Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
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.
Additional Info
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
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
What To Expect
Chicago River
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.
Chicago Architecture Center
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.
What‘s Included
Local guide (docents)
Restroom on board
Live commentary on board
River sightseeing cruise
Climate controlled lower level
Drinks & light snacks (available to purchase)
Storage for luggage
WiFi on board
Options
Architectural River Cruise
Reviews
5,794 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Awesome
Deborah B,May 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The guide is so knowledgeable about all of the buildings. It’s fascinating to see them up close from the boat and to hear the history
Superb architectural boat tour aboard the a First Lady
Figgy4,May 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was fantastic and Anthony, was amazing and so knowledgeable. The four of us had a wonderful time!
They best boat ride ever all other boat rides, they’re just losers
Hayes K,May 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was the best experience ever. It was the best boat ride ever all the other boat rides. They’re just losers. This was the greatest boat ride. It’s gonna help us make make America great again!!!
Loved this tour
Barbara M,May 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The guide was excellent and very knowledgeable and interesting.
Excellent
Explore04229188262,May 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Chris did an enjoyable and professional presentation! Thank you!!
Time well spent!
469geralyns,May 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Failed to do this tour when I lived here 30 years ago. Finally knocked it off my bucket list, and so worth the effort. Lance, the CAC volunteer, was our tour guide. He was exceptionally knowledgeable and provided great information about all we saw. Thank you for educating us regarding the meaning behind the Chicago city flag! I would highly recommend this tour for any architecture lovers or one who would like to know more about the history of Chicago.
Great Tour on the River
peterlK8144FH,May 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was fantastic, Paul S was knowledgeable and funny. It helped that the weather was great. Would recommend the tour for families, adults, anyone looking to learn more about Chicago in a fun environment.
Wonderful
Experience793540,May 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Chris was a wonderful tour guide and it was a great learning experience and a must see for Chicago!
Amazing Experience!
donnalN9263FP,May 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Mark L did a great job explaining the different buildings, their unique architectural components, who built them and what for. Really enjoyed his presentation.
Worth the money!
V5274CMmichaeln,May 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was awesome! Our tour guide, Dave, was fantastic. Very engaging and full of knowledge. I would go on the tour again for sure.
From US$57.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by Chicago Architecture Foundation & Chicago's First Lady Cruises