Duration
Guided tour
4.9/5
(45)
Tiffany
Yizhou
Amy
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Glide along all three branches on a 90-minute architecture cruise led by Chicago Architecture Center docents, who share insider stories of the city’s iconic skyline and riverside landmarks.
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Guaranteed open-air seating ensures uninterrupted views of historic skyscrapers, modern marvels, and architectural treasures while your volunteer guide brings each structure’s narrative to life.
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Enjoy onboard comforts; restrooms, free stroller storage, and dedicated accessibility services, while treating yourself to craft beverages and tasty bites available at the full-service bar and snack station.
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Rain-or-shine departures mean you’ll witness Chicago’s architectural beauty in every season, and discounted nearby parking makes it easy to arrive and embark on your adventure stress-free.
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A portion of your ticket supports the educational work of the Chicago Architecture Center.
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90-minute guided architecture river cruise
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Live narration by Chicago Architecture Center docents
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Covers all three branches of the river
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Guaranteed open-air outdoor seating
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Full-service bar and snack bar access
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Restrooms onboard
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Free stroller storage
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Limited mobility services
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Food and drinks (available for purchase at the bar/snack bar)
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Tips/gratuities
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Parking (discounted parking available with validation, but not included)
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Transportation or hotel pickup
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Optional upgrades such as Priority Boarding Tickets (includes early boarding and CAC admission)
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Infant tickets for children under 3 years
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- TOTAL DURATION90 minutes - 90 minutesFREQUENCYEvery 20-30 minsMODE OF TRANSFERBoat
1 Boarding point
Sights covered
NBC Tower
Trump International Hotel and Tower
Civic Opera House
Chicago Mercantile Exchange
Wrigley Building
Tribune Tower
DuSable Bridge
Marina City
333 Wacker Drive
Willis Tower
Aon Center
875 North Michigan Avenue
Aqua Tower
Lake Point Tower
Merchandise Mart
Lyric Opera
Carbide & Carbon Building
Chicago Board of Trade
Navy Pier
Adler Planeterium
La Salle Street Bridge
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- 45 reviews4.9
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.
414000Guests from Canada, Poland, Philippines and over 6 countries have loved this experienceWhat our guests say
Yizhou
Nov 2025Verified booking5/5Terry
Nov 2025Verified booking5/5
Ian
Nov 2025Verified booking5/5
Kurt
Nov 2025Verified booking4/5
Ricardo
Oct 2025Verified booking5/5
Cruise all three branches of the Chicago River on a 90-minute architecture tour led by expert Chicago Architecture Center docents.
Getting started:
Arrive at the First Lady dock near the Chicago Architecture Center at least 30 minutes before departure for ticket validation and boarding. After a brief introduction, settle into your guaranteed open-air seat as your docent guide outlines the cruise route and key safety details.
What to expect:
First Lady’s Chicago Architecture Boat Tour
This acclaimed sightseeing cruise, partnered with the Chicago Architecture Center, offers an in-depth look at the city’s renowned architectural legacy. Experience the stories behind Chicago’s iconic skyline as you travel the full length of the river.
Features:
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Live narration by CAC docents: Knowledgeable volunteer guides share the history, styles, and personalities that shaped Chicago’s skyline, offering insights not found in guidebooks.
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All three river branches: The route covers the Main, North, and South branches, providing a comprehensive view of the city’s most significant buildings and bridges.
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Open-air upper deck seating: Enjoy unobstructed sightlines of architectural highlights from the comfort of the open-air upper deck, with climate-controlled interior salons available.
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Onboard amenities: Access a full-service bar and snack bar, well-appointed restrooms, free stroller storage, and services for guests with limited mobility.
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Support for education: A portion of each ticket supports the educational work of the Chicago Architecture Center.
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What to bring:
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A hat, sunglasses, or visor to shield you from the sun as you cruise.
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Your booking confirmation; either on your phone or printed for a smooth check-in.
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A government-issued photo ID if staff request to verify your reservation.
What’s not allowed:
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Large suitcases or oversized bags; you’ll need to travel light.
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Open strollers during boarding; please fold strollers and store them, and carry children aboard.
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Outside food or beverages; snacks and drinks are available to purchase onboard.
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Pets (service animals are welcome).
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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 staff in advance for assistance. Please reach out ahead of time so we can make arrangements.
Additional information:
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Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure; general boarding starts 15 minutes prior.
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Cruises run rain or shine; tickets cannot be refunded for no-shows.
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Infants under three years old still require a paid ticket.
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Open-air seating is guaranteed but unassigned; seating is first come, first served.
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Well-maintained restrooms are onboard.
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Enjoy discounted parking at 111 E. Wacker Drive; validation available at the ticket office (parking fees not included).
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River routes may vary due to weather or city events.
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A portion of every ticket sale supports the Chicago Architecture Center’s educational mission.
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During major events or street closures, please allow extra travel time to reach the departure point.
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Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
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Please arrive at the boarding point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.
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Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.
Boarding point
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Board your cruise at First Lady.
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Address: 112 E Wacker Dr, 60601 Cook County Chicago, US.
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