Architecture Cruise Benefits Cats'

Chicago’s Canine Cruise from Mercury Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline was an idea I had, and it’s taken off.  Each year, in return Mercury has given back offering a benefit ride to support homeless dogs. I suggested that fair is fair and that they do the same for cats! And Holly Agra said ‘Why not?’ So, on May 25, you can offer dad an early Father’s Day gift, and take a beautiful ride out on the Chicago River, and proceeds benefit homeless cats, and the Tree House Humane Society.

So, you know, there are lots of ‘wanna be’s’ in Chicago – other company’s who offer architecture cruises – but these are the only ones narrated by the amazing docents from the Chicago Architecture Foundation. I do this at least once a year and I ALWAYS learn more, as Chicago’s architecture may be the most diverse and interesting in America.

The “Puss ‘N Boats” benefit is May 25, 8:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

As the honorary Captain, I will welcome all aboard, and offer jokes like this

What do you call a cat wearing shoes? 

Puss in boots!

Which explains why my microphone will mostly be off….However, the Architecture Foundation will enlighten all of us….what fun, a chance to learn about our city, a great excuse to enjoy a beautiful 90-minutes on the river, and we all get to help cats.

Adults: $35 (13 years and older)

Children: $10 (5 – 12 years old)

Children under 4 are FREE

Purchase tickets below or purchase by phone at 773-784-5488 ext: 225. * Day of tickets may be purchased depending on availability

Chicago’s First Lady offers discounted parking rates at the ABM Systems Parking Garage at 111 E. Wacker Dr. (Illinois Center). Of course, you can take public transportation to the dock, at Michigan Ave. at Wacker Dr. (SE corner).  You can walk from nearby Red, Brown or Purple  line stops, and various Michigan Avenue buses will drop you right there, lots of other buses drop you only a few blocks away. Due to Bike the Drive, you may want to avoid Lake Shore Drive, or leave some extra time.

Then, after July 6 – if you have a dog – you can go on Chicago’s only Canine Cruise, which tours the River and Lake Michigan, pointing out canine architecture highlights like the parks with the most squirrels.