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.

Itinerary

Start Point

On Chicago's Riverwalk at Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive. Please use 112 E. Wacker for…

Stop 1

The story of the Chicago River is one that continues to unfold. Through periods of…

Stop 2

The Chicago Architecture Center is directly across Wacker Drive from the Chicago's First Lady docks.…

Stop 3

From naval base and university campus to shipping hub and entertainment destination, Navy Pier is…

Stop 4

When architect Bertrand Goldberg envisioned Marina City, it was an urban experiment designed to draw…

Stop 5

When our docents explain that the Trump International Hotel & Tower reflects its surroundings, they…

Stop 6

One of the last American projects designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this powerful…

Stop 7

Gravity-defying 150 North Riverside has already taken its rightful place among Chicago’s architectural and engineering…

Stop 8

View Boeing International Headquarters at 100 N Riverside Plaza.

Stop 9

For nearly 25 years after its completion, the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears…

Stop 10

Size has always mattered in the Midwest. Upon its completion in 1930, it was the…

Stop 11

View the Chicago Mercantile Exchange Building, located at 20 S Wacker Drive.

Stop 12

Chicago Tribune Freedom Center.

End Point

On Chicago's Riverwalk at Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive. Please use 112 E. Wacker for…

What’s included

Local guide (docents)
Restroom on board
Live commentary on board
River sightseeing cruise
Climate controlled lower level

Not Included

Drinks & light snacks (available to purchase)
Storage for luggage
WiFi on board

Additional 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

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Cancellation Window	Refund Eligibility
Any time before start time	Non-refundable (0%)

This experience may be cancelled due to bad weather.

Important Information

• Please arrive 30 minutes in advance of your departure time to redeem your ticket at the dockside box office and queue-up for boarding. Every passenger must have a ticket in hand for boarding.
• Your tickets will be held at the dockside box office for collection on the day of the tour up to ten minutes prior to cruise departure time. You will be required to present this voucher, along with photo ID in exchange for your ticket(s).
• Not recommended for children under 12

For safety reasons, motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated aboard the ship. Guests who can transfer may use the activity provider's manual wheelchair based on the availability.

Age Policy

Infant: 0–3 years · Adult: 4–99 years

Specification: Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady

Duration	1.5 Hours
Ticket Type	Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group Size	Up to 250 travelers
Confirmation	Instant Confirmation
Language	English
Time of Day	Daytime
Tour Type	Shared