Chicago Architecture Cruise: Unforgettable Views by First Lady
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.
Reviews
Reviews and Rating (Tripadvisor)
5 stars
2 stars
Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers
558athenat, 10/30/2025 10:16:52 PM
Our tour guide John was fantastic. A great way to see the city at twilight and into the night seeing the skyline of Chicago. The air was brisk and the informative cruise was an awesome way to end a long day at a convention. A must-do for visitors to this beautiful city.
karlamacdonald, 10/30/2025 5:56:09 PM
We joined the 2PM Old Lady Architecture River Tour and had a wonderful experience from start to finish! Booking in and collecting our tickets was quick, easy and completely straightforward — a great start to the afternoon. We’d done a bit of research beforehand and it was just a few minutes’ stroll from our hotel (The InterContinental on the Golden Mile), which made it all the more convenient. Our tour guide, Peter, was absolutely fantastic — knowledgeable, engaging and clearly passionate about the city’s history and architecture. He brought each landmark to life with fascinating stories and little details that made the experience feel truly special. Thank you for the warm welcome to your beautiful city! We left the tour both entertained and informed — a perfect combination. Highly recommended! A+++++
edwardrF6160ZM, 10/30/2025 5:12:10 PM
Peter was a fantastic guide, we learned so much and the views are amazing! So many cool stories that we would never have known otherwise.
Q428ZHpeterm, 10/30/2025 4:41:00 PM
Excellent cruise - the guide was fantastic, the duration was about right, and we learned a great deal not only about the architecture of central Chicago but also about the history of the city. Well worth doing. And a relaxing ride.
StaceyTPC, 10/30/2025 11:00:55 AM
What a lovely 90 min. To see all the amazing buildings from the water was such a cool experience. Sylvia was the best docent! Highly recommend.
cbgb3197, 10/30/2025 9:40:20 AM
When I visit my son in Chicago, we always take the architecture tour. It is my favorite thing to do in Chicago! Every tour is a little different and gives you a beautiful view of the city, history of the city and its architecture.
L1107XZkylet, 10/30/2025 8:49:23 AM
My partner and I boarded the First Lady for an evening architecture tour of the inner city (downtown) with Steve as our tour guide, we were in great hands. Such a magical experience to behold. Exceptionally educational whilst also catering to the romance of the evening. I urge anyone to take up the experience and bask in the beauty Chicago has to offer. We had other couples as well as groups on our tour. I found the experience suitable for all. Steve himself is extremely knowledgeable and exceptionally welcoming. I myself am from England, my partner American. We both enjoyed the experience as much as the other!
Gordon_M, 10/29/2025 8:16:25 PM
Excellent tour of Chicago. Fantastic experience!! Mark was very knowledgeable and entertaining to listen to. Very friendly and organized staff. Boat was spotless and comfortable. Recommend the evening tour.
Jamie_S, 10/29/2025 4:10:36 PM
The boat was very spacious and comfortable. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and we walked away learning a lot about the city. 90 minutes went very fast. Some wonderful views
John_W, 10/29/2025 11:15:20 AM
Viator is not actually the tour company, but an agent selling tickets. It is not clear that what you get on your phone will not get you on the boat. You have to go stand online to get an actual ticket, which can make you nervous when the clock is ticking. The tour itself was great!
- 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
Departure point
On Chicago's Riverwalk at Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive. Please use 112 E. Wacker for GPS navigation. Look for our black awning at street level on the southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at Wacker Drive.Return details
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.Redemption
• 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.Less than hours before travel date - 0% refund