Sightseeing Cruises

Official Chicago Architecture Cruise by First Lady

Name: Official Chicago Architecture Cruise by First Lady
Start: 2026-08-03T14:00:00
End: 2026-08-03T15:30:00
Location: First Lady

4.9/5(448)

Sandee W

Group

Verified booking

3 days ago

Our tour guide was excellent. Not only was she knowledgable about the architecture, she also was able to deliver the info in a very interesting and engaging way. It was one of the best tours I have ever been on. My only issue with the tour is that it wasn't made clear on the email with what I thought was the ticket turned out to be something I had to show to the ticket booth in order to receive paper tickets. My confusion led to my almost missing the boat.

Cynthia C

Couple

Verified booking

3 weeks ago

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

Verified booking

2 weeks ago

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

Verified booking

6 days ago

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

Verified booking

2 weeks ago

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

Verified booking

6 days ago

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!😉

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

TOTAL DURATION1 hour 30 minutes - 1 hour 30 minutes
FREQUENCYEvery 20-30 mins
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
1 Boarding point
112 E. Wacker Drive
Get direction
Sights covered
NBC Tower

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

448 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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Guests from Canada, United Kingdom, Brazil and over 22 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Jacinda H
Couple
Verified booking
6 days ago
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
Verified booking
Last week
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!
Cristina A
Group
Verified booking
Jul 2026
Admiring the buildings from the river while sitting comfortably was a wonderful experience. The guide, who was incredibly passionate and knowledgeable, kept us engaged throughout the entire trip. One thing to note: even though you purchased your tickets online, you’ll need to stop by the ticket office to pick up the physical tickets required to board.
Nikhil K
Couple
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
Absolutely amazing trip. After been to several ferry cruises I didn't expect much. Oh boy! this one was different, clean well managed, great historical narratives - my favorite to know the close is 6Feet tall (that is big)! Highly recommended!!
Susan M
Couple
Verified booking
6 days ago
The tour was very informational and personal. Our narrator was full of knowledge and entertaining. The check-in and getting in line service was welcoming and efficient. We will surely be recommending this tour to people who ask about our trip.

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