If you ever have spent any length of time in downtown Chicago, by the Chicago River, on the Michigan Avenue Bridge, near the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower, you must be familiar with the name Wendella. Since 1935, the Wendella Boat Tour Company has been offering river and lake cruises plus private boat rentals to one and all. It is a Chicago tradition. In fact, Wendella sponsors the original architecture tour, one for 45 minutes and another for 90 minutes. For tickets, stop at the ticket office at 400 North Michigan Avenue, at the Wrigley Building, at the Michigan Avenue Bridge. Tours run from 9 to 9 Sunday through Thursday and 9 to 10 on Friday and Saturday. It's the best seat in the house but be forewarned: it's always crowded, especially on weekends when tourists can't get enough of the Magnificent Mile and the Riverwalk. What strikes your fancy, the Chicago Sunset Cruise or the Chicago Fireworks Cruise on Wednesday and Saturday nights or the Beer and BBQ cruise on Thursday or the Wine and Cheese Cruise on Thursday? The daily architecture cruises are most popular, a great way to see the city and learn something about its rich history. Hey, looking ahead, Wendella also hosts a St. Patrick's Day cruise and a Holiday Fireworks Cruise on November 21.