Sightseeing Cruises

Official Chicago Architecture Cruise by First Lady

Name: Official Chicago Architecture Cruise by First Lady
Start: 2026-07-31T11:00:00
End: 2026-07-31T12:30:00
Location: First Lady

4.9/5(439)

Cynthia C

Couple

予約確認済み

2 週間前

The guide was so thorough - really enjoyed the way he explained the history of the area and how each building exemplified the architectural style of its day. He was animated and fun to listen to. On hot days, I recommend you tell people where to get drinks when they exit the boat. We went below the triple skyscrapers and walked through a park, up stairs, and for several blocks through tall buildings before getting to an area where there were cafes and stores.

Betsy D

Group

予約確認済み

2 週間前

The Chicago architectural Kruse was by far the best tour experience we've had in the city. I grew up in Chicago and yet now I feel I know my city in ways I never did before. Our tour guide Sonia was incredibly knowledgeable. It was a super super hot day and yet it did not stop her from sharing all the information she had with us. I will recommend this to everyone I know and I will take it again on a much cooler day hopefully thank you leading lady Kruse!

Reece D

Couple

予約確認済み

一昨日

My teenage daughter and I were looking for a way to spend the afternoon before the Cubs game. This was a great decision and we both had a phenomenal time. The cruise is short enough that you don't spend a whole afternoon, but long enough that you get interesting stories of what early Chicago would have looked like! I appreciate the volunteer led tour as it was apparent they have a passion for the city and it's history. Highly recommend

Sondra M

Group

予約確認済み

先週

The docent's narration during the cruise was unmatched! I'm 80-years-old and have lived in Chicago all of my life. I found the historical facts, humorous anecdotes, and architectural descriptions truly invaluable. I've taken the cruise several times over the years, and it's only gotten better. I'm encouraged even more to introduce relatives and friends to the cruise when they visit Chicago, as I've done in the past.

Jacinda H

Couple

予約確認済み

一昨日

The Chicago Architecture Cruise by First Lady was fascinating. Our docent was so knowledgeable about the history, engineering feats, and even some political reasons why and how these amazing skyscrapers were built. The "fun facts" were so intriguing. It is definitely worth your time. P.S. if you go on a sunny day, don't forget your sunscreen.....however if you do forget, they have some on-board to purchase!😉

Patricia C

Group

予約確認済み

3 日前

Brad was wonderful, detailed great communicator and thorough. It was a great to hear about the history of Chicago and the detailed information of the buildings... Job well done! The crew down below was pleasant and there was a well assortment of drinks and snacks. Peop could go down below deck and cool off and still hear and see the beautiful sites!

90-minute guided architecture river cruise

Live narration by Chicago Architecture Center docents

Covers all three branches of the river

Guaranteed open-air outdoor seating

Restrooms onboard

Free stroller storage

Limited mobility services

Food and beverages (available for purchase at the bar/snack bar)

Gratuities

Parking (discounted parking available with validation, but not included)

Transportation or hotel pickup

このチケットはキャンセルも変更もできません。

439 口コミ
口コミの収集方法
これらの評価には、ヘッドアウトのゲストと、この体験を現地で運営している信頼できるパートナーの両方からの検証済みの口コミが含まれています。すべての口コミは、実際にこの体験をした旅行者からのものです。
412
18
6
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Canada, United Kingdom, Brazil と20 以上の国からのゲストがこの体験を気に入っている。
お客様の声
Jeanne K
Couple
予約確認済み
2026年6月
This cruise was very fun and informative! I have been to Chicago many times, but have never done the Architecture cruise before. While I found many boats to choose from when researching, I selected First Lady because of it's affliliation with the Architecture Center, the great reviews , it's point of embarkation, and the fact that noone under the age of 12 was permitted on the ship. While I love kids, this is more of an adult venture in my opinion. Buying the tickets on line was easy and I downloaded the Headout app so that my tickets would pop right up on my phone when i needed them. When we arrived at the dock, there were many people to assist us. We needed to get physical tickets at the ticket window, but ther was no line. We selectred the first cruise of the day at 9:00 am as it looked the least busy and it was goiing to be a beautiful day. It was a wise choice! The docent was amazing. Her knowledge of the buildings, history and funny anctidotes was engaging. We got a seat on the top level for a great view of the river and buildings. The chairs are a metal and a bit uncomfortable to be in for 1.5 hours, but I had a sweatshirt along and sat on that. To my surprise, there were several young children on the boat, but they were well behaved and did not detract from our ability to hear the docent. Next time, I may choose a later afternoon time so that we can enjoy a beverage as we cruise!
Cristina A
Group
予約確認済み
3 週間前
Ammirare i palazzi dal fiume, comodamente seduti è stata una magnifica esperienza. La guida super appassionata e preparata ci ha coinvolti per l'intero viaggio. Unica nota, pur avendo acquistato online dovrete passare in biglietteria per ottenere i biglietti fisici necessari per salire a bordo.
William P
Couple
予約確認済み
3 週間前
Fantastic introduction to the architecturally marvelous city of Chicago. Our volunteer guide was friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommended this tour for anyone visiting Chicago for the first time.
Susan C
Group
予約確認済み
2 週間前
Very hot and sunny day yesterday but fantastic experience. Complimentary water helped us survive the weather. Bery professional staff and great knowledge of the city. Highly recommend First Lady.
Lisa S
Group
予約確認済み
3 週間前
It was so interesting! The captain was fantastic; the docent was fantastic. I would totally recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.

What to bring

A hat, sunglasses, or visor to shield you from the sun as you cruise.

Your booking confirmation, either on your phone or printed, for a smooth check-in.

A government-issued photo ID if staff request to verify your reservation.

What’s not allowed

Large suitcases or oversized bags; you’ll need to travel light.

Open strollers during boarding; please fold strollers and store them, and carry children aboard.

Outside food or beverages. Snacks and drinks are available to purchase on board.

Pets (service animals are welcome).

Any form of smoking, including e-cigarettes.

Accessibility

The cruise offers limited mobility services, including early boarding and river-level drop-off for guests with accessibility needs. However, full wheelchair accessibility may not be available on all vessels. Please contact the staff in advance for assistance.

Additional information

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure; general boarding starts 15 minutes prior.

Cruises run rain or shine; tickets cannot be refunded for no-shows.

Infants under three years old still require a paid ticket.

Open-air seating is guaranteed but unassigned; seating is first-come, first-served.

Enjoy discounted parking at 111 E. Wacker Drive; validation available at the ticket office (parking fees not included).

River routes may vary due to weather or city events.

A portion of every ticket sale supports the Chicago Architecture Center’s educational mission.

During major events or street closures, please allow extra travel time to reach the departure point.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Please arrive at the boarding point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

Boarding point

Board your cruise at First Lady.

Address: 112 E Wacker Dr, 60601 Cook County Chicago, US.

Get directions to the boarding point