Taking the Wendella Boats Sunset Cruise in Chicago
Chicago has an amazing skyline! There are tons of skyscrapers and unique looking buildings. You can see them in many ways, but one of the best ways is by cruising the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Not only do you get the opportunity to take in the beautiful sights of Chicago, but you have the opportunity to learn more about the history of Chicago and its many buildings. There are many cruises to choose from, but I highly enjoyed the Sunset Cruise that Wendella Boats offers.
I was excited about taking the Sunset Cruise. If you haven’t noticed from previous posts, I like taking boat rides! The cruise was educational mixed with a real good time! The Sunset Cruise is 2 hours long. The boat is 2 floors and seating is first come first serve. There are chairs and benches to choose from once you board.
We sat on the top of the open air boat on one of bench benches. It allowed me to take pictures and really enjoy everything without a ton of people obstructing my view. As the boat went up and down the Chicago River a tour guide was telling us a plethora of history about Chicago. He also told us about all the different buildings, why they were unique, and so much more.
The architecture is so beautiful in Chicago. I wish the speakers on the boat were a little louder so that I could hear everything the guide was saying clearly about each building. On the lower level of the boat there was more seating. There was also a bar with drinks (alcoholic and non) and snacks being sold. The guide said the second beer would be cheaper than the first. I think that enticed people even more to have even more of a good time.
Everyone was having a good time as we turned around and headed towards Lake Michigan. Lake Michigan gave amazing views to the entire skyline. It was gorgeous against the sunset. Not too far away the Navy Pier could be seen.
It was so crazy to be out on Lake Michigan because it felt more like being out in the middle of the ocean. It was so beautiful. Sitting on the top level of the boat the wind began to pick up and it became chilly. I certainly recommend a jacket on this cruise. I had a hoodie and was extremely happy that I was wearing it.
Part of the Chicago Skyline as the sun sets ©2015 HollyDayz Chicago as the sunsets ©2015 HollyDayz
We moved to the lower level of the boat. The wind wasn’t as high and I felt closer to the sights. I kept walking from the port side to the starboard side for all the different views the boat had to offer. We also went by the Buckingham Fountain and were able to view the water light show for a few minutes. It was really nice.
As we headed back and it got darker I noticed the bugs started coming out. I would suggest wearing bug spray if you get bitten up often. Seeing Chicago fully lit up at night was magical. This was a great sunset tour that I would certainly do again. Everyone seemed to have an amazing time on the Wendella Boats Sunset Cruise, me included!
Have you ever been on the Sunset Cruise in Chicago?
Disclaimer: Thank you to Wendella Boats for having us. While receiving complimentary tickets all opinions and thoughts are my own.
See more of my time in Chicago and get some ideas for your next visit!
shaunteebattie
I’ve lived in Chicago 40 years! I’ve never taken a boat ride, been to navy pier, or any other entertainment venues Chicago has to offer. I always do these things on vacation, not in my own backyard. I need to change that 🙂
Holly Dayz
Yea you should change that! It is fun to explore in your own hometown! This boat ride was a lot of fun.
Tryphena Wade
I love this! I took a sunset cruise in Chicago and few years ago and I loved it. The skyline at night is beautiful. Chicago is definitely one of my favorite cities (except in the winter months…brrrr)!
Holly Dayz
It is beautiful. Oh I am so glad you had the chance to do that. I really enjoyed it, I learned so much about the beautiful city.
eostories
Ah, the skyscrapers at sunset must be a truly beautiful view! Looks like a great thing to do in Chicago.
Holly Dayz
Beautiful, almost like looking at a postcard.
Revati
It’s strangely reminiscent of the cruise in the newer part of Dubai. I’d quite enjoy being able to get this different perspective to all the buildings of the city, and it sure looks stunning at sunset!
Holly Dayz
I can certainly see that as I did a boat ride in Dubai as well. Dubai has such tall buildings. It really is a sight to see.
Kiwi
Oh this is a beautiful cruise! I would love to take this Wendella Boat Sunset cruise if I ever go to Chicago! Thanks for the review!
Holly Dayz
It was very beautiful. Great views and learned so much about each building. You should certainly take it when you do get to Chicago.
Joeography
I absolutely love Chicago! The boat cruises on the river are the best too! Haven’t done the sunset cruise, but it’s definitely on the list now! Thanks for the great article!
Holly Dayz
Chicago is amazing. I always enjoyed it as a kid as well. The cruise was so awesome I loved it. I am glad it is on your list, you will really have a great time.
thesophislife
What beautiful views and pics! I have cruised on Lake Michigan before but it at sunset! Can’t wait to be in Chicago next week!
Holly Dayz
Thank you. Can’t wait to hear about your Chicago experiences. The sunset cruise is a lot of fun.
connier316Connie Reed
I’ve taken Chicago architectural boat tours several times and always enjoy them. I always learn something new from the educational piece, and the views are awesome. I haven’t done a sunset cruise yet, though.
Holly Dayz
You should certainly do the sunset cruise. It is a lot of fun.
Megan Claire (@mappingmegan)
Thanks for the tips on bug spray – we’re heading to Chicago in a few months and I would really love to take in the sights of the city on one of these boat tours. No better way to view the skyline and the sunset all in one! And I’ll make a note to sit as close as possible to the guide so we can hear properly – I really enjoy taking in the history of a place as we’re exploring. Makes you appreciate what you’re viewing a whole lot more 🙂
Holly Dayz
Bug spray is important when outdoors, especially during summer months. Seeing everything from the boat is amazing. The sunset was beautiful across the skyline.
patranila
I love boat tours, I love the water. I’m in NY and haven’t taken one in a long time. I’m all inspired now.
Holly Dayz
I am glad your inspired you should take one again soon!
Apryl REAL TEXAS HOUSEWIFE Gunn-Sherrod
This looks like an amazing way to tour this beautiful city! Thanks for sharing, Holly !
Holly Dayz
It is a great way to view the city! A ton of fun with beautiful views.
Jonna
This was so nice! I live in Norfolk, VA, and we have something similar that my husband and I did a couple years ago. It was beautiful and very romantic 🙂
Holly Dayz
Thank you! It is for everyone, families, romantic dates, girls night out, etc. I hope you two take another soon.
The Traveling Gals
I am from Chicago (now living in Florida) and I took the Wendella architectural tour a few years ago when I was back visiting for a weekend. I loved it! I saw so many things that I had never noticed. Sometimes being a tourist in your own city is so much fun!
Holly Dayz
It was a great tour! It is fun exploring and seeing things. There is always something new even if you live there. Glad you had a great experience with Wendella.