RIVER TRIPS · THE USA RIVER CRUISES
Chicago explains itself from the water better than any American city; Portland, New York and the canyon rivers do the rest. These 15 compare architecture cruises, sunset sailings and white water.
Cruise the Chicago River for about 60 to 90 minutes with an architecture guide, passing the Wrigley Building, Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, Marina City, Aqua, and more. Choose a Navy Pier or Michigan Avenue departure, enjoy a restroom and bar onboard, and bring your dog along.
“Guide was very knowledgeable. Easily understood. Boat was clean. Bar was well stocked. Captain very good.”
Board Wendella near the Wrigley Building for a 90-minute cruise along all three branches of the Chicago River. An expert guide explains more than 130 years of Chicago architecture as you pass Marina City, Merchandise Mart, Willis Tower, the Riverwalk, and the Lyric Opera. Choose indoor or outdoor seating.
“It’s a very informative tour. The host was enthusiastic and funny. Bundle up if you do this tour in the winter, it gets cold out on the water.”
Ride a restored World War II amphibious duck boat through Boston with a personal ConDUCKtor, then splash into the Charles River for skyline views. Choose departures from the Museum of Science, New England Aquarium, or Prudential Center. GPS audio is available in nine languages with your own phone and headphones.
“It’s very informational and it’s worth the money paid. There are different tour times to choose from”
Join Wendella Tours & Cruises for a 90-minute architectural cruise from the DuSable Bridge. Guides such as John, Sarah, Alex, and Scotty D explain Chicago’s skyline with humor, while you choose an open deck or climate-controlled seating and can buy local beer, spirits, and Garrett’s Popcorn onboard.
“Unreal tour guide, super knowledgeable. Stunning views, great day out.”
See Chicago from the river aboard First Lady, with a Chicago Architecture Center docent explaining landmarks, bridges, architects, and city history. The 90-minute cruise includes open-air and climate-controlled seating, a bar, restrooms, and views of Marina City, Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and more.
“Excellent tour of Chicago. Fantastic experience!! Mark was very knowledgeable and entertaining to listen to. Very friendly and organized staff. Boat was spotless and comfortable. Recommend the evening tour.”
Cruise all three branches of the Chicago River with a live English or Spanish guide, learning about roughly 40 landmark buildings, from Marina City to Willis Tower. Guides such as Chicago Bob, Juan, Jeremy, and Kevin bring history and humor, while the onboard cash bar adds a relaxed touch.
“I recently had the pleasure of joining a boat tour led by our fantastic guide, Dillon, and Captain Albert, and I can't recommend them highly enough! From the moment we set sail, it was clear that we were in for an unforgettable experience. Dillon's enthusiasm and extensive knowledge made the tour both informative and engaging. He shared fascinating stories and insights about the local history and landmarks, making every moment on the water feel special. His passion for the area was contagious, and he encouraged questions, ensuring everyone felt involved. Captain Albert was the perfect complement to Dillon's guiding. His skillful navigation and calm demeanor made us feel safe and…”
Board at 9 East River Street for a 90-minute narrated cruise aboard the Georgia Queen or Savannah River Queen. Choose a climate-controlled observation deck, open-air patio, or upper-deck bench, then cruise past Savannah’s waterfront, working port, and Old Fort Jackson. Lunch is not included.
“It was a fun experience. Especially enjoyed the cannon going off. Learned alot about the history of Savannah. Enjoyed seeing how they are turning original building into businesses.”
Cruise the Chicago River from the Wrigley Building with live guides such as Tess, Chris, and Zack. In 45 minutes, you’ll see the Riverwalk, Michigan Avenue Bridge, Merchandise Mart, Lyric Opera, Marina City, and skyline views toward Willis Tower, with indoor and outdoor seating.
“It's breezy on the boat, and probably 5⁰-10⁰ cooler than on land, during the fall and winter months, so dress accordingly so can enjoy the experience.”
You’ll launch from Saguaro Lake Ranch and paddle an unguided, two-hour stretch of the Lower Salt River to Foxtail. Expect mountain views, birds, possible wild horses, calm water, and a few swift sections where you may get wet. Kayak, paddle, and life jacket are included.
“Don’t forget your camera and sunscreen and some favorite tunes for inspiration . Lol Friendly people. Lots of wildlife along the way. Even wild horses !”
Board Wendella at the Wrigley Building for a 90-minute cruise along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Your live guide points out landmark buildings, from Marina City and the Wrigley Building to the Water Tower and Civic Opera House. Arrive early for the best outdoor seats.
“Great tour on a lovely fall day, nice ride and our guide was the perfect blend of Chicago wit and wisdom”
Cruise from Lake Shore Drive toward Willis Tower and the South Branch, then return past the Riverwalk. Expect live English commentary, indoor and outdoor decks, climate-controlled seating, and drinks for purchase. Guides such as Kenny, Zach, and Sarah are known for keeping the architecture talk lively.
“We loved our tour guide, he was so so funny and did a great job giving so much information but making it fun and keeping attention the entire time. Definitely worth it”
Head to Hudson Yards, watch a multimedia introduction, then ride above 1,100 feet to Edge’s indoor and outdoor decks. Walk on the glass floor, lean against angled glass walls, visit Eastern Point, and use the included digital photo. Choose timed, anytime, or priority admission.
“While the ride to the top was expedited, the ride down took almost 45 mins. Once you got off of the elevator at the top, there was no organization and it was chaotic. The guy running the register at the ice cream museum counter was rude and very unpleasant to deal with.”
Ride from Portland in a small, air-conditioned van to Multnomah Falls and several Columbia Gorge waterfalls. Guides such as Ana, Carrie, James, Edwin, and Sarah share local history, while short hikes lead to Benson Bridge, Bridal Veil Falls, and Latourell Falls. Expect changing stops during road construction.
“Great way to spend half a day. Carrie is a great tour guide, informative and fun. I would definitely recommend this trip.”
Cruise from DuSable Bridge up the Chicago River, pass through the Chicago Lock, and head onto Lake Michigan. Your English-speaking guide explains landmarks from Marina City to Willis Tower. Choose an open deck or climate-controlled cabin, with drinks, snacks, and Garrett’s Popcorn available onboard.
“Our guide was great. Good fun and very informative! Well worth the cost, even with a little rain!”
Spend about 2.5 hours aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen, with narration on New Orleans, the Mississippi, Hurricane Katrina, and the Battle of New Orleans. You will go ashore at Chalmette Battlefield for a guided visit, with food and drinks available for purchase onboard.
“We had a wonderful day. Boat was fun and food was great. Everybody on the boat made us feel like family.”
An hour, an evening, a set of rapids or a week aboard.
Every country and city on the site, from the Nile to the Chicago.
