Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady
Description
The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady has long been the gold standard among all Chicago tour experiences, and is the only Chicago architecture boat tour led by highly trained expert docents. On this 90-minute cruise, you will enjoy an overview of historic and modern architectural styles including stories about the people who designed and built Chicago. As a certified nonprofit, all ticket purchases directly support education efforts and community engagement projects. No visit to Chicago is complete without experiencing this award winning tour, so accept no substitutes.
Tour Options
Itinerary
The story of the Chicago River is one that continues to unfold. Through periods of industry, transportation, revitalization and recreation, it has grown and changed like the city itself.
The Chicago Architecture Center is directly across Wacker Drive from the Chicago's First Lady docks. Discounted admission of $5 per person is available if you show your river cruise ticket.
From naval base and university campus to shipping hub and entertainment destination, Navy Pier is Chicago’s hallmark of adaptive reuse.
When architect Bertrand Goldberg envisioned Marina City, it was an urban experiment designed to draw middle-class Chicagoans back to the city after more than a decade of suburban migration.
When our docents explain that the Trump International Hotel & Tower reflects its surroundings, they aren’t only referring to its shiny glass and steel exterior.
One of the last American projects designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this powerful Modernist structure occupies a prominent place on the Chicago River.
Gravity-defying 150 North Riverside has already taken its rightful place among Chicago’s architectural and engineering wonders.
View Boeing International Headquarters at 100 N Riverside Plaza.
For nearly 25 years after its completion, the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, held the title of tallest building in the world.
Size has always mattered in the Midwest. Upon its completion in 1930, it was the largest building in the world and served as Marshall Field’s wholesale warehouse, where retailers could buy stock.
View the Chicago Mercantile Exchange Building, located at 20 S Wacker Drive.
Chicago Tribune Freedom Center.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Not recommended for children younger than 12 years
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- IMPORTANT: For safety reasons, motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated. Guests who are able to transfer may use the company's manual wheelchair based on availability.
- WARNING: Tickets are not refundable or transferrable to other departures.
- Pets are not allowed
- IMPORTANT: There is no elevator access to the boat dock.
- IMPORTANT: Most, but not all, departures are wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required
- All seating is General Admission. Boarding is on a first come, first serve basis
- Routes, specific vessels, and schedules are subject to change without notice
Reviews(6,249)
Boat tour was great, had Cindy as the guide, she was absolutely terrific. Learned a ton about Chicago and architecture and would absolutely ride again.
Paul S was a great docent. He shared a lot of interesting stories about the history of development along the river. The boat was comfortable.
This is the only tour to consider when looking for an architectural boat tour. I accidentally booked on another company. On that day, the surroundings were not familiar and I fortunately was able to book on the first lady that day. Dr. Mark. (?) [a retired orthopedic surgeon] was our docent. I have lived in Chicago for over 70 years and last year was my first tour on the first lady. It certainly won’t be my last.
Lots of great sites - you can see so much of the city from the river. Our guide Miriam was incredibly knowledgeable. It was hard to believe she was a volunteer. Don’t forget sunscreen!
John I was awesome he was very funny and I learned a lot about Chicago’s architecture.
Amazing tour - amazing views- amazing guide and so so interesting. Cant miss this one if you visit Chicago.
Such a great tour! It was such an educational experience learning details about the beautiful architecture of Chicago! Wonderful commentary about the construction and design of buildings. The boat ride was lovely!
During the Chicago Architecture 90-minute boat cruise, I was amazed at the scope of the city’s history and the beauty and majesty of its buildings. We were amidst a forest of architectural wonders. The docent was so knowledgeable and entertaining. An unforgettable experience!
Very good. 10/10 lemonade. Great learning experience
Had a wonderful history of the whole waterfront, Chicago and the buildings on both sides of the river and the lake. Topped by great weather made a lovely day perfect
