From the Riverwalk to the House of Blues, the Chicago River is lined with historical landmarks. You can point them out to your pooch as you sail past with Mercury’s Canine Cruise. Dogs can chill on the deck, get a better view on your lap or even sit in their own seat for the 90-minute tour of Chicago’s downtown waterway. Your guide will point out the sights while making special mentions of the dog-friendly parks and attractions, like Ward Park and Larrabee Dog Park, that you can explore on foot when you’re back on dry land. Mercury hosts two Halloween-themed canine cruises in October as well.
If you and your pooch are still in the mood for another cruise, see the Windy City on a Seadog Cruises speedboat tour. Departing from Chicago’s famous Navy Pier, the company offers four pet-friendly cruise options. If you’re short on time, opt for the half-hour Lakefront Speedboat Tour, which hits the highlights on a fast-paced cruise on Lake Michigan. With more time to spare, choose the 75-minute River & Lake Architecture Tour, which extends your trip through the Chicago River Locks. Cruises operate from April through October.
Back on dry land, kick back and relax at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago.