Shoreline Sightseeing (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Shoreline Sightseeing?
What makes it 63% Baby-Friendly: Babies ride free and Navy Pier dock has ramp access, but no changing tables, stairs to toilets, limited shade, and folded-stroller storage make cruising workable yet moderately inconvenient.
Positives:
- Baby Fares: Infants under 3 ride free on all cruises and water taxis.
- Onboard Facilities: All boats have lower-deck restrooms; no changing tables—bring a portable pad.
Challenges:
- Stroller Storage: You must fold strollers before boarding; ramps can be narrow and have a step.
- Nursing Options: No onboard nursing rooms; you can nurse on deck or use Navy Pier's nursing pods after a short walk.
What is Shoreline Sightseeing?
- A Chicago-based operator of guided boat cruises on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan
- A fleet of classic paddle-wheelers and contemporary tour vessels equipped for live architectural narration
- Multiple daily departures from Navy Pier, Michigan Avenue, and downtown docks showcasing over 40 landmark buildings
What is so special about Shoreline Sightseeing for with baby?
- Infants under 3 ride free on all tours.
- 45-minute Skyline Lake Cruise offers shade and restrooms.
- Short water taxi rides keep baby calm and entertained.
- Strollers must be folded; consider a baby carrier.
- Bring your own changing pad and snacks.
Recommended visit duration: 1–3 hours
Why 1–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for the 45-minute lake cruise and a short water taxi ride with breaks for baby comfort.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Shoreline Sightseeing
Skyline Lake Cruise:
A 45-minute cruise around Navy Pier with recorded narration and partial overhead cover.
Tip: Board early to choose a shaded deck spot and use the lower-deck restroom before departure.
Water Taxi Ride:
Short 10–15-minute rides between Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue.
Tip: Fold and stow stroller onboard or use a baby carrier for easier boarding on narrow ramps.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Shoreline Sightseeing
- Use a Baby Carrier: A carrier frees your hands and eases movement up boarding stairs.
- Pack Snacks and Supplies: Bring bottled water, snacks, and any baby-specific items—onboard concessions are limited.
Reviews of Shoreline Sightseeing
D Cha
Great way to see the various architectural building along the Chicago River, even with a little snowfall. Crew cleaned up the seats as best they could, with informative commentary from the crew in front of the boat (although it could be difficult to understand fully if you aren't fluent in English). Does sell pics at $20 if you want to take something home.
Jagadeesh Rahul
A great tour, very professional and very amicable service. 45 mins to 1 hr of tour with beautiful views of cityscape along the river. The person who explained the architecture did a great job. We had enough time for good pics of skylines. Very happy with their tour and will definitely recommend it to others.
Stephanie Wolf
We went on the architecture cruise. The Host Kevin was amazing! Fun and exciting. He was so knowledgeable. Sang and told jokes. Because we went on the architecture cruise, we got a deal on another boat ride. We chose the Groove Cruise. They had music and a bar. And it was beautiful! The skyline is gorgeous at night- especially from a boat in the middle of the lake. Both trips were so much fun! Def...
Megan Mulholland
A unique way to see the city and learn about the city. My friend and I enjoyed the Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture Tour in Chicago. The staff was friendly and professional. The tour was informative, funny and engaging. Our guide was knowledgeable on the architecture and history and was a great storyteller, sharing Chicago’s architectural evolution with historical facts. We heard stories about ...
harish mandapaka (HariM)
I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture Tour in Chicago, and it was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment we boarded the boat, the energy was vibrant and welcoming. The staff was friendly, professional, and clearly passionate about the city’s rich architectural history. The tour itself was incredibly informative and engaging. Our guide was not onl...
When is the best time to visit Shoreline Sightseeing (Chicago, United States)?
In summer, bring sun protection and water. In cooler months, dress in layers. Avoid late fireworks tours—they can be loud and past baby's bedtime.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Skyline Lake Cruise tickets (2 adults) | USD 69.9 |
| One-way water taxi rides (2 adults) | USD 20 |
| Total Estimated | USD 89.9 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Shoreline Sightseeing
Address: 401 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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About Shoreline Sightseeing
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 312-222-9328Explore Popular Things to Do
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