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
5,573 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Cool, fun, funny, views. Peter is the goat and deserves a raise.
Dan M,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was great. Amazing facts, Amazing architecture, and Amazing host. GIVE PETER A RAISE!
Absolutely a must -do
P9325DUsamm,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I went with my two kids (6 and 10) and some other family. Peter our guide was wonderfully informative and entertaining. The views are wonderful and the history is fascinating.
Excellent choice!
ELIZABETH M,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Learn Chicago history and see amazing architecture! Our docent was incredibly knowledgeable and the tour was filled with great information. We appreciated how she explained and connected the dots about the history of Chicago.
Surprisingly intriguing!
justinhD9514WY,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Steve was great. He is a fantastic storyteller. Glad I could support a non profit and have a great time. Definitely would recommend. It was colder than I expected, so make sure to dress in layers and bring the heated vest. There was a place to view from inside the ship where it was warm, but I preferred the top deck where I could get the full Steve experience.
Beautiful skyscrapers from the river!
Cathy P,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Beautiful day and a wonderful tour. The docent who did the narration was so knowledgeable. It was a great 1 1/2 hours of seeing the beautiful Chicago buildings from the river. We all loved it!
Great informative tour...
Miguel S,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great informative tour with great views of along the river..........................tour recommended
Do it!
KCW53114,Mar 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our tour guide was so passionate and knowledgeable about the history in the architecture of Chicago! I highly suggest this for anyone!
Excellent and Informative Tour with Mary Jo!
tamarah977,Mar 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This morning we took a very chilly, albeit sunny architectural cruise of the city with the docent Mary Jo. It was so great even if we were so cold. Can’t blame the tour company for the weather. I am a lifelong Chicagoan, and I still learned things on this tour. It was a full 90 minutes, detailed architectural information and afterwards the docent said no tipping. What she encouraged us to do was support the Chicago Architectural Center museum. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who loves architecture or just wants a wonderful boat ride through the city. It’s a great way to support the arts, architecture, and local organizations.
Calm leisurely cruise to see chicago history
Tyler V,Mar 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Nice, calm, informative tour that covers a lot of distance in good time
Great Boat Trip
Sophie M,Mar 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Chilly but great boat trip! Our guide was amazing! Learned a lot and had great views. Bundle up if it’s a colder day!
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