Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady

Image 1
Image 2
Image 3
Image 4
Image 5
Image 6
Image 7
Image 8
Image 9
Image 10

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 minutesAdmission 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

4,303 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

4117
113
38
9
26
  • Learned so much

    Diane G,

    Jul 24, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Don’t miss it! Our guide was incredibly knowledgable about the architecture and history of Chicago. Exactly what I hoped for - except it was very very hot. I needed to go downstairs in the air conditioned area for a bit because I was roasting on deck.

  • Very informative

    Raphael Z,

    Jul 24, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Guide was great. Interesting and fun. Boat was pleasant. Staff was helpful and friendly. Xxxxxxxxxxxxx

  • No easy access for...

    Michael G,

    Jul 23, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    No easy access for handicapped, even though Viator said wheelchair accessible. Lots of steps. Trip was excellent and informative.

  • Recommend First Lady Boat Ride

    Peter N,

    Jul 23, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Extremely informative and interesting boat ride through Chicago. The views are fantastic and the volunteer docents are great. We had Liz from the Chicago Architecture Center.

  • Informative experience

    Sabine R,

    Jul 23, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Had a very informative and wonderful time. The guide was especially good. The crew were very welcoming.

From USD 56

4.93
4,303 reviews