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
0All 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
4.95,921 reviews
5
5,683
4
148
3
45
2
12
1
33
Do this tour!
An essential tour for everyone visiting Chicago (or even locals who want to learn more about Chicago architecture). On a warm day, our sun hats were perfect for sitting upstairs for the entire tour. Wonderful guide with so much great information. Highly, highly recommended!!!
Kathy_KMay 25, 2026VIATOR
Must do for architectural enthusiasts!
Amazing architecture tour with a ton of details! Enjoyed every part of it. Boarding was smooth and we were able to follow all the details. Kudos to all the volunteers running this!
Culture37844057488May 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Wonderful experience for all ages
From the start of when I came on the boat the captain was great the guide gave me so much interesting information about the architectural design and even history of the city I love how the guide did include some humorous details but let us all appreciate the academic aspect of the architectural design and explains all of this wonderful design in a compact time of only 90 minutes advise to family friends and anyone really!
nyctraveler514May 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Interesting Tour of the City
This architecture tour in the river was the perfect addition to our long weekend in the city. Tour guide Mark was enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and engaging for the entire 90 minute trip. Recommend the 6:30 tour for sunset city views. Arrive early for best seats.
Z9808HTgracetMay 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR
An excellent tour!
Dick was an incredible guide! He was so knowledgeable and made the history really interesting. We felt engaged the whole time and learned a lot. We’d recommend this tour for anyone visiting Chicago!
rachelkC3410XKMay 25, 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