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Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady

4,362 Reviews 4.94 out of 5 stars Based on 4,362 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 99% of reviewers | Chicago, USA

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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 14 (4.30) days in advance.

1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
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Overview

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.

What's Included

  • Restroom on board
  • Live commentary on board
  • River sightseeing cruise
  • Drinks & light snacks (available to purchase)
  • Storage for luggage
  • WiFi on board
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

East Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60601, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

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.
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1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Chicago Architecture Center (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.
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Navy Pier (Pass By)

From naval base and university campus to shipping hub and entertainment destination, Navy Pier is Chicago’s hallmark of adaptive reuse.
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Marina City (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.
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Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago (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.
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330 N Wabash Ave (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.
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150 N Riverside Plaza (Pass By)

Gravity-defying 150 North Riverside has already taken its rightful place among Chicago’s architectural and engineering wonders.
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100 N Riverside Plaza (Pass By)

View Boeing International Headquarters at 100 N Riverside Plaza.
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Willis Tower (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.
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Merchandise Mart (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.
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Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) (Pass By)

View the Chicago Mercantile Exchange Building, located at 20 S Wacker Drive.
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Tribune Publishing (Pass By)

Chicago Tribune Freedom Center.
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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • 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

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: Will I get seasick on Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady?

A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-41402P1

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.94
4,362 reviews

Average 4.94 out of 5 stars based on 4,356 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
4,192
4 stars
115
3 stars
24
2 stars
9
1 star
16

Loading Options
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 14 (4.30) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Restroom on board
  • Live commentary on board
  • River sightseeing cruise
  • Climate controlled lower level
  • Local guide (docents)
  • Drinks & light snacks (available to purchase)
  • Storage for luggage
  • WiFi on board

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • 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
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 250 travelers

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Non-refundable

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This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

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