Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard 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.

1. 1

   Chicago River

   1.5 hours

   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.

2. 2

   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.

3. 3

   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.

4. 4

   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.

5. 5

   Stop 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.

6. 6

   Stop 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.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   Pass by

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

8. 8

   Stop 8

   Pass by

   View Boeing International Headquarters at 100 N Riverside Plaza.

9. 9

   Stop 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.

10. 10

    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.

11. 11

    Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME)

    Pass by

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

12. 12

    Stop 12

    Pass by

    Chicago Tribune Freedom Center.

• 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

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