Lakefront Cruises and Architecture Tours in Chicago

Chicago, better known as the Windy City, is located on the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan in Illinois. It's the third most populous city in the United States and over 2.7 million residents call Chicago home. It's the birthplace of the skyscraper and one of the most influential architectural cities in the world.

Millions of people flock to Chicago every year for business and/or pleasure. One of the most popular tourist attractions is to take a cruise around the lakefront or an educational river cruise to learn about the city's architecture. The tours are educational, relaxing and fun.

Did you know that Chicago is an international hub for finance, commerce, industry, technology, telecommunications, and transportation? That Chicago O'Hare International Airport is the second busiest airport in the world? Did you know that it's the second most visited city in the United States?

Looking to take a Lakefront Cruise or Architecture Tour through Chicago? If so, you'll want to check out these tour providers. All of them come highly recommended.

1. Chicago's First Lady - Departs daily from Chicago's Riverwalk and offers world-class river cruises. You can purchase tickets online or at the Riverwalk office.

2. Shoreline Sightseeing - Offers the cities largest fleet of tour boats and water taxis. They offer two different departure areas from Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue with sightseeing tours lasting from 40 to 75 minutes in length. Tickets can be purchased online or at the departure sights.

3. Wendella Sightseeing Boats - This company is located at the start of Chicago's Magnificent Mile and offers a variety of different lakefront and river tours, as well as water taxis. You can purchase tickets online or at the gate. The narrated tours are some of the best being offered in the area.

When visiting Chicago you'll want to add a lakefront cruise and/or architecture river tour to your schedule of things to see and do. Plus, check out each of the operator's website to see their list of special scheduled events and party tours!

Chicago Riverwalk Offers Dining, Arts, Music and More

The City of Chicago’s award-winning Chicago Riverwalk, a 1.25-mile promenade through the heart of downtown, has quickly become one of the city’s most popular destinations for art, music, dining and the enjoyment of natural habitats, beloved by Chicagoans and visitors alike. Replete with ample spaces for the appreciation of the city’s distinctive architecture, guests also encounter opportunities for boating, fishing, jogging and more as they traverse Chicago’s most beautiful waterway or bask in sunshine along the riverbank, savoring a tasty gelato or cool drink.

“The Chicago Riverwalk has helped transform the Chicago River into the city’s next great recreational frontier,” said Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “Today, the Chicago River brings people together, adds to our quality of life, and contributes to Chicago’s economic growth in a way that enhances, not endangers, our environment. It is great to see Chicagoans from every neighborhood, and people from every part of the world, enjoying the Riverwalk and experiencing the sights and sounds of Chicago.”

The Chicago Riverwalk is a prime example of the City’s official motto, "Urbs in Horto" (meaning "City in a Garden"), offering the serenity of nature amid the exciting vibrancy of an urban retail, business and arts hub. The six-block Riverwalk was officially completed in 2016 under the leadership and vision of Mayor Emanuel to transform the Chicago River into a recreational destination and weave the life of the River into the urban fabric of the city. The beautifully designed promenade features a series of distinct settings, each aesthetically cohesive yet unique in character. Beginning at the southwest corner of State Street and Wacker Drive, the Riverwalk moves southwest for six City blocks, divided into “rooms,” each partitioned by one of the City’s iconic movable bridges. These sections include:

* The Marina Plaza: restaurants and outdoor seating with views of vibrant life on the water, including passing barges, water taxis and sightseeing boats. (From State to Dearborn.)

* The Cove: a restaurant, a kayak information center and docking for human-powered crafts, enabling physical connections to the water through recreation. (From Dearborn to Clark.)

* The River Theater: a sculptural staircase linking Upper Wacker and the Riverwalk offering pedestrian connectivity to the water’s edge and seating, while trees provide greenery and shade. (From Clark to LaSalle.)

* The Water Plaza: a zero-depth water feature with playful fountains for children and families to engage with water at the River’s edge. (From LaSalle to Wells.)

* The Jetty: a series of piers and floating wetland gardens with interactive learning about the ecology of the river, including opportunities for fishing and identifying native plants. (From Wells to Franklin.)

* The Riverbank: an accessible walkway and new marine edge creating access to Lake Street and featuring a public lawn at the confluence. Providing an accessible route from lower to upper Wacker and Lake Street, it will be utilized for art installations in the future.

The Riverwalk has transformed the Chicago River from a waterway previously utilized primarily by industrial barges or sightseeing boats into an approachable public amenity to be enjoyed by all. The project also represents the realization of a key element of Daniel Burnham’s historic 1909 Plan of Chicago. The design was created by Sasaki and Ross Barney Architects and was constructed by Alfred Benesch & Co. Engineers and Walsh Construction.

Dining and recreational opportunities abound along the banks of the Chicago River, including cafes, wine bars and craft brewing. Restaurants, many of which offer live musical entertainment, include Chicago BrewHouse, City Winery Chicago, Frost Gelato, Island Party Hut, The Northman Beer and Cider Garden, O’Briens and Tiny Tapp and Cafe. History and engineering enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, where they can learn about history of the River that helped establish Chicago as a business mecca and marvel at the technology involved in the movable bridges. Public art installations, changing seasonally, are peppered throughout the Chicago Riverwalk for sightseers to enjoy. Guided walking tours, let by the Chicago Architecture Foundation or Chicago Greeters, as well as birding tours led by Audubon are available. The Chicago Park District’s Fishing at the Getty program lends anglers free poles and lures. For more information, visit www.chicagoriverwalk.us.

Gorgeous Views from the Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park

DRINK IN THE VIEW AT FAIRMONT CHICAGO, MILLENNIUM PARK

Enjoy spectacular views in the Grand Suites on the 37th floor of the hotel for your next holiday party or corporate event

Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park, 200 North Columbus Drive, invites guests to “Drink in the View” during their next holiday party or company dinner with exclusive access to the Grand Suites located on the 37th floor of the hotel. These stunning, recently renovated luxurious Grand Suites feature naturally awe-inspiring views of the city skyline from both Grant and Millennium Park to the south and Lake Michigan to the east. The elegantly appointed suites are perfect for holiday gatherings of 15-50 guests and provide a unique, sophisticated experience. To make planning easier, Executive Chef John Cordeaux suggests choosing from his favorite holiday recipes or, for those who want to save turkey for the special day, a Sushi Soiree.

The Sushi Soiree includes a two-hour Makimono reception featuring Fried Lobster Roll, Spicy Tuna, Avocado, Thai Chile, Miso Mustard Dragon Roll, Shrimp, Unagi, Avocado Tokyo Roll, Hamachi, Salmon, Tuna, Cucumber, and Jalapeno Vegetarian California Roll. Menu enhancements include Edamame, Sweet & Spicy Tofu Egg Rolls, Banana Maki, Mochi Balls, and Sushi Made to Order from the hotel’s Sushi Chef. Favorite sushi selections are complimented by a premium open bar that can be enhanced with a selection of Sakes, “Sakatinis” and Japanese beers. Event planners may also choose to add Geishas to greet guests upon arrival, a Taiko Drumming Duo or a Karaoke DJ.

For the purists, the traditional Holiday Celebration features Wild Mushroom, Pecan and Taleggio Bruschetta, Maple Glazed Bacon Wrapped Scallops and Chestnut Crusted Salmon Satay with Fennel Mustard, as well as a Dessert Station complete with Holiday Cookies and Gingerbread Houses. Menu enhancements include a variety of Carving Stations from 24-hour Cooked Bone-in Ham, Brined Whole Turkey Breast with Traditional Stuffing and Turkey Jus, Zatar and Sumac Rubbed Lamb Leg with Mint and Banyuls Jus, and a Whole Side of Arctic Char with Crab Melt and Buttered Spinach. Christmas Carolers, a Holiday Jazz Band or an appearance by Santa and the Elves are available as entertainment options.

Designed by Looney & Associates, the earth-tone palette of the Grand Suites is comfortable and elegant. The vibrant works of art reenergize the rooms and bring a sense of luxury to the guests. These sophisticated and modern suites feature brilliantly designed custom furniture by Mark David, a Kohler Company. Each of the four Grand Suites affords its own unique design elements that create a distinct personality: Sleek, Private, Chic, and Awe-Inspiring.

*This offer applies to new inquiries, is contingent upon availability, cannot be combined with any other offer and must be mentioned when requesting a proposal. Revenues based on guestroom, food and beverage only prior to tax or service charge. Standard Fairmont contract must be signed by December 15, 2014.

The experienced catering and event services staff is available to arrange the ideal event package for holiday parties and corporate retreats. To book an event, call 312-565-7400 and visit www.fairmont.com/chicago/promotions/rascals/ for more details.

Most Booked Summer Destinations

I love to travel and my favorite time of the year to travel happens to be Summertime! When hubby and I travel, we like to take road trips most of the time...but from time to time...we will board a flight. Years ago we did some traveling overseas but these days...we are more content to travel domestically and spend our money in our own economy. With that said, I thought I would share this article with all of you who like to travel abroad.

Most Booked Summer Destinations for 2013

The year-over-year data illustrates that while domestic airfare is on the rise, round-trip tickets to cosmopolitan cities including London and Paris, the beaches of San Juan and Cancun, and the culture of Rome, are being offered for under $1,000, making this season an ideal time to take an inspirational trip abroad.

No need to worry about a tight budget, because CheapOair is maximizing its customers’ travel experiences by offering exclusive vacation deals to the most popular summer destinations around the world.

Boston, Massachusetts to Cancun, Mexico

Cancun has become well-known for its beautiful beaches and magnificent resorts, and at the Barcelo Costa Cancun guests can step out of the hotel onto one of Cancun’s most spectacular beaches to enjoy some fun in the sun. When looking to break away from this all-inclusive resort, guests can travel just a few minutes to the city and enjoy the vibrant night life while exploring Mexico’s most popular destination.

CheapOair is offering vacation deals from Boston to Cancun starting at $875 per person. The package includes roundtrip airfare and a 3 night/4 day stay at the Barcelo Costa Cancun.

*Sample hotel rate listed for travel from August 2 to August 5, 2013 and is based on availability; additional dates and locations available. Taxes and service fees included. Sample airfare is listed from Boston to Cancun.

Chicago, Illinois to San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s beautiful scenery is a perfect reason to escape to this top destination this summer. At the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino, guests can enjoy a swim in the resort’s infinity pool overlooking the ocean. When looking to escape the sun’s rays, take a break in the hotel’s popular casino with over 500 slots and 16 table games.


CheapOair is offering vacation deals from Chicago to San Juan starting at $1,065 per person. The package includes roundtrip airfare and a 7 night/8 day stay at the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino.


*Sample hotel rate listed for travel from July 29 to August 5, 2013 and is based on availability; additional dates and locations available. Taxes and service fees included. Sample airfare is listed from New York to Chicago.

Orlando, Florida to Rome, Italy

Whether joining an audience with the Pope outside of the Vatican, throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, or enjoying all of the gelato you can get your hands on, the Pineta Palace hotel in Rome offers guests a list of endless possibilities of things to do when visiting one of the greatest cities in Italy.


CheapOair is offering vacation deals from Orlando to Rome starting at $1,998 per person. The package includes roundtrip airfare and a 4 night/5 day stay at the Pineta Palace.


*Sample hotel rate listed for travel from August 1 to August 5, 2013 and is based on availability; additional dates and locations available. Taxes and service fees included. Sample airfare is listed from Orlando to Rome.

Los Angeles, California to London, U.K.

Whether hopping on the London Eye where you can oversee the entire city, touring the Tower of London or walking like the Beatles along Abbey Road, London is the perfect place to soak up some culture. Located conveniently next to the nearest Tube (underground subway) stop, the Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington is located near Central London which has some of the world’s best retail shopping and unique markets.


CheapOair is offering vacation deals from Los Angeles to London starting at $2,075 per person. The package includes roundtrip airfare and a 7 night/8 day stay at the Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington.

*Sample hotel rate listed for travel from July 29 to August 5, 2013 and is based on availability; additional dates and locations available. Taxes and service fees included. Sample airfare is listed from Los Angeles to London.

New York, New York to Paris, France

The Pullman Paris Montparnasse is situated near the Montparnasse Tower from where guests can enjoy a romantic view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower. When looking to take a break from exploring historical monuments, the hotel is just minutes away from an array of shops, bistros, small theatres, cabarets and bars.

CheapOair is offering vacation deals from New York to Paris starting at $2,116 per person. The package includes roundtrip airfare and a 7 night/8 day stay at the Pullman Paris Montparnasse.

*Sample hotel rate listed for travel from July 29 to August 5, 2013 and is based on availability; additional dates and locations available. Taxes and service fees included. Sample airfare is listed from New York to France. For reservations, visit http://www.cheapoair.com/vacations/special-packages/exclusive-vacation-packages.html

Fares are round trip, Fares include all fuel surcharges, our service fees and taxes. Displayed fares are historical fares were last found on July 15, 2013 at 8:00 AM and are subject to availability. There is no guarantee that the fares will be available at the time of your search.

Short Trips to The Windy City - Chicago

How many of you have ever visited the beautiful city of Chicago? We've been fortunate to visit the windy city several times during the past 25 years. It's a large city in the mid-west with its own unique vibe and culture. A true melting pot in mid-west America.

A lot of times when we travel to the west coast our flight have a layover in Chicago. Sometimes it's only for a few hours and that doesn't allow us much time to explore the city. However, we decided to do something a little bit different a few years ago.

Now when we book flights that have layovers in the Windy City, we request an overnight or day and a half layover. We get a hotel or motel near the airport which allows us to conveniently go out and explore a little bit of the city while traveling. Most airlines will accommodate your request if you ask them for a "longer" layover before jumping onto your connecting flight. The last time we were there, we were able to enjoy 28 hours before getting onto our connecting flight to Sacramento.

One of these days we're hoping to spend 4-5 days in Chicago, so that we can really explore what the city has to offer. In the meantime, we'll enjoy the few hours that we do get when traveling and passing through.