Historical and Architectural Chicago Fireboat River & Lake Cruise

A boat trip on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River that covers the city's fire history and its architecture, aboard a retired Chicago fireboat.

This is a cruise on Lake Michigan that continues into the Chicago River, with the route passing the city's sights and the subjects covered being the history of firefighting in Chicago and the city's architecture. The main vessel is the Fred A. Busse, Engine 41, a former Chicago fireboat that served the city's fire department for decades before it was retired.

Inside the cabin, the walls are decorated with firefighter patches sent from departments around the world, along with memorabilia from the boat's years in service. The setting makes the history of the vessel visible during the trip, and the river and lakefront views add the architectural side of the program.

The outing suits fire enthusiasts, families with children, and visitors who want to see Chicago's buildings from the water. It takes place in Chicago, on the lake and along the river.