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.
Options
Architectural River Cruise
What's included in Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Chicago River
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.
Chicago Architecture CenterPass-by Only
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.
Navy PierPass-by Only
From naval base and university campus to shipping hub and entertainment destination, Navy Pier is Chicago’s hallmark of adaptive reuse.
Inclusions
- Local guide (docents)
- Restroom on board
- Live commentary on board
- River sightseeing cruise
- Climate controlled lower level
- Drinks & light snacks (available to purchase)
- Storage for luggage
- WiFi on board
- 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
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- 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.
- WARNING: Tickets are not refundable or transferrable to other departures.
- Pets are not allowed
- IMPORTANT: There is no elevator access to the boat dock.
- IMPORTANT: Most, but not all, departures are wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required
- All seating is General Admission. Boarding is on a first come, first serve basis
- Routes, specific vessels, and schedules are subject to change without notice
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- On Chicago's Riverwalk at Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive. Please use 112 E. Wacker for GPS navigation. Look for our black awning at street level on the southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at Wacker Drive.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
• Please arrive 30 minutes in advance of your departure time to redeem your ticket at the dockside box office and queue-up for boarding. Every passenger must have a ticket in hand for boarding. • Your tickets will be held at the dockside box office for collection on the day of the tour up to ten minutes prior to cruise departure time. You will be required to present this voucher, along with photo ID in exchange for your ticket(s). • Not recommended for children under 12 For safety reasons, motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated aboard the ship. Guests who can transfer may use the activity provider's manual wheelchair based on the availability.