why we're the #1 rated boat cruise in Chicago, tickets are on sale now for the 2024 season!

Buy Tickets

Voted as one of the Top 10 Boat Tours in North America by USA Today readers for 3 years in a row and Chicago Reader's Best Tour for over 10 years ! Looking for the ultimate Chicago architecture experience? Buy a combo ticket for the river cruise AND visit the Chicago Architecture Center—you'll save $9!

For more than 25 years, the CAC's expertly trained docent volunteers have led the CAC River Cruise, sharing fascinating stories behind more than 50 buildings along the Chicago River. Hear how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world's largest cities in less than 100 years. In just 90 minutes, you'll get the best overview of Chicago’s architecture and its history.

The CAC River Cruise is available in 4 languages: Continental French, Latin American Spanish, Japanese and Korean. To access these languages, please download the "Listen Everywhere" app in advance. Once you are on board the boat, the app will connect and allow you to listen in your selected language as the boat makes its way down the river.

*Continue your exploration with a visit to the CAC! Combo tickets include admission to the Center for just $5 (regular price $14). Admission is valid up to 7 days before or after your cruise.

*Please note that infant tickets must be purchased with a Priority or General Boarding Adult ticket. 

Evening River Cruise

The city's most popular tour is now offered in the evening. Serene and bathed in softer light, the city's architecture takes on a whole new life in the setting sun. Wind-down from the work-week by enjoying a cocktail with friends and family and experience Chicago's skyline on our luxury boats.

All departures lATER THAN 5:00 PM

• CAC Members please call 312.922.8687 or come to the CAC Box Office at 111 E. Wacker Drive to redeem your BOGO benefit. 
• You can buy a CAC membership over the phone and redeem your BOGO annual benefit at the time of your membership purchase.
• Each person must have a ticket, including infants and children.
• All tours depart rain or shine.
• Arrive 30 minutes prior to your cruise departure time. Allow extra time for traffic and parking in summer.
• Cruise guests board 15 minutes before departure time.
• GENERAL ADMISSION SEATING
• A full-service bar and snack bar are available onboard.
• Tickets start at $54.00 for daytime cruises, $59.00 for evening cruises. Upgrade your ticket for $5 to include Chicago Architecture Center admission. Your visit must occur within 7 days before or after your tour.  View the CAC's hours .
• Tickets may not be refunded or exchanged if you miss your boat. Allow extra time.
• Find more information, including available parking, in our FAQs

Interested in a tour for a group of 20 or more? Please contact our group sales team at [email protected] . Private rentals are available.

Directions to Chicago’s First Lady boat dock

See a map here  or enter 112 E. Wacker Drive into your GPS. Located at the northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, a black awning marks the boat dock entrance stairs that lead down to the river. If you have limited mobility, see these directions  for an alternative way to reach the dock.

About our Boat Partner

We’re proud to partner with Chicago’s First Lady Cruises, operator of Chicago’s finest fleet of cruising vessels. Its boats hold up to 250 passengers and feature open-air upper decks, full-service bars, climate-controlled lower cabins and upscale marble and granite restrooms. Being onboard is sure to be an experience you'll never forget. 

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Upcoming Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady Tours

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Highlights of this Tour

Chicago Riverwalk

1 w. lower wacker drive.

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Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

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trunnion bascule bridge

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435 n. michigan ave..

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360 n. michigan ave..

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330 North Wabash / AMA Plaza (IBM Plaza)

330 n. wabash ave..

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150 North Riverside

150 n. riverside.

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333 w. wacker dr..

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222 w. merchandise mart plaza.

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CHICAGO'S ORIGINAL ARCHITECTURE TOUR®

BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE

Choose your adventure, chicago river architecture tour (90 minutes).

Take in the world-renowned architecture as our expert guides tell the story of 130 years of architectural innovation.

We like our drinks stiff, not our tour guides.

Chicago River Architecture Tour (45 minutes)

This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length architecture tours.

The Ultimate Chicago experience.

We're In the People Business

This was one tour that I can honestly say was worth doing & probably should be a must do/ see on your visit to Chicago.

Ginette, 2023

We were recommended the architecture boat tour by a few locals and it was absolutely amazing!! Beautiful views from anywhere you sat and an extremely knowledgeable and funny tour guide led the trip. Great value for money and so so worth it. Thank you!!

Jessica W, 2024

The skyline was beautiful and the buildings all shined differently. Pictures come out amazing!

Christina, 2023

SEE FOR YOURSELF

Book your experience now.

Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours

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Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Make the most of warm summer weather by getting groups out on the waterfront. Whether your groups want to experience Chicago architecture boat tours or Chicago River tours — or even sunset dinner cruises — there are a number of options to choose from when crafting that perfect day on the water. Afterward, head to one of Chicago’s lively waterfront restaurants for an unforgettable dining experience.

Chicago architecture boat tours

Chicago First Lady Cruises

As the official cruise line of the Chicago Architecture Foundation , expect an informative and professional experience as groups are introduced to the architecture and design of more than 50 buildings, with the guidance of a CAF-certified volunteer. Open-air and air-conditioned seating is available. Tours depart from Chicago Riverwalk, 112 E. Upper Wacker Drive

Chicago Line Cruises Book Chicago Line Cruise ‘s tour, presented by Chicago’s oldest museum: the Chicago History Museum River Cruise. This 90-minute cruise will present fascinating facts and insight into Chicago’s history and architecture. Tours depart from 465 N. McClurg Ct.

Shoreline Sightseeing

Wendella Tours & Cruises

Kayaking in Chicago

Chicago Water Sport Rentals at 31st Street Harbor For active groups looking to enjoy the waterfront, rent kayaks and explore Lake Michigan with a morning of paddling. 3155 S. Lake Shore Drive

Urban Kayaks Rent kayaks or take a guided tours of the Chicago River or Lake Michigan with Urban Kayaks . They offer various guided tours, including sunset and historical paddles, plus paddleboard rentals. 435 E. Chicago Riverwalk and 111 N. Lake Shore Drive.

Specialty cruises in Chicago

Mercury Cruises Book the tour company ‘s most popular cruise, The Urban Adventure Cruise, giving groups a glimpse at the skyline and historic buildings while traveling along the Chicago River and Lakefront Harbor. Discounts are offered for groups of 20 or more. Tours depart from Riverside Gardens, 112 E. Upper Wacker Drive

Mystic Blue

Odyssey Lake Michigan Lakefront dining and exciting sightseeing are seamlessly combined during an upscale cruise , featuring brunch, lunch, or dinner options. Guests will enjoy a gourmet meal while sailing along Lake Michigan, and a live DJ will keep the vibe fun yet relaxed. Tours depart from Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave.

Seadog Cruises

This high-speed thrill ride is an adrenaline-pumping way to experience Lake Michigan. Seadog Cruises offers exciting speedboat rides, architecture and river tours, and extreme thrill rides. They also have lakefront fireworks tours during the summer. Be prepared to get wet. Tours depart from Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave.

Spirit of Chicago

Navy Pier  is a lakefront favorite, and one of Chicago’s top attractions. Navy Pier offers groups of 20 or more discounted tickets to Navy Pier-produced events and attractions, plus Food Court Certificates that provide a selection of meal options at various Navy Pier eateries. Reach for the sky on the Centennial Wheel, riding in temperature-controlled gondolas that soar 200 feet up in the air. Catch a cool 3-D flick at the  AMC Navy Pier IMAX  theater. Or see a show at the   Chicago Shakespeare Theater . The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theater is a unique year-round theater venue, made up of mobile towers that can be configured into a variety of shapes and sizes, accommodating audiences ranging from 150 – 850 people.

Chicago Riverwalk

Explore the pedestrian-friendly   Chicago Riverwalk , which stretches from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street. This all-seasons hot spot is where you’ll find public art, boat tours, kayak rentals, and more. Stop for a bite to eat at one of the waterside restaurants, including City Winery Chicago Riverwalk , with its signature wines, Mediterranean paninis, and beautiful waterside garden; steak sandwiches and vodka lemonade at   O’Brien’s Riverwalk Café ; and  Tiny Tapp Riverwalk , known for its gourmet sliders and craft cocktails.

Chicago Lakefront Trail

The scenic   Chicago Lakefront Trail stretches for 18 miles along Lake Michigan and is lined with beautiful parks, boat harbors, and beaches (Oak Street and North Avenue are great for people watching). Take time to sun on the sand at 31st Street Beach or gather the group for stand-up paddleboarding in the harbor with  Chicago Water Sport Rentals . Don’t miss  Northerly Island , a manmade peninsula that juts into Lake Michigan and features nature paths for strolling, as well as the outdoor Huntington Bank Pavilion that hosts big-name summertime concerts.

Rent some wheels and join the   Lakefront Neighborhoods Bike Tour  hosted by  Bobby’s Bike Hike Chicago , with private group tours available. Or glide along the waterfront with  Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours . Choose the Chicago Lakefront Museum Campus Tour or opt to have a private tour specially customized for your group.

Waterfront restaurants in Chicago

Castaways Bar & Grill Bring groups to the rooftop at this North Avenue Beach bar and grill, where diners can look out onto the bustling beachfront while noshing on sandwiches and fresh salads. Or, head down to the first level to grab a scoop at the ice cream café. 1603 N. Lake Shore Drive

The Dock at Montrose Beach Paninis, wraps, and tacos are served at this casual beachfront eatery , where a lineup of live music rocks the beach all summer long. 200 W. Montrose Harbor Drive

Caffè Oliva Groups will love the lively vibe at this beachfront restaurant at Ohio Street Beach, where lakefront views are paired with casual fare such as salads, burgers, and flatbreads. 550 E. Grand Ave.

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Chicago Water Taxi

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Ticketing options, one-way ticket.

Valid for one ride between any two CWT dock locations.

*Half price One-Way tickets available for Senior Citizens. Must purchase at the Ogilvie/Union or Michigan Ave Dock. * One Way Tickets are free for active duty military and children ages 3 years old and younger.

Weekday Ten Ride Pass

Valid for ten one-way rides between any two dock locations. Perfect for commuters. Rides do not expire and can be used in subsequent years.

All Day Pass

Valid for unlimited rides on one calendar day.

Some Vessels are Climate-Controlled

Restrooms on board, some routes are ada accessible, bring your bike / luggage, food welcome (no outside alcohol).

* Not all amenities included on all vessels

Just Visiting?

Explore the city of Chicago from the Chicago Water Taxi. The Chicago Water Taxi connects several Chicago neighborhoods with various dining, sightseeing and shopping attractions. Looking for a guided architecture tour or Lake Michigan cruise? Wendella offers an expansive variety of tour and cruise options.

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Got water ann arbor hosting tours of water treatment plant in may.

Sarah Parlette , Associate Content Producer, All About Ann Arbor

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Explore Ann Arbor’s local water treatment plant and see why the city’s tap water was named the tastiest water in eastern Michigan in 2023 by the Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association.

City of Ann Arbor officials will host plant tours, at 919 Sunset Road, and activities during an open house between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 4.

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Community members will see how the city’s drinking water is treated and sent around Tree Town.

There will be plant tours, activities by the Leslie Science and Nature Center and Huron River Watershed Council, a rain garden display and an Ann Arbor Fire Department fire truck during the open house.

Treatment plant tours will done in groups of 15 people per tour. Those interested can sign up for tour times on the city’s online calendar for May 4 to reduce tour wait times.

Want to know more? Check out the city’s water treatment website.

Looking for more Ann Arbor news? Check out A4's weekly newsletter.

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About the Author

Sarah parlette.

Sarah has worked for WDIV since June 2018. She covers community events, good eats and small businesses in Ann Arbor and has a Master's degree in Applied Linguistics from Grand Valley State University.

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