Here is the quick answer: for the best views on a Wendella architecture cruise, head to the open-air upper deck and arrive early enough to pick your spot. Seating is first come, first served, so getting there ahead of the crowd matters more than any single "best seat." If you would rather stay out of the sun, wind, or rain, the covered lower deck has comfortable seating and, on most boats, speakers that carry the guide's narration so you do not miss a word. This guide walks through the real trade-offs, deck by deck, so you can choose what fits your day.
First, How Wendella Seating Actually Works
There are no assigned seats on a Wendella architecture cruise. Seating is open and first come, first served, so the single biggest thing you can do to get the spot you want is to arrive early. Wendella recommends getting to the dock at least 30 minutes before departure, with boarding starting 15 minutes prior. During peak season and on weekends, lines form quickly, so that buffer is what separates a rail seat from standing room.
Every boat gives you two basic choices: the open-air upper deck and the covered lower deck. Both see the same city; they just offer it differently. Here is how to decide.
Upper Deck vs Lower Deck
| Deck | Best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Upper deck (open-air) | Unobstructed skyline views, photography, feeling the city up close | Exposed to sun, wind, and weather; bring sun protection or a layer |
| Lower deck (covered) | Shade, shelter from rain, climate-controlled comfort, hearing the narration clearly | Views are framed by windows and the deck above rather than fully open |
On most of Wendella's boats, the lower deck is a heated and air-conditioned lounge, so it is the comfortable choice on a hot, cold, or rainy day. One exception worth knowing: the open-air Ouilmette does not have that enclosed lower lounge. If climate-controlled seating matters to you, it is reasonable to ask which boat your tour uses when you arrive.
The Best Choice for Your Goal
For the best skyline views and photos
Go to the upper deck and aim for a spot along the outer rail. With nothing between you and the city, this is where the wide-open views and clean photos happen. Because the Chicago River winds through downtown, the best side of the boat changes constantly as you turn, so there is no single "photo side" to chase. A rail seat lets you turn and shoot in either direction as the skyline rotates around you. The bow (front) is popular for head-on approaches to landmarks, so it tends to fill first.
For comfort and the clearest narration
Choose the lower deck. On most boats it is climate-controlled, and it has speakers that carry the guide's live narration, so you stay comfortable without missing the history and stories that make the tour. This is the better pick on extreme-weather days, or any time you would rather sit back and listen than chase camera angles. If hearing the narration clearly is a priority, the enclosed lounge is often easier than the breezy upper deck.
For families and groups
The lower deck makes it easier to keep a group together and sheltered, which helps with young kids. If your group wants the upper-deck views, arrive early enough to find seats together before the boat fills. Strollers are welcome if they fold, and there are changing tables in the lower-deck restrooms. For specific accessibility needs, it is best to call Wendella ahead at (312) 337-1446, since dock and boat access varies.
For first-timers
If it is your first Wendella architecture tour and the weather is fine, start on the upper deck for the full open-air experience, and know that you can step down to the covered deck anytime you want a break from the sun or breeze. You are not locked into one spot for the whole cruise.
Which Side of the Boat Is Best?
There is no permanently "better" side. The Chicago River curves through downtown, so both banks take their turn in the spotlight as the boat navigates the bends. That is genuinely good news: wherever you sit along the rail, the city will come to your side at some point. If you are set on photographing one specific building, the crew can often tell you which side it will appear on if you ask before departure. Otherwise, a rail seat on either side, with room to turn, serves you well.
How Early Should You Arrive?
Aim to arrive at the dock at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. Boarding begins about 15 minutes prior. That early arrival is exactly what gives you first pick of seats, which matters most if you want an upper-deck rail spot or need several seats together for a group. On busy summer weekends, the difference between arriving early and arriving "on time" is often the difference between your preferred seat and whatever is left.
What to Bring for Your Seat
- Sun protection: On the upper deck you are in direct and reflected sunlight. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen help. Wendella also sells ponchos, sunscreen, and hats onboard if you forget something.
- A layer: It is cooler and breezier on the water than on shore, even in summer. A light jacket makes the upper deck comfortable.
- A card: The onboard bar and shop are cashless, so bring a card for drinks, snacks, or that forgotten poncho.
For a full season-by-season breakdown, see our guide on what to wear on a Chicago architecture cruise.
The Bottom Line
The "best seat" depends on what you want out of the day. For views and photos, get to the upper-deck rail, and arrive early because seating is first come, first served. For comfort and the clearest narration, settle into the covered lower deck. Either way, you are seeing one of the world's great skylines from its best angle, the water. Arrive early, dress for the deck you choose, and the rest takes care of itself.
Ready to book? Check the schedule and reserve your spot, or compare the options in our architecture tour guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best seats on a Chicago architecture cruise?
For open-air views and photos, the upper-deck outer rail is the best spot. For comfort and the clearest narration, the covered lower deck is better. Seating is first come, first served, so arrive early (Wendella recommends 30 minutes before departure) to get your preferred spot.
Should I sit on the upper or lower deck?
The upper deck is open-air, with unobstructed skyline views and the best photo angles, but it is exposed to sun and wind. The lower deck is covered and, on most boats, climate-controlled, with speakers carrying the guide's narration. Choose the upper deck for views, the lower deck for comfort and clear narration.
Which side of the boat is best for photos?
Neither side is permanently better. The Chicago River winds through downtown, so both sides get great views as the boat turns. A rail seat with room to pivot lets you shoot in either direction. If you want a specific building, ask the crew which side it will appear on before you depart.
How early should I arrive to get a good seat?
Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Boarding starts about 15 minutes prior, and seating is first come, first served, so early arrival gives you the best choice, especially for upper-deck rail seats or group seating on busy weekends.
Is there covered seating on Wendella architecture cruises?
Yes. Every boat has a covered lower deck, and on most boats it is a heated, air-conditioned lounge with speakers that carry the guide's narration. The open-air Ouilmette is the exception, without an enclosed lower lounge. Views from the covered deck are framed by windows rather than fully open.
Can I move around during the cruise?
You can step between the upper and lower decks during the cruise, so you are not locked into one spot. Follow the crew's guidance and use the stairs carefully while the boat is moving.
Related Reading
- Chicago Architecture Boat Tour Guide - how to choose among Wendella's three architecture tours
- What to Wear on a Chicago Architecture Cruise - dressing for the deck you pick
- Wendella Sunset Cruise Guide - the golden-hour evening option
- Rain or Shine: What to Expect - weather and covered seating
- Wendella FAQ - full policies
