Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady

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Overview

Available languages

English

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‘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

What To Expect

1

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.

1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable
2

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.

Admission Not Applicable

Options

Architectural River Cruise

Reviews

4.93

5,256 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

5038
132
44
11
31
  • Architectural tour

    Carol R,

    Oct 15, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Marcia was a great guide of the architectural tour. She was extremely knowledgeable and interesting in her presentation! She kept the group’s attention for the entire cruise. I would definitely take this cruise again!

  • Chicago's Finest

    Susan S,

    Oct 14, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    This architecture cruise is outstanding! You are shown some of the major buildings and inforned about their history in Chicago. A great experience!

  • Architecture Boat tour

    George S,

    Oct 14, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Very informative. Excellent way to see the history and get some of te history. price was reasonable, our guide was very knowledgeable. I highly recommend the tour

  • You need to do this tour!

    Gina B,

    Oct 14, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Make sure you use the restroom before 15 minutes of the tour being over because they lock the bathroom doors the last 15 minutes of the tour.

  • Must Do!!!

    Shelba P,

    Oct 14, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Our tour was very informative and interesting. Lots of info regarding the architecture in the city. Great way to familiarize yourself with Chicago.

From $56.00

4.93
5,256 reviews