As for the specific differences, I am not too sure so hopefully someone else here can clarify. My assumption is the one would probably go further up/down the river than the other. However, I have done the Chicago Arch. Foundation tour and found it to be very well worth the money. I learned things about the architecture that I had no idea about at all - and I've lived here my entire life! I have also referred out of town friends to go on that tour, with each one praising the tour afterwards. Regardless of whichever you go on, definitely do an architectural tour. Plus, the views are stunning from the river, as you see a Chicago perspective not normally seen.

Enjoy it! :)

I haven't done the Shoreline Tour, but I've seen their boats on the river. The CAF tour is very nice for adults, but children would probably find it to be boring and slow. If you are coming with kids, I would recommend the SeaDog river/lake tour. This architectural tour has a bit more of an irreverent tone, then after the river cruise you go out on the lake for a speedboat ride.

Thanks everyone who took the time to reply. I think we will go with the Foundation tour, even though the speedboat sounds pretty exciting. Somehow, in all of my research, I had not come across that tour. Thanks again. Tom