Magpie
4.9(6,317 reviews)

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise

From$57
1h 30m
Chicago, USA

About this activity

Experience Chicago's iconic architecture on a 90-minute guided river cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady, narrated by certified local docents.

Highlights

  • Explore Chicago's iconic architecture
  • Learn from certified local docents
  • Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady boat
  • See landmarks like Willis Tower and John Hancock Center
  • Enjoy a 90-minute narrated river tour

Full description

Set sail on a captivating 90-minute river cruise that unveils Chicago's architectural masterpieces. Aboard the elegant Chicago's First Lady boat, you'll be guided by certified local docents who bring the city's rich history to life. Glide past iconic structures like the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center, and gain insights into the stories behind these architectural marvels. This tour offers a unique perspective of Chicago's skyline, blending education with breathtaking views. Perfect for architecture enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, this cruise provides an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Windy City.

Included / Excluded

  • 90-minute guided river cruise
  • Expert narration by certified docent
  • Access to Chicago's First Lady boat
  • Food and beverages

Itinerary

1

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.

Duration: 1h 30mAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

Pass by: 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
3

Pass by: From naval base and university campus to shipping hub and entertainment destination, Navy Pier is Chicago’s hallmark of adaptive reuse.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

Pass by: When architect Bertrand Goldberg envisioned Marina City, it was an urban experiment designed to draw middle-class Chicagoans back to the city after more than a decade of suburban migration.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

Pass by: When our docents explain that the Trump International Hotel & Tower reflects its surroundings, they aren’t only referring to its shiny glass and steel exterior.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Pass by: One of the last American projects designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this powerful Modernist structure occupies a prominent place on the Chicago River.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

Pass by: Gravity-defying 150 North Riverside has already taken its rightful place among Chicago’s architectural and engineering wonders.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8

Pass by: View Boeing International Headquarters at 100 N Riverside Plaza.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
9

Pass by: For nearly 25 years after its completion, the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, held the title of tallest building in the world.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
10

Pass by: Size has always mattered in the Midwest. Upon its completion in 1930, it was the largest building in the world and served as Marshall Field’s wholesale warehouse, where retailers could buy stock.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
11

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

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
12

Pass by: Chicago Tribune Freedom Center.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • Cruise operates rain or shine
  • Food and beverages are available for purchase onboard
  • Wheelchair accessible

Know before you go

  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure
  • Dress appropriately for the weather conditions
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views

Cancellation policy

0

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

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • 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

Traveler reviews

4.9
6,317 reviews
5
6,057
4
158
3
47
2
16
1
39

Must Do

It was lovely ride but couldn't hear anything on the boat. It's a must see. Book it early morning or After 5pm would recommend

Miliard SJul 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR

The Original and BITB (best in the business)

Great cruise. Highlight of our trip to Chicago. Bill was a fantastic docent.

dvdclrsnJul 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR

High informative and interesting. Appeals across the board to young and older adults.

Miriam was our guide for the tour. My teenage son and I both loved the detailed information while directly referencing very visible features of buildings. She provided a lot of local context about chicago's history that lined up with the decisions behind the structure of each building which was awesome.

k_califJul 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Loved it!

I was really impressed and fascinated with the facts, and they clearly connected to make the story about the progress of the city during the past, present, and future. When talking about the buildings it was easy to find the right one because of the outstanding details said and seen. To make it perfect I would try to make an introduction about the city in all. But, all in all, I would give this the full five stars.

U4694SSdariamJul 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Great for architecture enthusiasts

Great tour for architecture enthusiasts! The guide was fantastic. We learned a little history and saw many notable buildings. The boat was comfortable and provided good views for everyone.

H4540SOsarahlJul 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

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
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