Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

2,872 Ratings

Chicago

Save

View All (10)

Explore Chicago’s architectural wonders on a 90-minute river cruise led by expert docents. Learn about historic and modern styles while supporting a non-profit organization.

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Highlights

Chicago River - The narrative of the Chicago River is ever-evolving. From its industrial roots to its roles in transportation, revitalization, and recreation, it has transformed alongside the city.
Chicago Architecture Center - Situated directly across Wacker Drive from the Chicago’s First Lady docks, the Chicago Architecture Center offers a discounted admission of $5 per person with a river cruise ticket.
Navy Pier - Evolving from a naval base and university campus to a shipping hub and entertainment venue, Navy Pier exemplifies Chicago’s hallmark of adaptive reuse.
Marina City - Architect Bertrand Goldberg’s vision for Marina City was an urban experiment aimed at attracting middle-class residents back to the city after a decade of suburban migration.
Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago - When docents explain that the Trump International Hotel & Tower mirrors its surroundings, they refer not only to its reflective glass and steel exterior.
330 N Wabash Ave - As one of the final American projects by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this striking Modernist building holds a significant position on the Chicago River.
150 N Riverside Plaza - The gravity-defying 150 North Riverside has already earned its place among Chicago’s architectural and engineering marvels.
100 N Riverside Plaza - Discover the Boeing International Headquarters at 100 N Riverside Plaza.
Willis Tower - Known formerly as the Sears Tower, the Willis Tower held the title of the world’s tallest building for nearly 25 years after its completion.
Merchandise Mart - Size has always been significant in the Midwest. Completed in 1930, it was the largest building globally and served as Marshall Field’s wholesale warehouse for retailers.
Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) - Explore the Chicago Mercantile Exchange Building at 20 S Wacker Drive.
Tribune Publishing - Visit the Chicago Tribune Freedom Center.

What's Included

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

What's Not Included

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

Additional Information

The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise on board Chicago’s First Lady stands out as the best among all tour experiences in Chicago, showcasing the unique architectural styles of the city under the guidance of skilled professional guides. During this 1.5-hour boat tour, you’ll get to know the variety of historic and contemporary architectural designs and the intriguing stories of the architects and builders of Chicago. As a recognized nonprofit organization, all the proceeds from ticket sales contribute directly towards educational and community outreach initiatives. Your trip to Chicago won’t be comprehensive without partaking in this award-winning tour, hence, don’t settle for less.

Children must be accompanied by an adult
Not recommended for children younger than 12 years
Routes, specific vessels, and schedules are subject to change without notice
All seating is General Admission. Boarding is on a first come, first serve basis
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Pets are not allowed
WARNING: Tickets are not refundable or transferrable to other departures.
IMPORTANT: Most, but not all, departures are wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required
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.
IMPORTANT: There is no elevator access to the boat dock.

Location

112 E Wacker Dr

East Wacker Drive

On Chicago's Riverwalk at Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive. Please use 112 E. Wacker for GPS navigation. Look for our blue awning at street level on the southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at Wacker Drive.

Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings

4.9

(2872 Ratings)

5 stars

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Millai2023

Aug 13, 2024

Architecture boat tour in Chicago - John I. was the best tour guide!!! He was so entertaining and explained everything really well. We had a great experience thanks to him.