A part of Chicago since 1935, Wendella claims to be Chicago's original tour-boat company, and we have little reason to doubt them.

Wendella maintains a dedicated, in-house education department that trains its docents, ensuring that your tour is full of sun, surf and facts. Its 60-minute architecture tour kicks off at the Wrigley Building, then steers along the Chicago River. There's also a 90-minute River and Lake Tour. Adults cost $23; seniors, $21; children 11 and under, $11. Wendella's boat tours operates daily April through Thanksgiving, then on weekends only through December 23.