Architecture Center Cruise on Chicago's First Lady
Chicago Loop, Chicago
Experience a Chicago River cruise partnered with the world-famous Chicago Architecture Center, featuring live English-speaking certified docents and pre-recorded multilingual commentary.
This is an architecture-focused cruise on the Chicago River, suitable for architecture enthusiasts and visitors interested in Chicago’s building history.
Highlights
- Marvel at different types of architecture along the Chicago River
- Enjoy unobstructed, 360-degree views from the open-air decks
- Commentary (in English) by a live Chicago Architecture Center docent
- Learn the stories of more than 50 buildings and 13 bascule bridges
- Add entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center for only $5
Description
Board the only cruise narrated by Chicago Architecture Center certified volunteer docents who share expert knowledge about the Chicago River’s architectural landscape. Cruise down all three branches of the river, observing styles from Art Deco to postmodernism through unobstructed, open-air, 360-degree views.
Enjoy guaranteed seating on the open-air upper decks and access to full-service cocktail and snack bars inside climate-controlled salons. Docents provide detailed stories about over 50 buildings, 13 bascule bridges, and the architects behind these structures.
You can choose to add general admission to the Chicago Architecture Center for an additional $5, a discounted rate compared to the usual $14 admission.
Includes
- Architecture cruise on the Chicago River
- Guaranteed seating on open-air upper decks
- Docents trained by the Chicago Architecture Center
- Discounted entry to the Chicago Architecture Center (optional)
Excludes
- Food and drinks (available for purchase onboard)
Important Information
- Tour departures frequently sell out; reserve your tickets in advance
- Cruises operate rain or shine with both open and covered seating available
- Drinks (water, soda, wine, beer) and snacks (chips, cookies, nuts) are available for purchase
- Late arrivals cannot be refunded
- A portion of ticket proceeds supports the Chicago Architecture Center’s educational mission
- Motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated; manual wheelchair transfer is available upon request
- There is no elevator access to the boat dock
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, book early to secure your preferred departure time. Bring weather-appropriate clothing, as much of the cruise is outdoors.
